Corporate Sponsorship Blurbs-Templates For Success

Corporate Sponsorship Blurbs: Templates For Success

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In the competitive landscape of nonprofit fundraising, relying solely on individual donations is rarely enough to sustain long-term growth. To truly scale operations and maximize impact, organizations must look toward the business sector. Corporate sponsorships are a powerful revenue stream, yet many nonprofits struggle to articulate their needs effectively to potential partners. Whether you are seeking financial contributions through corporate grants or tangible resources via in-kind giving, the way you frame your request can make the difference between a polite rejection and a transformative partnership.

Corporate sponsorship blurbs are pre-written, strategic messages designed to open doors. By integrating these persuasive templates into your website, emails, and social media channels, you can clearly communicate the mutual benefits of partnering with your organization. Corporate sponsorships are not just about charity; they are strategic business partnerships. They offer a unique exchange of value where nonprofits gain essential resources and companies achieve marketing visibility, brand enhancement, or employee engagement goals. Despite these clear benefits, many opportunities are lost simply because the “ask” is not clear or compelling.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

By utilizing these templates, you can professionalize your outreach and position your nonprofit as a valuable partner to the business community.

The Strategic Value of Corporate Partnerships

Before utilizing these blurbs, it is essential to understand what you are asking for and why it matters to your potential partners. Corporate sponsorships generally fall into two categories: corporate grants and in-kind giving. Corporate grants are financial contributions made by businesses to nonprofit organizations that do not require repayment. In-kind giving refers to the donation of goods, services, or resources—instead of cash—to support a nonprofit’s mission.

For nonprofits, the benefits are clear. These partnerships provide increased resources to support programs, staff, and infrastructure. Beyond cash, they offer access to expertise, tools, and technology through in-kind donations that might otherwise be unaffordable. Furthermore, partnering with well-known brands enhances your organization’s credibility and visibility within the community.

However, the value proposition must be mutual. Companies benefit significantly from these relationships as well. Sponsorships enhance brand reputation and public goodwill, which can lead to increased customer loyalty among socially conscious consumers. They also strengthen employee engagement and retention, as employees value working for companies that support causes they care about. When you use the blurbs below, remember that you are offering a solution to a company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) goals, not just asking for a handout.

Did You Know? Corporate grants and in-kind giving create a powerful “win-win-win” scenario. Nonprofits gain resources; companies strengthen their social impact; and the ultimate beneficiaries (the communities served) receive better access to essential services like healthcare, education, and food security.

Website Blurbs: Your Partnership Hub

Your website is often the first place a potential corporate partner will look to verify your legitimacy and impact. It is crucial to have a dedicated presence that outlines exactly how businesses can get involved. Integrating corporate sponsorship blurbs into your site signals that you are open for business and ready to collaborate.

The “Partner With Us” Page

Create a dedicated landing page for corporate engagement. This page should serve as a menu of opportunities, detailing both grant needs and in-kind wish lists.

Template 1: The General Partnership Hook

Header: Become a Corporate Champion for [Cause]

Body: Does your company want to make a tangible difference in our community? We invite you to partner with [Nonprofit Name] through our Corporate Sponsorship Program. Whether through financial grants to fund our [Specific Program] or in-kind donations of [Specific Goods/Services], your support drives our mission forward.

Value Proposition: In return, our partners receive brand recognition, employee volunteer opportunities, and the knowledge that they are building a better future.

Call to Action: Contact our corporate relations team today to discuss a custom partnership package.

Template 2: The In-Kind Specific Appeal

Header: Turn Your Surplus into Social Good

Body: Your business has resources that can change lives. [Nonprofit Name] accepts in-kind donations of goods and services that help us keep our overhead low and our impact high. We are currently seeking [List 3-4 specific items, e.g., office furniture, consulting services, event space].

Call to Action: Have resources to share? Click here to fill out our In-Kind Donation Form.

Event Sponsorship Pages

If you host galas, 5Ks, or conferences, these are prime opportunities for sponsorship. Use these blurbs to highlight the marketing value of the event.

Template 3: The Event Visibility Pitch

Header: Sponsor the [Event Name]

Body: Align your brand with [Nonprofit Name] at our annual [Event Name]. This event attracts over [Number] community leaders and supporters. As a corporate sponsor, your company will receive logo placement, VIP tickets, and shout-outs during the program. It is the perfect way to demonstrate your commitment to [Cause] while reaching a dedicated local audience.

Call to Action: View our Sponsorship Tiers.

Quick Tip: Use a corporate giving database on your website to help visitors identify opportunities. Double the Donation’s database includes information on corporate grant opportunities, in-kind donation initiatives, and matching gift programs, creating a centralized resource for all types of corporate support.

Email Blurbs: Direct Outreach

Email allows for targeted, personalized communication. Whether you are reaching out to a local business owner or asking a board member to make an introduction, having a script ready ensures your message is professional and persuasive.

The Warm Introduction (Via a Donor/Board Member)

Your existing supporters are your best advocates. Provide them with this blurb to send to their employer on your behalf.

Template 4: The Internal Champion Script

Subject: Partnership opportunity with [Nonprofit Name]

Body: Hi [Manager/CSR Contact Name], I have been a proud supporter of [Nonprofit Name] for [Number] years. I know that [Company Name] is committed to supporting our local community, and I see a great alignment between our values and their mission to [Mission Statement]. They are currently seeking corporate partners for their upcoming [Project/Event]. I believe a partnership could offer us great visibility while making a real impact. Would you be open to a brief introduction to their development director?

Action: Let me know, and I can connect you via email.

The Cold Inquiry (Local Business)

When reaching out to a new potential partner, keep it concise and focused on alignment.

Template 5: The Value-Add Pitch

Subject: Partnership idea for [Company Name] and [Nonprofit Name]

Body: Dear [Contact Name], I am writing to you from [Nonprofit Name]. We have long admired [Company Name]’s commitment to [Specific Value, e.g., sustainability/education] in our community. Coming soon, we are launching a new initiative to [Project Goal], and we believe [Company Name] would be the ideal partner. We are seeking [Grant/In-Kind Request] to help us launch. In exchange, we would love to highlight your generosity to our [Number] newsletter subscribers and social media followers.

Call to Action: Do you have 10 minutes next week to discuss how we can collaborate?

The Stewardship Follow-Up

Once a sponsor has committed, keeping them engaged is vital for renewal.

Template 6: The Impact Update

Subject: Look what we achieved together!

Body: Dear [Sponsor Name], Thanks to your generous [Grant/In-Kind Donation], we were able to [Specific Achievement, e.g., serve 500 meals]. We could not have done this without [Company Name]’s support. To express our gratitude, we have attached a few photos of your team/products in action. We are proud to count you as a partner.

Action: Look out for our annual report next month for a special feature on your contribution!

Social Media Blurbs: Public Call-Outs

Social media is excellent for raising general awareness and publicly recognizing current sponsors to attract new ones. These platforms allow you to showcase the “fun” side of partnership.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is the most effective channel for B2B engagement. Use this platform to speak directly to CSR directors and business leaders with whom you would like to partner.

Template 7: The CSR Appeal

“Is your company looking to expand its Corporate Social Responsibility impact? 🤝 [Nonprofit Name] partners with forward-thinking businesses to solve [Problem]. Whether through grants or in-kind services, your support changes lives. Let’s build a partnership that works for you and our community. DM us to learn more! #CSR #CorporateGiving #SocialImpact”

Template 8: The Sponsor Spotlight

“A huge thank you to [Company Name] for their recent grant supporting our [Program Name]! 🌟 Their investment allows us to help [Number] more families this year. We are grateful for partners who lead with their values. Interested in joining our corporate circle? Visit [Link].”

Twitter/X & Instagram

Use visuals and short, punchy copy to grab attention on these leading social media platforms. It can be a great way to increase awareness of sponsorship opportunities and get more potential partners involved!

Template 9: The In-Kind Wishlist

“We are looking for a few good partners! 📦 [Nonprofit Name] is in need of [Item 1] and [Item 2] for our upcoming drive. Does your business have surplus inventory or resources to share? It’s a tax-deductible way to do good! DM us to coordinate. 🚛 #InKindDonation #CommunitySupport”

Template 10: The Event Teaser

“Only 2 sponsorship spots left for our Spring Gala! 🎟️ Get your brand in front of [Number] local leaders and support a great cause. Don’t miss out on this prime visibility. Secure your spot today: [Link].”

Registration and Form Blurbs

Don’t miss the opportunity to capture corporate connections during event registration or volunteer sign-ups. Adding a simple question can reveal high-value prospects.

Event Registration Forms

Template 11: The Connection Query

Field Label: Employer / Company Name

Help Text: Does your company offer corporate grants or sponsorship programs?

Volunteer Intake Forms

Template 12: The Resource Check

Header: Skills & Resources

Body: Beyond your time, does your employer offer in-kind donations of goods or professional services (e.g., printing, legal, catering)?

Quick Tip: Prioritize companies where you already have a connection. Your current donors and volunteers are your best entry points. If a supporter works at a target company, use the “Internal Champion” email template above to help navigate the corporate hierarchy.

Best Practices for Implementing These Blurbs

Writing the copy is the first step, but deployment strategy is key. To maximize your success with corporate sponsorship blurbs, keep these best practices in mind.

1. Prioritize Mission Alignment

Don’t send proposals to every company in the phone book. Research businesses that have a strong presence in your community or support causes similar to your own. Use your blurbs to highlight this alignment. For example, if you are an environmental group pitching an outdoor retailer, emphasize your shared commitment to conservation.

2. Be Specific

Vague requests often get ignored. Especially for in-kind requests, be specific about quantities, delivery needs, and timing. Instead of asking for “help,” ask for “20 laptops for our computer lab” or “catering for 50 people.”

3. Demonstrate Impact

Companies view grants and sponsorships as investments. Use your blurbs to show them the return on that investment. Clear and concise language with measurable goals and outcomes shows how the partnership will benefit the community and reflect positively on the sponsor.

4. Leverage Technology

Use database tools to research potential partners before you reach out. A corporate giving database can tell you if a company offers cash grants, product donations, or both, as well as their application deadlines and eligibility requirements. This ensures you are pitching the right company with the right ask.

Wrapping Up & Next Steps

Integrating corporate sponsorship blurbs into your communications strategy is a high-leverage activity. By clearly articulating your needs and the benefits of partnership, you move beyond “begging” and into business development. Whether it is a grant that funds a new program or an in-kind donation of office space that lowers your overhead, these partnerships are vital for sustainable growth.

Start by adding a “Partner with Us” page to your website using the templates above. Then, segment your donor list to identify individuals who work for major local employers and send them the advocacy email script. Small steps in communication can lead to giant leaps in funding.

Ready to uncover more corporate giving opportunities? Request a demo of Double the Donation to see how our tools can help you identify matching gifts, volunteer grants, and corporate sponsorship prospects today.

How to Write the Best Corporate Sponsorship Requests

How to Write the Best Corporate Sponsorship Requests

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Corporate sponsorships are often the “white whale” of nonprofit fundraising: highly sought after, incredibly valuable, but sometimes elusive to secure. For many organizations, a single sponsorship can underwrite an entire event, fund a new community program, or provide the essential technology needed to scale operations. However, treating corporate partners like ATMs (or simply hoping a business will notice your good work) is rarely a winning strategy. Success requires navigating Corporate Sponsorship Requests with intention, professionalism, and a clear value proposition.

Unlike individual donations, which are often driven by emotion and altruism, corporate sponsorships are business transactions rooted in mutual benefit. Companies want to know what they get in return, whether it is brand visibility, access to new audiences, or alignment with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) goals. To unlock this revenue stream, nonprofits must move beyond passive fundraising and adopt a proactive, step-by-step approach to identifying, pitching, and stewarding corporate partners.

In this guide, we will cover:

By mastering the technical and relational steps of Corporate Sponsorship Requests, your organization can build a sustainable pipeline of support that goes far beyond a one-time check. It is time to stop guessing and start executing a strategy that turns local businesses and major corporations into your most reliable allies.

The Strategic Value of Corporate Sponsorships

Before diving into the logistics of the process, it is vital to understand what distinguishes a sponsorship from other forms of giving. While corporate grants are typically philanthropic gifts restricted to specific programs or general operating support, sponsorships are often marketing agreements. The company provides funding or in-kind resources, and in exchange, the nonprofit provides marketing assets: logos on event signage, shout-outs on social media, or speaking opportunities.

This distinction is important because it opens up different budgets within a company. A grant might come from the corporate foundation, but a sponsorship often comes from the marketing or advertising budget. This allows nonprofits to tap into varied revenue streams. Furthermore, securing in-kind sponsorships (such as technology, office supplies, or event space) can significantly reduce overhead costs, allowing more cash revenue to flow directly to your mission.

Did You Know? Corporate giving is experiencing a massive surge. In 2024, corporate giving grew by an impressive 9.1%, reaching a total of $44.4 billion. This growth signals that businesses are more ready than ever to invest in nonprofit partnerships that align with their values and business goals.

Step 1: Prospecting and Identifying the Right Partners

The process begins with research. A “spray and pray” approach—sending generic letters to every company in the phone book—is inefficient and rarely effective. To maximize your success rate with Corporate Sponsorship Requests, you must identify prospects whose business goals and brand values align with your mission.

Leveraging Local and Mission Alignment

Start by looking at your immediate community. Companies with a strong presence in your service area are often the most motivated to support local causes because it builds goodwill with their specific customer base. Additionally, look for mission alignment. For example, a local hospital system is a natural fit for a health-focused nonprofit, while a tech firm might be interested in sponsoring STEM education programs.

Analyzing Your Existing Network

Your best prospects are often already in your orbit. Analyze your donor database to see where your current supporters work. If a board member or a major donor is an executive at a local firm, you have a warm introduction that bypasses the cold call phase. Prioritize companies where you already have a connection, such as current donors’, volunteers’, or board members’ employers, to significantly increase your chances of success.

Determining the Type of Support

During the prospecting phase, determine what kind of support you actually need. Are you looking for cash to fund an event? Or could in-kind donations be equally valuable? Many companies have specific programs for product donations, such as Big Lots, which donates overstock furniture and household items, or Crayola, which provides art supplies to educational organizations. Knowing exactly what you need helps you target the right companies.

Step 2: Crafting and Submitting the Proposal

Once you have a list of targets, the next phase is the “ask.” This is where you formally request support. Depending on the company size, this might involve an online application portal or a bespoke sponsorship proposal document.

Large corporations often manage their giving through structured online portals. For instance, companies like Coca-Cola or Bank of America have specific systems where nonprofits must register and submit requests. In these scenarios, it is critical to follow the guidelines precisely. You will likely need to provide your organization’s IRS 501(c)(3) letter, a program budget, and a clear description of how the funds will be used.

Writing a Winning Proposal

For companies without rigid portals, or when seeking higher-level event sponsorships, you will need to craft a proposal. This document should be tailored to the company’s interests, not just your needs.

A strong proposal includes:

  • The Opportunity: Clearly define the event or program.
  • Audience Demographics: Tell the sponsor who they will reach (e.g., “Our gala is attended by 500 local business leaders”).
  • Deliverables: Be specific about what the sponsor gets. Will their logo be on the website? Will they get a booth at the event?.
  • Impact: Show how their partnership will make a tangible difference in the community.

Quick Tip: When crafting Corporate Sponsorship Requests, clarity is king. Ensure your proposal includes measurable goals and outcomes. Companies want to see a return on investment (ROI), whether that is measured in social impact or brand impressions.

Step 3: The Corporate Review and Follow-Up Phase

After you hit “submit,” the process enters the review phase. For the nonprofit, this is often the “waiting game,” but it shouldn’t be a passive period. The timeline for approval can vary wildly; some companies review requests on a rolling basis, while others have quarterly or annual cycles.

Tracking Your Applications

Organization is essential here. Create a tracking system or spreadsheet to monitor your submission dates, key contacts at the company, and expected notification timelines. If you applied through a portal, check your status regularly. If you emailed a proposal, mark your calendar for a follow-up.

The Art of the Follow-Up

If you haven’t heard back within the expected window (typically 2-3 weeks for smaller requests, longer for major grants), it is appropriate to send a polite follow-up. Keep it brief and professional. Reiterate your excitement about the potential partnership and offer to provide any additional information they might need.

This persistence demonstrates professionalism. Even if the answer is “no,” how you handle the rejection matters. Always ask for feedback on your proposal and thank them for considering your organization. This keeps the door open for future opportunities.

Step 4: Securing Funds and Delivering ROI

Congratulations! The sponsor said “yes.” Now the process moves into the fulfillment and stewardship phase. This is arguably the most critical step because it determines whether the sponsor will renew their support next year.

Formalizing the Agreement

Upon approval, you may need to sign a sponsorship agreement or contract. This document outlines the payment schedule (or delivery date for in-kind goods) and the specific marketing benefits you promised. Ensure you have the vector files of their logos and any specific brand guidelines they require for your marketing materials.

Delivering on Promises (Fulfillment)

If you promised the sponsor a logo on the event banner, ensure it is there. If you promised social media posts, schedule them. This is the “transactional” part of the relationship where you deliver the marketing value the company paid for.

Stewardship and Reporting

After the event or program concludes, don’t just send a receipt. Send a comprehensive impact report. Did the event sell out? How many people saw their logo? If it was a programmatic grant, share specific metrics on how many people were helped. Acknowledge the gift promptly with a formal thank-you letter, and look for public ways to celebrate the partnership.

Did You Know? In-kind giving can be a gateway to cash sponsorships. Companies like Marriott provide food and beverage donations or meeting space, while tech giants like Cisco offer hardware and software. Establishing a relationship through an in-kind gift allows you to prove your value as a partner, making it easier to ask for financial support later.

One of the biggest hurdles in Corporate Sponsorship Requests is simply knowing who gives to what. Manually scouring corporate “About Us” pages is time-consuming and inefficient. This is where technology bridges the gap.

Comprehensive corporate giving databases, like the one offered by Double the Donation, aggregate data on thousands of companies. These tools allow nonprofits to search for companies based on specific criteria, instantly revealing:

  • Which companies offer matching gift programs.
  • Details on corporate grant opportunities and application links.
  • Information on in-kind donation initiatives.
  • Employee volunteer incentives.

By using a centralized database, your team can skip the hours of research and go straight to the application phase. For example, a quick search might reveal that Bank of America offers grants for workforce development, or that Home Depot has a specific portal for community product donations. Accessing accurate, up-to-date guidelines and forms ensures you never waste time applying to a company that doesn’t fund your type of mission.

Measuring the Success of Your Sponsorship Strategy

To refine your process, you must treat it like any other business strategy: track, analyze, and optimize. It is not enough to just count the dollars raised; you need to understand the cost of acquisition and the retention rate of your partners.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Consider tracking the following metrics to gauge the health of your sponsorship program:

  • Total Revenue: The aggregate cash and in-kind value generated.
  • Conversion Rate: The percentage of proposals submitted that result in a sponsorship. If this is low, you may need to refine your prospecting or your pitch.
  • Retention Rate: How many sponsors come back year over year? High retention indicates you are delivering good ROI.
  • Fulfillment Cost: How much time and money did it take to deliver the sponsorship benefits (e.g., printing banners, hosting VIP receptions)?
  • In-Kind Value: Don’t ignore non-cash gifts. Track the estimated market value of donated goods and services.

Regularly reviewing these figures helps you identify trends. Perhaps you have great success with local banks but struggle with national retailers. Or maybe your in-kind donations are high, but cash revenue is lagging. Use this data to adjust your efforts and focus resources on the highest-yield activities.

Wrapping Up & Next Steps

The Corporate Sponsorship Requests process is a journey of relationship building, strategic alignment, and professional execution. It transforms the way nonprofits view funding, shifting the perspective from “charity” to “partnership.” By rigorously identifying the right prospects, crafting value-driven proposals, and delivering on your promises, you elevate your organization’s standing in the business community.

While the process requires upfront effort—researching guidelines, writing proposals, and managing deliverables—the payoff is substantial. Corporate partners provide the stability, resources, and visibility that allow nonprofits to dream bigger and reach further.

Ready to supercharge your corporate fundraising?

  • Audit your assets: What can you offer a sponsor? (Event visibility, social media reach, volunteer opportunities).
  • Build your list: Use tools like Double the Donation to identify companies with established giving programs.
  • Start small: Pitch a local business on a small in-kind donation to build your confidence and portfolio.

Don’t leave corporate money on the table. Start actively managing your sponsorship pipeline today and watch your mission grow. Plus, see how solutions like Double the Donation’s corporate giving database can help!

Engaging Payroll Givers on Giving Tuesday-A Nonprofit Guide

Engaging Payroll Givers on Giving Tuesday: A Nonprofit Guide

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Giving Tuesday is widely recognized as the single most powerful day in the philanthropic calendar. For twenty-four hours, the world turns its attention to generosity, resulting in a massive influx of donations, social media buzz, and volunteer sign-ups. For many nonprofits, this day provides a critical injection of cash that helps close out the annual budget. However, there is a hidden opportunity within this frenzy that often goes overlooked. While securing one-time cash gifts is essential, engaging payroll givers on Giving Tuesday can transform a single day of generosity into a sustainable year-round revenue stream.

The challenge with Giving Tuesday is often the “sugar crash” that follows the initial rush. Donors give once and then disengage until the next holiday season. By shifting your strategy to focus on payroll giving (a mechanism in which employees donate a portion of their paycheck to your nonprofit automatically), you can turn that momentary enthusiasm into a long-term commitment. Payroll giving is one of the most underutilized forms of corporate philanthropy, yet it offers unmatched retention rates and financial predictability.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

By implementing these strategies, you can use the visibility of Giving Tuesday not just to hit a daily fundraising goal, but to build a foundation of recurring revenue that supports your mission all year long.

The Strategic Value of Payroll Giving on Giving Tuesday

To effectively advocate for this funding stream, you must first understand why it is worth prioritizing during your busiest time of year. Payroll giving allows employees to donate to registered nonprofits directly from their salary, often on a pre-tax basis. This method transforms a donor’s relationship with your organization from transactional to relational.

  • Predictable, Recurring Income: While Giving Tuesday donations are often sporadic one-time gifts, payroll giving ensures a steady cash flow. This predictability improves financial planning and program continuity, allowing your nonprofit to rely on a consistent baseline of support rather than crossing your fingers for a successful holiday campaign.
  • Higher Donor Retention: One of the most compelling reasons to focus on engaging payroll givers on Giving Tuesday is retention. Payroll donors tend to donate longer than one-time or online givers. Because the deduction happens automatically and often pre-tax, the donor effectively “doesn’t miss” the money, making them less likely to cancel the recurring gift during belt-tightening periods.
  • Lower Administrative Overhead: Processing thousands of individual credit card transactions on Giving Tuesday incurs significant fees and administrative work. In contrast, payroll donations are managed through platforms or employers, reducing time and costs for your team. This efficiency allows you to direct more of the raised funds toward your actual mission.

Did You Know? Payroll giving offers a unique “win-win-win” scenario. Nonprofits gain lower administrative overhead and sustainable income; donors enjoy tax-efficient, effortless giving; and employers boost their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) profile and employee engagement.

Strategy 1: The “Set It and Forget It” Pitch

Giving Tuesday falls during a chaotic time of year. Between holiday shopping, end-of-year work deadlines, and family obligations, donors are often looking for simplicity. You can leverage this desire for convenience to pitch payroll giving.

Positioning Automation as a Benefit: Market payroll giving as the ultimate time-saver. Explain that by setting up a payroll deduction now, they can support their favorite cause all year long without having to remember to write a check or enter credit card information again.
Key Message: “Make your Giving Tuesday impact last 365 days. Sign up for payroll giving today and support us automatically with every paycheck.”

The “Budget-Friendly” Angle: Small, regular deductions are easier for donors to manage than large one-off gifts. A donor might hesitate to give $250 on Giving Tuesday, but they might happily agree to a $10 deduction per paycheck. Over a year, that small deduction adds up to $260—a higher total value with less financial strain on the donor.

Strategy 2: Leveraging the Year-End Tax Incentive

Giving Tuesday is perfectly timed to capitalize on year-end tax planning. Donors are looking for ways to maximize their charitable deductions before December 31st.

Educating on Pre-Tax Benefits: Payroll donations are often deducted from the employee’s salary before tax is calculated. This means that a donation costs the employee less in real terms than a standard post-tax donation.
Example: A $100 donation might only reduce their take-home pay by $70 (depending on their tax bracket), yet the nonprofit receives the full $100.

The “Give More for Less” Message: Use this tax efficiency as a core part of your Giving Tuesday messaging. “Did you know you can give more to [Nonprofit Name] without it costing you more? Payroll giving allows you to donate pre-tax, amplifying your impact instantly”.

Strategy 3: The Corporate Match Multiplier

Giving Tuesday is synonymous with matching challenges. Many nonprofits secure a matching grant from a major donor for the day. You can apply this same excitement to payroll giving by highlighting corporate matching gift programs.

Double the Recurring Impact: Many companies match payroll gifts, doubling the value of contributions. This is a powerful incentive. If a donor signs up for a $20 monthly deduction, and their employer matches it, they are effectively generating $480 a year for your cause.

Promoting the “Double Match”: If you have a Giving Tuesday match secured, ask your sponsor if it can apply to the annualized value of new payroll sign-ups.
Pitch: “Sign up for payroll giving today! Our Giving Tuesday sponsor will match your first year of donations, AND your employer might match them too. That’s a triple impact!”

Quick Tip: Use a matching gift search tool on your dedicated Giving Tuesday landing page. This allows donors to instantly check if their employer offers payroll giving or matching gifts, removing the guesswork and driving immediate action.

Strategy 4: Streamlining the Enrollment Process

The biggest barrier to engaging payroll givers on Giving Tuesday is friction. If the process is confusing, donors will abandon it for a simple one-time credit card donation. You must make enrollment as seamless as possible.

  • Provide Direct Links: Many companies manage their payroll giving through third-party platforms like Benevity, Blackbaud, or CyberGrants. Wherever possible, provide direct links to your organization’s profile within these portals.
  • Create a “How-To” Guide: Create a simple, downloadable PDF or a dedicated web page that walks donors through the enrollment process for major local employers. List the steps clearly: Log in to your HR portal > Select “Charitable Giving” > Search for [Nonprofit Name] > Enter your deduction amount > Click Submit.
  • Capture Data Upfront: Include an optional “Employer” field on your Giving Tuesday donation forms. This allows you to screen your donors using employer appends and identify those who work for companies with payroll giving programs. You can then send targeted follow-up emails with specific instructions for their company.

Templates for Giving Tuesday Outreach

To help you execute these strategies, here are ready-to-use templates designed to convert Giving Tuesday excitement into payroll giving enrollment.

Website Blurb: The Landing Page Hook

Header: Make Your Giving Tuesday Last All Year
Body: Thank you for visiting us this Giving Tuesday! You have the power to make a difference that lasts beyond today. By signing up for payroll giving, you can support our mission automatically with every paycheck. It is tax-efficient, budget-friendly, and often matched by employers.
Call to Action: Check if your employer offers payroll giving and sign up in minutes! [Insert Search Widget]

Email Template: The Morning Appeal

Subject: Don’t just give today; give forever (automatically!)
Body:

Dear [Donor Name],

Happy Giving Tuesday! Today, millions of people are coming together to support the causes they love. We are so grateful you are part of our community. This year, we are inviting you to make a different kind of gift. Instead of a one-time donation, consider signing up for payroll giving. It allows you to donate a small amount from each paycheck, providing us with the steady support we need to plan for the future.

Payroll giving is…

  • Easy: No credit cards to update.
  • Smart: Donations are often pre-tax.
  • Powerful: Small gifts add up to massive impact.

Check your eligibility here: [Link to Double the Donation Search Tool]
Thank you for helping us build a sustainable future.

Social Media Post: The “Set and Forget”

“Happy #GivingTuesday! 💙 Want to support [Nonprofit Name] without having to remember to donate? Sign up for payroll giving! 💼 It’s the set-it-and-forget-it way to change the world. 🌍 Check if your company participates: [Link] #PayrollGiving #SustainableImpact”

Social Media Post: The Tax Tip

“Did you know payroll giving can lower your taxes? 📉 By donating directly from your paycheck, you often give pre-tax dollars, making your donation go further for you AND us. 💸 Make the smart move this #GivingTuesday. [Link] #TaxTips #CorporateGiving”

Best Practices for Retaining Payroll Givers

Once you have successfully engaged payroll givers on Giving Tuesday, the work isn’t over. You must steward these donors to ensure they remain enrolled.

  • The “Invisible Donor” Acknowledgement: Because payroll deductions happen automatically, donors often forget they are giving. Combat this by sending a specialized welcome series immediately after they sign up. Acknowledge the unique nature of their gift and thank them for becoming a sustaining partner.
  • Regular Impact Reporting: Since these donors don’t receive a monthly transaction receipt, you must proactively remind them of their impact. Send quarterly updates specifically for payroll donors. Show them exactly what their sustained support is achieving, such as “Your payroll gifts funded 500 meals this quarter”.
  • Milestone Recognition: Recognize the longevity of their support. When a donor hits their one-year anniversary of payroll giving, celebrate it. “Happy Anniversary! You have been supporting us through your paycheck for one year. Thank you for sticking with us.” This recognition reinforces their decision and reduces churn.

Quick Tip: Implement a “Corporate Champion” program. Encourage your new payroll donors to share their Giving Tuesday decision with colleagues. Peer validation is a powerful tool for driving further enrollment within a specific company.

Wrapping Up & Next Steps

Engaging payroll givers on Giving Tuesday is a strategic move that pays dividends long after the holiday season ends. By shifting your focus from one-time transactions to recurring payroll deductions, you build a foundation of financial stability that allows your nonprofit to dream bigger and plan further ahead.

To get started, audit your Giving Tuesday campaign materials. Are you mentioning payroll giving? Do you have a search tool available for donors to check their eligibility? By integrating these messages and tools, you can turn the year’s biggest giving day into a catalyst for sustainable growth.

Ready to take your corporate fundraising to the next level? Request a demo with Double the Donation to see how our automation tools can help you identify eligible donors, promote payroll giving, and maximize your revenue with minimal effort.

Advocating For A Payroll Giving Program-A Donor’s Guide

Advocating For A Payroll Giving Program: A Donor’s Guide

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Securing sustainable, recurring revenue is the ultimate goal for any development team, yet many organizations overlook one of the most effective channels available. Advocating for a payroll giving program is a powerful strategy that connects your nonprofit with corporate partners and their employees for long-term impact. While matching gifts often steal the spotlight in corporate philanthropy, payroll giving offers a unique advantage by allowing employees to deduct donations directly from their paychecks, often on a pre-tax basis.

This method provides your organization with a steady stream of unrestricted funds while helping companies boost employee engagement and social responsibility. Despite its clear benefits, many companies have not yet implemented these programs, or employees remain unaware of their existence. This creates a prime opportunity for your nonprofit to step in, educate, and advocate for the adoption of these high-value initiatives.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

Success in corporate fundraising requires more than just asking for donations; it requires building partnerships and infrastructure. By understanding the mechanics and benefits of payroll giving, you can position your nonprofit as a strategic partner to businesses looking to enhance their community impact.

The Untapped Potential of Payroll Giving

Before you can effectively advocate for a program, you must deeply understand its value proposition. Payroll giving is not merely a transaction; it is a gateway to predictable, recurring income and higher donor retention rates. Unlike one-time donations that require constant re-solicitation, payroll deductions are “set and forget” mechanisms that turn one-time donors into lifetime supporters.

The statistics surrounding this fundraising channel are compelling. Currently, more than $173 million is donated through payroll giving each year, with over 6 million U.S. employees contributing. However, the potential is far greater. Approximately 18% of individuals qualify for payroll giving through their employers, yet many programs remain underutilized due to a lack of awareness or promotion.

Did You Know? Payroll donors are incredibly valuable to your long-term growth. These donors tend to retain at higher rates than one-time givers because the automated nature of the deduction removes the friction of manual payments. This creates a steady cash flow that improves your ability to plan financially and maintain program continuity.

For the donor, the benefits are equally significant. Payroll giving is often tax-efficient, as donations are deducted pre-tax, meaning a larger portion of their income goes directly to the cause. It also allows donors to make smaller, budget-friendly contributions from each paycheck that add up to a significant annual gift, making philanthropy accessible to employees at all income levels.

Why Companies Should Adopt Payroll Giving

When advocating for a payroll giving program, you are essentially pitching a business solution to corporate leaders. You must articulate how this program benefits them, not just your nonprofit. Companies are increasingly looking for ways to differentiate their brands and appeal to employees who prioritize social impact.

  • Enhancing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): A robust payroll giving program demonstrates values-driven leadership to customers, partners, and investors. It is a tangible expression of a company’s commitment to the community. By facilitating employee giving, companies can align their brand with positive social change, which enhances their reputation and public goodwill.
  • Attracting and Retaining Top Talent: The modern workforce, particularly Gen Z and millennial employees, demands more than just a paycheck; they want to work for employers that support their values. Offering a seamless way to give back boosts employee morale and fosters a sense of shared purpose and team spirit within the workplace.
  • Streamlining Administrative Efforts: One of the strongest selling points for corporate leadership is efficiency. Payroll giving programs reduce the administrative burden of processing individual donations and can simplify the administration of matching gift programs when tied to automated platforms. By partnering with a nonprofit or a workplace giving platform, the employer can automate much of the process, making it a low-lift, high-reward initiative.

Identifying the Right Corporate Partners

Not every company is ready to implement a full-scale payroll giving program immediately. To maximize your advocacy efforts, you must identify businesses that are primed for partnership. Start by researching businesses that have a strong presence in your community or service area, as local ties often drive corporate giving decisions.

Look for companies that already support causes similar to your own or have established other forms of corporate philanthropy, such as volunteer grants or matching gifts. A company that already offers a matching gift program is statistically more likely to be open to payroll giving because it has already invested in the concept of employee-led philanthropy.

You can locate these opportunities by reviewing company websites and CSR reports, or by utilizing resources like LinkedIn and local business directories. Additionally, leveraging a corporate giving database can streamline this research by providing detailed information on existing programs.

Quick Tip: Prioritize companies where you already have a connection. Your current donors, volunteers, and board members are your best entry points. If a donor already works at a target company, they can serve as an internal champion to help navigate the corporate hierarchy and advocate for the program from the inside.

Empowering Donors to Advocate from Within

Your donors are your most powerful advocates. Employees have a direct line to HR and CSR departments and can demonstrate internal demand for a payroll giving program. You can empower them to advocate for a payroll giving program by providing them with the necessary tools and language.

  • Educate Your Supporters: Many donors may not realize that they can ask their employer to start a giving program. Use your communication channels to educate them on the benefits of payroll giving and how it amplifies their impact. Explain that this method allows for automatic support that helps your organization plan ahead.
  • Provide Advocacy Templates: Remove the barrier to action by providing email templates or scripts that donors can send to their HR departments. These scripts should highlight employee interest in supporting the nonprofit and request a meeting to discuss implementing a payroll giving structure.
  • Leverage Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): Many companies have employee-led committees focused on community impact or CSR. Payroll donors are often the ones sitting on these committees. Encourage your supporters to bring the idea of payroll giving to these groups. After all, a proposal coming from an organized internal body carries more weight than a request from a single individual.

Structuring Your Pitch to Corporate Leadership

Let’s say you have the opportunity to pitch a payroll giving program directly to corporate leadership. In that case, your presentation should be professional, data-driven, and focused on mutual benefit. Here’s what we recommend:

  • Demonstrate Impact: Don’t just ask for support; show how the partnership will benefit both parties. Use impact stories and data to illustrate how funds raised through payroll giving will be used to solve specific community problems. Companies want to know that their efforts will lead to measurable results.
  • Highlight Ease of Implementation: A major hesitation for companies is the perceived administrative burden. Be prepared to explain how modern payroll giving platforms and software make the process seamless. Explain that the employer enrolls in a scheme, employees opt in voluntarily, donations are deducted pre-tax, and funds are transferred automatically. Emphasize that the “heavy lifting” is handled by the platform, minimizing the workload for their HR team.
  • Showcase Peer Success: Companies are competitive. Showcasing examples of other businesses in their industry or region that have successfully implemented workplace giving programs can be a powerful motivator. Highlight top employers with standout programs to show that payroll giving is a standard best practice for leading companies.

Overcoming Common Objections

Even with a strong pitch, you may encounter resistance. Being prepared to debunk common misconceptions is crucial for successful advocacy.

Objection: “We are too small for a program like this.”
Response: Workplace giving programs are available to organizations of all shapes, sizes, and sectors. Small businesses can implement simple payroll deduction processes without the need for enterprise-level software. In fact, offering these benefits can help small businesses compete for talent against larger corporations.

Objection: “It requires too much administrative work.”
Response: While managing workplace giving requires some effort, software solutions streamline the process significantly. Matching gift management tools and corporate volunteer platforms simplify tracking and processing. This makes it easier than ever to maximize opportunities without overburdening teams. Automation features allow teams to drive engagement without manual intervention.

Objection: “Our employees aren’t interested.”
Response: Research shows that 61% of organizations reported increased participation in employee volunteerism in the last few years. Furthermore, 49% of individuals state that work commitments are their biggest obstacle to volunteering. This suggests that workplace-integrated solutions are exactly what employees need to get involved.

Marketing the Program Once Established

Advocating for the creation of the program is only the first step. Once a company agrees to implement payroll giving, you must actively market it to ensure participation. A clear, compelling marketing strategy is the foundation of your success.

  • Establish a Dedicated Web Page: Create a dedicated payroll giving page on your website to educate donors and explain the benefits. This page should include step-by-step instructions on how to enroll, FAQs, and impact stories from current payroll donors.
  • Integrate Into Email Outreach: Email remains one of the most effective channels for donor communication. Weave payroll giving calls-to-action into your regular email flows, newsletters, and fundraising campaigns. Segment your lists to target past donors or volunteers who are already engaged with your organization.
  • Utilize Social Media: Social media is an ideal channel for raising awareness and normalizing payroll giving as part of everyday generosity. Use short, educational posts, stories, and testimonials to explain what payroll giving is and how to sign up. Tag partner companies in employer spotlights to extend your reach and showcase the collaboration.

Quick Tip: Offer incentives to drive initial enrollment. People are more likely to take action when there is a clear reward. Consider offering welcome gifts like stickers or digital badges, or provide exclusive access to donor-only events and webinars for those who sign up for payroll giving.

Measuring Success and Next Steps

To ensure the longevity of the program, you must track its performance and demonstrate value to your corporate partner. Effective payroll giving programs are monitored, analyzed, and refined over time.

  • Track Key Metrics: Establish a baseline and monitor key metrics such as the number of active payroll donors, the total revenue from payroll giving, and the donor retention rate year over year. Tracking these indicators helps you assess both the financial value and the engagement strength of the program.
  • Share Data with Partners: Regularly report these metrics back to your corporate partner. Show them how many of their employees are participating and the tangible impact their collective donations are achieving. This transparency builds trust and encourages the company to continue promoting the program internally.
  • Expand the Partnership: Payroll giving often marks the beginning of a donor’s workplace engagement journey. Once established, use this foundation to advocate for broader corporate sponsorship opportunities. Payroll donors can serve as a bridge to matching gifts, volunteer grants, and even event sponsorships.

Advocacy in Action: Free Template to Aid in Advocating for a Payroll Giving Program

To make it as easy as possible for your supporters to advocate on your behalf, provide them with a “copy-and-paste” template they can customize and send to their Human Resources or CSR department. This lowers the barrier to entry and ensures the pitch includes the key benefits of workplace giving.

Feel free to host this template on your “Ways to Give” page or include it in your next donor newsletter:

Subject: Proposal: Enhancing our Employee Benefits with Payroll Giving

Dear [Name of HR Director or CSR Lead],

I am proud to work for a company that values community engagement and social responsibility. As we look for ways to strengthen our culture and support our local community, I wanted to suggest implementing a Payroll Giving program.

I am a passionate supporter of [Nonprofit Name], an organization dedicated to [Brief Mission Statement]. I would love the opportunity to support their work directly through a recurring payroll deduction. Many of my colleagues have also expressed interest in easier ways to give back to the causes they care about.

Why Payroll Giving?

  • Employee Satisfaction: It empowers us to support our favorite charities effortlessly, boosting morale and pride in our workplace.
  • Tax Efficiency: Donations are often deducted pre-tax, allowing our contributions to go further.
  • Ease of Administration: Modern platforms make it simple to set up and manage, minimizing the workload for the HR team.

I would appreciate the chance to discuss this further or connect you with the team at [Nonprofit Name] to learn how other companies in our industry are structuring these programs.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to deepen our company’s impact.

Best regards,

[Employee Name]
[Job Title]

Wrapping Up & Next Steps

Advocating for a payroll giving program is a strategic investment in your nonprofit’s future. By securing these programs, you create a reliable revenue stream, deepen relationships with corporate partners, and reduce the administrative lift associated with other forms of fundraising. It transforms passive support into active, consistent engagement, allowing your mission to grow with every paycheck.

To get started, assess your readiness, research potential corporate partners using a corporate giving database, and equip your donors with the tools they need to advocate on your behalf. With a structured plan and persistent advocacy, you can unlock the full potential of corporate philanthropy.

Ready to take your corporate fundraising strategy to the next level? Request a demo with Double the Donation to see how our tools can help you identify and maximize payroll giving and matching gift opportunities.

Payroll Giving Letters-Templates to Grow Recurring Funds

Payroll Giving Letters: Templates to Grow Recurring Funds

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In the nonprofit world, monthly recurring donors are gold. They provide the predictable, sustainable cash flow that allows organizations to plan for the future with confidence rather than constantly scrambling to fill budget gaps. While many nonprofits focus heavily on credit card subscriptions to build this sustainers program, there is a more stable, tax-efficient, and often overlooked avenue: payroll giving. This mechanism allows supporters to donate directly from their paychecks, often pre-tax, turning sporadic donors into lifelong partners. The key to unlocking this revenue stream? Strategic payroll giving letters.

Many of your supporters would likely embrace the convenience and tax benefits of payroll giving if they only knew it was an option. However, these programs are often buried in corporate HR portals or employee handbooks, unbeknownst to the donor. By incorporating specific payroll giving letters into your communication strategy, you can educate your donors, guide them through the enrollment process, and secure a baseline of funding that grows automatically with every pay period.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

Whether you are looking to convert a loyal annual donor into a monthly payroll giver or trying to acquire new support from a corporate partner’s workforce, this guide provides the tools and templates you need to succeed.

The Strategic Value of Payroll Giving Communications

Before sending out appeals, it is crucial to understand why payroll giving is worth the specific communication effort. Payroll giving (also known as workplace giving) is a method that allows employees to donate to charities directly from their salaries.

For nonprofits, the benefits are transformative. Payroll giving provides a steady, predictable income stream that improves financial planning and program continuity. Furthermore, payroll donors typically have higher retention rates than credit card donors because the donation is integrated into their employment; it doesn’t expire when a credit card date passes, and it doesn’t require monthly action from the donor.

For donors, the benefits are equally compelling. Donations are often deducted pre-tax, meaning the donor receives an immediate tax benefit, and the “cost” of the donation feels lower while the nonprofit receives the full value. It is effortless, budget-friendly, and convenient.

Despite these “win-win” dynamics, participation often lags due to a lack of awareness. Employees simply do not know their company offers the program or how to access it. Your payroll giving letters serve as the bridge, informing supporters of this benefit and providing the specific instructions they need to enroll.

Did You Know? Payroll giving is a gateway to even greater support. Many companies that offer payroll deductions also offer matching gift programs. When an employee sets up a recurring payroll donation, they are often perfectly positioned to activate a matching gift, potentially doubling the impact of every paycheck contribution automatically.

The Anatomy of a Perfect Payroll Giving Appeal

Asking a donor to change how they give requires a clear value proposition. You are asking them to log into a corporate portal and make a financial decision. To ensure your payroll giving letters are effective, they must be structured to highlight convenience and impact.

Every effective letter or email should contain the following elements:

  1. The “Why” (Impact): Start by reminding the donor of the work their money supports. Connect the reliability of payroll giving to the reliability of your services. For example, “Just as our community relies on us every day, we rely on steady funding to keep our doors open.”
  2. The “How” (Convenience & Tax Benefits): Explain the mechanism simply. Highlight that it comes out of their paycheck automatically and mention the pre-tax benefit. This is a major selling point—they can give more for less cost to their take-home pay.
  3. The “Cheat Sheet”: To enroll in a payroll giving scheme, employees usually need specific details about your nonprofit to find you in their CSR platform (like Benevity, YourCause, or CyberGrants). Include a sidebar or section with:
    • Your organization’s legal name
    • Your EIN/Tax ID number
    • A keyword to search in their portal
  4. A Direct Call to Action (CTA): Don’t just ask them to “consider” it. Ask them to “Login to your employee portal today” or “Ask your HR representative for the enrollment form.”

Scenario 1: The Existing Donor (Conversion)

Your best prospects for payroll giving are people who already support you. They trust your mission, but may be giving sporadically via credit card. Use this template to convert them into consistent, automated sustainers.

Subject: A smarter way to support [Nonprofit Name]

Dear [Donor Name],

Thank you for your continued generosity. Because of supporters like you, we have been able to [mention a recent impact/accomplishment].

We know you care deeply about our mission, and we wanted to share a way to make your support even more impactful—while potentially lowering your own taxes.

Have you considered Payroll Giving? By setting up a recurring donation directly from your paycheck, you provide the steady, reliable funding we need to plan for the future. Plus, because these donations are often deducted pre-tax, you may be able to give more while lowering your taxable income.

It is the ultimate “set it and forget it” way to make a difference.

How to switch: Check your employer’s HR or charity portal (like Benevity or CyberGrants) to see if they offer a workplace giving program. Search for us using the info below:

  • Organization: [Legal Name]
  • Tax ID (EIN): [00-0000000]

If you set up a payroll deduction, please let us know so we can update our records and thank you properly!

Sincerely,

[Signature]

Quick Tip: If you have a donor who gives $100 once a year, frame the payroll ask as “$5 per paycheck.” It feels like a smaller amount to the donor, but results in $120 or more annually for you.

Scenario 2: The Known Eligible Individual

If your data indicates a donor works for a company with a known payroll giving program (e.g., the federal government, Microsoft, or companies using platforms like Benevity), you can send a highly specific appeal.

Subject: Maximize your impact through [Employer Name]

Dear [Donor Name],

Thank you for being a champion for [Nonprofit Name]. We are writing because our records indicate you work for [Employer Name].

Did you know that [Employer Name] offers a robust Payroll Giving program? This allows you to support the causes you care about directly through automatic payroll deductions. It is one of the most efficient ways to give, ensuring 100% of your donation goes to work immediately.

Why give through [Employer Name]?

  • Convenience: No credit cards to update or checks to write.
  • Tax Efficiency: Donations are often deducted pre-tax.
  • Matching: [Employer Name] may match your payroll contributions, doubling your impact automatically!

Next Steps:

  1. Log in to your employee giving portal.
  2. Search for [Nonprofit Name] (EIN: [00-0000000]).
  3. Select a recurring amount that works for your budget.

Thank you for leveraging your workplace benefits to power our mission!

Sincerely,

[Signature]

Scenario 3: The Unknown Eligibility Individual

For most of your database, you may not know their employer. This letter serves as a discovery tool, educating them on the concept and encouraging them to investigate their own benefits. This can also help you uncover employer appends data for future segmentation.

Subject: Does your employer make giving easy?

Dear [Supporter Name],

We are constantly amazed by the dedication of our community. Today, we wanted to highlight a way you might be able to support [Nonprofit Name] that is easy, budget-friendly, and impactful.

Many companies allow employees to donate to their favorite charities directly from their paychecks. It is a simple way to break a large annual gift into small, manageable contributions deducted each pay period.

Does your company participate? We encourage you to check your employee handbook or ask your HR department if a “Payroll Giving” or “Workplace Giving” scheme is available.

If it is, you can usually find us by searching for:

  • Name: [Legal Name]
  • Tax ID: [00-0000000]

If you decide to enroll, please drop us a quick reply so we can say thank you!

With gratitude,

[Signature]

Scenario 4: The Prospective Donor (Acquisition)

When reaching out to new audiences (perhaps through a corporate lunch-and-learn or a volunteer event), focusing on payroll giving can lower the barrier to entry.

Subject: Join us for just a few dollars a paycheck

Dear [Name],

It was great meeting you at [Event/Context]. We hope you felt inspired by the work [Nonprofit Name] is doing to [Mission Statement].

We know that budgets can be tight, but making a difference doesn’t require a large check. Through Payroll Giving, you can support our work for the cost of a cup of coffee per paycheck.

Small gifts add up to big change. By authorizing a small deduction from each paycheck, you join a community of sustainers who keep our programs running year-round. It is effortless, tax-smart, and deeply appreciated.

Ready to join us? Check your company’s giving portal today to see if you can select [Nonprofit Name] as your charity of choice.

Together, we can achieve [Goal].

Sincerely,

[Signature]

Scenario 5: The Advocacy Letter (Ineligible Individuals)

If a supporter wants to give via payroll but their company doesn’t offer a program, empower them to be an advocate. This template is for them to send to their own HR department.

Subject: A suggestion for our employee benefits

Dear [Supporter Name],

Thank you for your interest in supporting [Nonprofit Name] through payroll giving! We are sorry to hear your employer doesn’t currently offer this program, but your voice could change that.

Many companies launch workplace giving programs because employees ask for them. If you are willing, feel free to share this note with your HR team:

Hi [HR Contact],

I am a proud supporter of [Nonprofit Name] and was looking for a way to contribute through payroll deduction. I know many companies offer Workplace Giving programs to support employee philanthropy and boost engagement.

Would [Company Name] consider implementing a payroll giving platform? It would mean a lot to my colleagues and me to have a simple, company-sanctioned way to support our community.

Thanks, [Employee Name]

Thank you for advocating for us!

Sincerely,

[Signature]

Best Practices for Sending Payroll Giving Emails

Writing the letter is just the first step. To maximize the impact of your payroll giving letters, consider these strategic best practices regarding timing and targeting.

1. Leverage Key Timing Windows

There are specific times of year when employees are already thinking about benefits and financial planning.

  • Open Enrollment (Fall): When employees are selecting health insurance and benefits, they are already logged into HR portals. This is the perfect time to remind them about payroll giving.
  • New Year (January): “New Year, New Goals.” Encourage supporters to make a resolution to give back.
  • Tax Season (April): Remind donors that payroll giving can simplify their tax prep by consolidating charitable deductions on their W-2.
  • New Hire Onboarding: If you have corporate partners, ask them to include a flyer about your nonprofit in their new-hire packets.

2. Segmentation is Key

Don’t blast the same message to everyone. Segment your list by:

  • Gift Size: Donors giving small amounts ($10-$25) are great candidates for payroll giving because it breaks the gift down even further, making it feel negligible to their budget while providing you with consistent revenue.
  • Employment: Use employer appends to identify which donors work for companies with known giving platforms like Benevity. Send them the “Known Eligible” template with specific instructions for that platform.

3. Integrate with Matching Gifts

Always mention matching gifts in your payroll giving appeals. Many corporate portals allow employees to request a match at the same time they set up their payroll deduction. This “set it and forget it” synergy is the holy grail of corporate fundraising.

4. Automate the Process

Just like with matching gifts, you can use technology to streamline this. Tools like Double the Donation help donors identify if their company offers workplace giving programs. By integrating a search tool on your website, you can capture this intent and trigger automated emails with the right templates based on the donor’s employer.

Wrapping Up & Next Steps

Payroll giving letters are a low-cost, high-reward tool to modernize your fundraising. They move donors away from sporadic, transactional giving and toward a relationship defined by consistency and ease. By guiding your supporters through the administrative hurdles of their corporate portals, you unlock a stream of unrestricted revenue that arrives like clockwork.

Ready to grow your recurring revenue?

  • Audit your website: Create a dedicated “Workplace Giving” page with your Tax ID and simple instructions.
  • Check your data: Identify which donors work for major employers in your region.
  • Send the emails: Use the templates above to launch a targeted campaign during your next newsletter cycle.

Don’t let the administrative nature of payroll giving scare you away. With the right letters, you can turn complex corporate benefits into simple, sustainable support for your mission. Plus, you can use Double the Donation’s payroll giving services to automate the identification of eligible supporters and access company-specific instructions and next steps!

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Enhancing a donor profile with employment data

Enhancing a Donor Profile With Employment Data [A Guide]

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A well-rounded donor profile is essential for maximizing fundraising success, and employment information plays a crucial role in enhancing donor engagement and giving potential.

By integrating the right data into your donor profiles, organizations like yours can personalize outreach, increase contributions, and strengthen relationships with supporters alike.

Lucky for you, this guide explores the importance of employment data in your donor profiles, outlines effective collection methods, and highlights strategies for leveraging this information to boost fundraising results.

More specifically, we’ll cover the following:

Ready to begin supercharging your donor information with powerful employment insights? Continue reading to find out how.

What is a donor profile?

A donor profile is a comprehensive record of information about an individual supporter. This information helps nonprofits understand their giving behavior, engagement history, and potential for future contributions.

These profiles typically include key details such as:

  • Name
  • Contact information
  • Donation history
  • Communication preferences
  • Demographic insights

Beyond basic information, an enriched donor profile can also contain insights regarding a donor’s interests, past event participation, volunteer involvement, and—perhaps most importantly—employment details.

By building robust donor profiles, nonprofits can personalize outreach efforts, strengthen relationships, and ultimately increase fundraising success.

A sample donor profile with nonprofit data like the individual's full name, education, employment details, and charitable involvement

Sample prospect research profile

Why employment data matters in donor profiles

Employment data is crucial information for nonprofits looking to enhance their fundraising efforts and build stronger relationships with donors. When it comes to establishing well-rounded donor profiles, employer information is an essential piece of the puzzle.

Here’s why:

  • It allows you to identify corporate giving opportunities. Tons of donors work for companies with employee giving programs (like matching gifts and volunteer grants), but they may not even know about the opportunities. When you understand where your supporters are employed, your team can uncover programs and encourage donors to get involved, driving engagement and revenue alike.
  • It empowers you to personalize your outreach. The more you know about an individual, the better you can tailor your communications for them specifically. Knowing where they work allows you to segment outreach by employer, industry, workplace giving eligibility, and more⁠—ultimately ensuring customized engagement. You can even tailor your messaging based on where an individual is in the matching gift process, thanks to Double the Donation’s new matching gift status updates!
  • It permits you to estimate a donor’s giving capacity. Knowing how much an individual could potentially give is essential, and employment data can help you estimate their capacity for supporting your cause.

As you can see, the benefits of including employer data in donor profiles is multifold. If you haven’t already, now is the perfect time to begin incorporating the information in your donors’ records.

Leverage well-built donor profiles with Double the Donation.

Collecting employment information from supporters

Gathering employment data from donors is a crucial step in unlocking fundraising and workplace giving opportunities. However, nonprofits must be strategic in how they collect this information to ensure accuracy and encourage donor participation.

Here are some handy ways to gather employment details from supporters:

  1. Include Employer Fields on Donation Forms – Adding a simple field for employer information on online and offline donation forms makes it easy for donors to provide their workplace details at the point of giving.
  2. Ask During Event Registrations – Whether supporters are signing up for a fundraising event, gala, or volunteer opportunity, include a section for employer information in the registration process.
  3. Leverage Workplace Giving Tools – Platforms like Double the Donation allow donors to quickly search for their employer’s workplace giving programs, often leading them to input their company name while making a donation.
  4. Survey Donors and Volunteers – Periodically send surveys to your supporter base asking for updated information, including their current employer, to ensure records remain accurate.
  5. Utilize LinkedIn and Other Public Data Sources – If supporters haven’t provided employment details, checking LinkedIn profiles or company directories (where publicly available) can help fill in missing gaps.
  6. Enlist an Employer Append Service ⁠— Utilizing a dedicated data enhancement provider can help locate employment information by scanning against publicly and privately held data sources.

For the best results, you’ll likely want to incorporate a combination of the above-recommended methods. This will allow you to access employment information for the largest number of donors possible, ensuring that you can maximize workplace giving opportunities, encourage matching gifts, and personalize engagement strategies to boost both donor participation and fundraising success.

Leveraging employment data for fundraising success

Employment data is a key component in building a well-rounded and actionable donor profile, offering nonprofits valuable insights into their supporters’ potential for fundraising success. Here’s how your team can benefit from employment data in your supporter records:

Unlock Workplace Giving Programs

One of the most significant advantages of knowing a donor’s employer is the ability to identify workplace giving opportunities. For example, many corporations offer matching gift programs, where they match donations made by their employees to eligible nonprofits. By tracking employment information, nonprofits can proactively encourage donors to request matches, effectively doubling or even tripling the impact of their gifts.

Beyond matching donations, many corporations also provide volunteer grants or volunteer time off when employees contribute their time to charitable causes. By knowing where a donor works, nonprofits can track volunteer activities and inform supporters about the potential to earn grant money through their workplace. This is another avenue for maximizing fundraising and tapping into a donor’s full giving potential without asking them to give more!

Encourage Cross-Functional Support

Nonprofits can leverage employment information about their supporters to unlock even more opportunities for engagement and corporate giving. Many companies offer multiple forms of philanthropic support, such as matching gifts, volunteer grants, and sponsorships—and understanding where donors work can help nonprofits tap into these resources more effectively.

For example, if a donor works for a company with a known volunteer grant program, that’s a perfect opportunity to encourage them to get involved beyond financial contributions. Highlight how their employer will donate funds for the time they spend volunteering, making their impact even greater.

On the other hand, if a volunteer works for a company that matches financial donations, it can be a great way to get them on board with monetary giving.

Uncover In-Kind Giving or Grant Opportunities

A nonprofit’s supporters are often the key to unlocking corporate grants and in-kind donations—but only if the organization knows where they work. Many companies offer direct corporate grants or donate goods and services to charitable organizations, and leveraging employment data can help nonprofits identify and secure these opportunities.

How? Supporters can provide an inside connection, serving as a bridge to decision-makers in charge of distributing funds and resources. Employees may even be able to nominate your nonprofit for funding or introduce you to the right contacts.

Not to mention, Double the Donation’s database can now provide information on corporate sponsorship programs like grants and in-kind donations, making it easier for nonprofits to identify businesses offering these opportunities.

Strengthen Corporate Partnerships

Employment data can help nonprofits identify clusters of donors employed by the same company or industry. By recognizing these connections, organizations can approach businesses with workplace giving programs and establish partnerships that benefit both the nonprofit and its supporters.

Strengthening these corporate ties can lead to long-term collaborations, fundraising opportunities, and increased visibility for the organization.

Identify High-Potential Donors

Employment data can also help nonprofits segment their donor base by employer size, industry, and giving capacity. For example, donors working for large corporations may have access to more generous matching gift programs or higher volunteer grant amounts. By understanding these dynamics, nonprofits can prioritize engagement with high-potential donors, ensuring they are leveraging every opportunity for financial support.

Tips for building well-rounded donor profiles

Building a well-rounded donor profile is essential for maximizing engagement and increasing fundraising success. By incorporating the following strategies, fundraisers can build detailed and actionable donor profiles that enhance engagement, increase contributions, and strengthen long-term relationships.

1. Track engagement history.

Understanding a donor’s journey with your nonprofit is essential for building strong relationships and optimizing your fundraising efforts. Tracking engagement history allows organizations to see how supporters interact over time, from donations and event attendance to volunteer work and advocacy efforts.

By maintaining records of these interactions in your CRM, nonprofits can personalize their outreach, recognize loyal supporters, and tailor future fundraising appeals based on past engagement. This data helps identify high-potential donors, re-engage lapsed supporters, and create meaningful connections that encourage long-term involvement.

2. Collect key data insights as donors engage.

The best time to gather valuable donor data is when supporters are actively engaging with your organization. Whether they’re making a donation, signing up for a newsletter, or attending an event, nonprofits should seize these moments to collect insights like employer information, communication preferences, and giving motivations.

Simple form fields or follow-up surveys can capture these details without overwhelming donors. By continuously collecting relevant data, organizations build richer donor profiles that improve engagement and fundraising outcomes.

3. Encourage self-reported updates.

Donors change jobs, move to new locations, and shift their philanthropic interests over time. To keep donor profiles accurate, nonprofits should provide easy ways for supporters to update their information on their own. For example, this can be done through self-serve donor portals, email campaigns with update requests, or periodic surveys.

All in all, encouraging donors to keep their profiles current ensures that nonprofits can reach them effectively and leverage opportunities like matching gifts and corporate giving programs.

4. Consider an append service to fill in gaps.

Even with proactive data collection, donor profiles may have missing or outdated information. Luckily, data append services can help nonprofits fill these gaps by cross-referencing donor records with external databases to update contact details, employment information, and more.

These services enhance donor insights without requiring additional effort from supporters, allowing nonprofits to maximize corporate giving potential and personalize outreach based on accurate, up-to-date data.

Wondering if an employer append is right for you? Take the quiz below to find out.

5. Ensure clean data practices.

Maintaining clean and organized donor data is crucial for effective fundraising and engagement. For the best results, nonprofits should regularly audit their databases to remove duplicates, correct outdated information, and standardize data formats.

Plus, implementing data hygiene best practices—such as consistent naming conventions, accurate email categorization, and privacy compliance—helps organizations avoid errors and ensures that fundraising efforts are based on reliable information.

All in all, a well-maintained donor database leads to more efficient outreach, better donor relationships, and increased fundraising success.

Wrapping up & additional resources

Incorporating employment data into donor profiles provides nonprofits with valuable insights that can significantly enhance their fundraising efforts. From identifying matching gift opportunities to engaging corporate partners in new ways, employment information enables organizations to maximize donations and build stronger donor connections.

By implementing effective data collection methods and leveraging workplace giving programs with the right tools and resources, nonprofits can optimize their fundraising strategies and drive greater impact in the long run.

Interested in learning more about nonprofit fundraising and corporate giving? Check out these additional resources:

Enhancing Your Donor Profiles with Employment Information