Year-End Fundraising and Matching Gifts

Year-End Fundraising and Matching Gifts: It’s Not Too Late!

/in /by

The holiday giving season is upon us. Luckily, it’s not too late to get started with matching gifts and year-end fundraising strategies before the clock strikes midnight and the ball drops on New Year’s Day.

As you likely know, the end-of-year fundraising season is a critical time for nonprofits of all shapes and sizes. What better way to maximize such an impactful opportunity than with matching gifts?

To recap, matching gifts are a form of corporate giving where companies agree to match their employees’ charitable donations. For nonprofits, these types of initiatives produce additional fundraising revenue, increased individual and corporate engagement, and more.

However, recent studies show that an estimated $4 to $7 billion in available matching gift funding goes unclaimed each year, essentially leaving tons of corporate donations on the table. And the #1 reason for this significant gap is a lack of knowledge concerning such programs!

This holiday fundraising season, set your organization up to make the most of matching gifts by increasing donor awareness. And Double the Donation is here to help! In this guide, we’ll cover the following key points:

⁠Ready to dive deeper into fundraising research and learn more about strategic donor appeals, retroactive outreach, automated email streams, and the software that can power it all? Let’s get started!

Sign on with matching gift tools before the end of the year.

The Correlation Between Matching Gifts and Year-End Giving Success

End-of-year fundraising and matching gifts are each vital components of a successful nonprofit funding strategy. And the two complement each other to produce a seamless and impactful engagement plan.

After all, more donations flowing during the holiday season means more potential for matching gifts. Meanwhile, promoting matching gift opportunities leads to more⁠ (and larger⁠) donations in the first place!

Correlation between year-end fundraising and matching gifts

Not to mention, donation-matching opportunities also provide a great way to differentiate your appeals and retain your organization at the forefront of donors’ minds.

Let’s take a closer look at some statistics that illustrate the power of year-end fundraising and matching gifts.

Year-end fundraising by the numbers infographic

  • 31% of total giving takes place in December.
  • 12% of annual donations are made in the last three days of the year.
  • 50% of nonprofits are majority-funded through year-end giving.
  • $48 billion is donated to nonprofits in the holiday giving season each year.
  • ⅓ of nonprofits incorporate two or more “touches” in their end-of-year appeals.
  • 52% larger first-time gifts are made during the end-of-year season.
  • 56% of donors are motivated by year-end tax deadlines.
  • 70% of year-end donors give through multiple channels.

Sources: Double the Donation and Nonprofit Hub

Matching gifts by the numbers infographic

  • 26 million individuals work for companies with matching gift programs.
  • 3-5x more funds are raised by campaigns that incorporate donation-matching.
  • 65% of Fortune 500 companies offer matching gifts.
  • 84% of donors are more likely to donate if a match is offered.
  • 1 in 3 donors would give more if matching is applied.
  • 51% increase in average gift size when matching gifts are mentioned in fundraising appeals.
  • 71% increase in average response rate when matching gifts are mentioned in fundraising appeals.
  • 75% donor engagement rate produced by a well-executed matching gift strategy.
  • $2.86 billion is donated by corporations through employee matching gift programs each year.
  • 61% increase in matching gift funds by organizations that use an automation tool.

Sources: Double the Donation

Since we know a significant amount of charitable giving takes place at the end of the year, your team has a significant opportunity to drive more matching gifts when you integrate the two ideas. Talk about a win-win!

Check out our other leading workplace giving strategies for end-of-year fundraising! Access the free, downloadable guide: What to Know About Workplace Giving & the Year-End Fundraising Season.

Top Strategies to Implement for Impactful EOY Gift-Matching

Now that you understand the importance of matching gifts and their relevance during the holiday fundraising season, you might wonder what actionable next steps you can take to get started. Luckily, these expert tips should help!

1. Set up matching gift software ASAP.

You might worry that it’s too late to get started with any new software this year⁠, but that’s simply not true. In fact, the end of the year is typically the time you rely on fundraising software the most. You already have a lot on your to-do list, and equipping your fundraising team with the best tools can provide the biggest impact with the least effort.

Matching gift software, for example, can significantly enhance matching gift results with minimal operational effort, allowing your team to raise more while retaining time and resources for other critical year-end efforts. Specifically, this type of solution empowers organizations by automating the processes involved with identifying match-eligible donors, triggering tailored matching gift follow-up messaging, and tracking matches to completion.

Luckily, implementing matching gift software can be quick, easy, and massively effective, making it essential as the end-of-year season approaches.

Check out this case study from a nonprofit that onboarded its matching gift software in mere hours:

The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges was able to be fully onboarded with Double the Donation’s tools within 12 hours of buying⁠, all in time for an evening fundraising event on the same day! During this period, Metro YMCA of the Oranges integrated our matching gift tool with their online donation forms, configured automated matching gift follow-ups, and embedded the company search database in their website.This YMCA got set up with matching gifts in less than a day, which means it's not too late for your end-of-year and matching gift efforts.

In the following ten months, they identified more than $32,000 in match-eligible donations and maintained a 61% matching gift email open rate and a 9% click-through rate (each more than 3x higher than the average nonprofit).

YMCA case study success story infographic

The moral of the story? Tight turnaround times for software implementation are entirely possible when you need to get up and running quickly⁠, like when the end of the year is quickly approaching. However, it is a priority to dive into matching gifts as soon as possible to make the most of your tools as year-end giving ramps up.

Keep in mind that you also want to make the right decision when purchasing matching gift software for your team. We recommend prioritizing easy setup⁠ (including ready-built integrations with your existing solutions⁠), a positive user experience, and innovative functionality (like matching gift auto-submission).

Our top tip: Schedule a demo with the leading matching gift software provider to get started. Double the Donation is consistently rated as #1 in the industry; see for yourself with the 2-minute overview below!

2. Train your internal fundraising team on the matching gift opportunity.

We mentioned a lack of donor awareness regarding matching gifts as a leading reason for the underutilization of the programs. But often, the knowledge gap extends to an organization’s internal fundraising team, too. And unfortunately, this can lead to matching gift opportunities slipping through the cracks⁠, and available corporate funds ultimately going unclaimed. Thus, getting your staff on board with matching gifts leading up to the year-end fundraising season can go a long way.

The better equipped your team members are to share information about matching gifts, the more effective they’ll be in advocating for and inspiring program participation.

For this reason, Double the Donation provides a ton of educational resources designed to assist organizations in internal matching gift training⁠, including blog posts, webinars, downloadable resources, and more. But our top recommendation is our online Matching Gift Academy (which is even free for current clients).

And now is the perfect time to get your team started as holiday giving draws near!

3. Highlight the potential for matching gifts in end-of-year appeals.

You might have already drafted your year-end fundraising appeals, or you might be working on them right about now. Either way, consider incorporating a blurb about matching gifts!

As the statistics above illustrate, donors are more likely to give (and to give in larger amounts) when they know there’s a match available. Thus, matching gifts can be exactly what you need to coax on-the-fence supporters into becoming end-of-year donors for your cause. And it often starts directly within the donation request itself!

Picture this:

Jeff is an avid supporter of your organization, but it’s the end of the year, and he’s tight on funds. He considered skipping his year-end donation this year (thinking, “What good could my $50 really do, anyway?”). Then he was informed that his employer would match his gift at a 2:1 rate.

At this, he realized his initial gift could be worth over three times the value of his own contribution (which seems a lot more significant to Jeff⁠), and he made his donation. That’s $150 you wouldn’t have collected if not for matching gifts⁠, and there are a lot of “Jeff’s” in the world, too!

Meanwhile, imagine another donor planned to contribute a certain amount⁠; again, let’s say $50. When the donor learns about matching gifts, they’re inspired to increase their own donation amount (perhaps to $100). This, in turn, drives up the match value as well, producing even more revenue for your cause.

The best part? The way you market matching gift opportunities to supporters can be simple. Incorporate a reminder about matching gifts in your social media, email, text, and other appeals across your nonprofit website and more. Consider something like this: “Make your year-end donation go further this year with company gift-matching. See if you’re eligible here.”

Fun fact: Double the Donation offers pre-made and customizable social media graphics and messaging templates, allowing our clients to get a head start on effective promotions!

4. Reach out to match-eligible donors retroactively.

When you incorporate matching gift outreach into your end-of-year strategy, it doesn’t have to be solely focused on new donations, either. In fact, many gifts made throughout the year can still qualify for a match!

Each business that matches gifts establishes its own criteria and submission guidelines. While it varies from company to company, many employers (such as Freeport-McMoRan, William Blair & Company, Victory Capital, and more) grant employee matches through the end of the calendar year. So, for many of your match-eligible donors, their request window will be closing quickly.

That makes the end of the year a perfect opportunity to reach back out to these individuals, remind them about matching gifts, and encourage them to complete the request process with their employer. It’s a fantastic way to boost year-end revenue from existing donors without requiring them to reach back into their own wallets.

5. Familiarize your team with year-end-specific workplace giving programs.

Most businesses with matching gift programs agree to double the donations their employees make year-round. But sometimes, a company establishes a limited-time initiative that is live only at certain times of the year. And the most common timeframe includes year-end-specific matching gift (or other workplace giving) programs.

For example, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) offers a unique giving season match available to its thousands of employees worldwide. Running from mid-October through December each year, the company’s Annual Giving Campaign provides an excellent incentive for year-end charitable giving.

Meanwhile, Warner Bros offers its employees a generous donation stipend to contribute to their favorite nonprofits on Giving Tuesday, kicking off the holiday season. That’s in addition to the $1,000 year-long match and end-of-year giving programs!

If you identify donors in your orbit who work for companies with these types of short-term philanthropy efforts, be sure to address available opportunities with targeted, personalized communications this giving season.

6. Consider custom matching gift partnerships.

Unfortunately, some companies have yet to establish matching gift programs for their employees. But they might be willing to when presented with the opportunity⁠. In that case, we recommend reaching out to employers to propose custom (or “one-off”) matching gift initiatives.

Why? Custom matches provide an easy way for businesses unfamiliar with matching gifts to get acquainted with the effort in a limited capacity.

If a company agrees to offer such a program, it’ll essentially encourage philanthropy by matching employee gifts made exclusively to your organization. And as custom matches typically occur in a defined time frame (e.g., a month), the giving season is a popular time for one to be organized.

Fun fact: Double the Donation now offers innovative functionality for nonprofits looking to facilitate these programs in their company database tool!

*As a note: This feature is designed specifically for fundraisers to manage matching gifts. If you’re a corporation that’s interested in creating a matching gift program, let us know, and we’ll share information about our corporate vendor partners.

7. Leverage automated end-of-year email streams.

Another significant roadblock in matching gifts is that nonprofit fundraising staff simply lack the time to manage and promote these efforts. In fact, Nonprofits Source reports that 80% of nonprofits struggle to establish workplace giving strategies with limited staff and resources.

Luckily, that’s where matching gift automation comes in!

Automated email streams enable nonprofits to configure and trigger customizable messages when an individual gives to your organization. This might include one dedicated to match-eligible donors, one for likely ineligible donors, and one for donors with unknown eligibility.

Doing so ensures that every donor receives matching gift outreach in a timely manner. And that no donation falls through the cracks, even when your team is juggling 100 different end-of-year tasks. Meanwhile, the time you would have spent issuing matching gift reminders can be reallocated to other fundraising and mission-related tasks.

Here’s an example of an email you might send:

Sample year-end matching gifts email

Year-end email streams can either take place directly following a giving season donation (typically within 24 hours of the initial gift) or retroactively, as detailed above. Both are excellent ways to encourage matching gift participation among donors and drive additional revenue for your cause.

Regardless, you’ll want to provide the donor with as much employer-specific information as is available. This should include donation minimums and maximums, match ratios, submission deadlines, and direct links to their company’s online request forms. And your automation system can gather all of that data so that you don’t have to!

How Automation Frees Up Fundraising Time in December

We know that the end of the year is a crucial time for nonprofit fundraisers, and matching gifts can seem like just another thing on your already full plate. But they don’t have to be! By automating the matching gift process from start to finish, your team can raise more without lifting a finger⁠, allowing you to free up invaluable fundraising time within the giving season.

Interested in learning how you can do so? Check out this free, on-demand webinar replay to see how Double the Donation’s automation platform can help you…

  • Eliminate manual employment data research.
  • Simplify the employment data collection process.
  • Cut time spent researching matching gift companies.
  • Reduce manual outreach efforts.
  • Track metrics in an easy-to-understand way.
  • Integrate into your existing fundraising tools.

With automation in place, you can spend less time managing the logistics of matching gifts and more time focusing on what truly matters: engaging with donors and maximizing your year-end fundraising efforts. By streamlining the process, you’ll not only save precious hours but also increase your chances of securing more matches, ultimately boosting your fundraising total. Plus, automated systems ensure that no match goes unnoticed, allowing your team to work smarter, not harder, this holiday season.

Next Steps for Smart Year-End Fundraising and Matching Gifts

It’s not too late to launch effective matching gift strategies this year-end fundraising season. But it is time to get started now. After all, the longer you wait, the more potential matches you’re missing out on.

Prepare your team by incorporating these practices and investing in powerful and innovative matching gift tools. This allows you to maximize corporate donation-matching in the remainder of the year and into the new year, too.

Good luck, and happy holidays!

Are you looking for additional resources to continue growing your knowledge of all things matching gifts this year-end fundraising season? Check out these free guides to learn more:

Ultimate Matching Gifts Guide Strategies for Marketing Matching Gifts

Year-end fundraising and matching gifts CTA

Donor-Advised Funds Are DAFs Eligible for Matching Gifts

Donor-Advised Funds: Are DAFs Eligible for Matching Gifts?

/in /by

In the world of charitable giving, Donor-Advised Funds (also known as DAFs) have become a popular tool for philanthropists, offering flexibility, tax advantages, and an easy way to manage donations. However, one question that often arises is whether donations made through DAFs are eligible for matching gift programs.

Matching gifts, a common practice among employers to amplify charitable contributions, are an effective way for donors to maximize their impact. But when it comes to DAFs, the rules and eligibility can be a bit murky. In this post, we’ll explore whether you can take advantage of matching gifts when receiving contributions through a Donor-Advised Fund and what your team should know to ensure your impact is maximized:

Navigating matching gifts with Donor-Advised Funds can be tricky, but understanding their nuances is crucial in maximizing your charitable giving potential. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at the eligibility requirements for matching gifts, highlight companies that do support DAF donations, and provide tips on how you can easily track and take advantage of these opportunities. Let’s begin!

What to Know About Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs)

Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) have gained significant popularity in recent years as an efficient and flexible way to manage charitable giving. Essentially, a DAF is a philanthropic vehicle that allows donors to make charitable contributions, receive an immediate tax deduction, and then recommend grants to qualified charitable organizations over time. Think of it as a charitable savings account where you can deposit money, invest it for growth, and choose where and when to distribute funds.

Let’s take a closer look at the key features of DAFs:

Tax Advantages

When you contribute to a DAF, you can claim an immediate tax deduction for the full amount, even if you choose to distribute the funds to a charity at a later date. This allows you to benefit from tax savings right away, while still having the flexibility to decide on your charitable donations over time.

Investment Growth

Contributions to a DAF can be invested in a variety of investment options, which may allow your charitable dollars to grow over time. The interest or investment returns generated within the fund are not subject to taxes, meaning you can potentially give more to the charity of your choice as the value of the fund increases.

Flexibility in Giving

One of the most appealing aspects of DAFs is the ability to recommend grants to multiple charitable organizations over time. You can spread your donations across a variety of causes, or give larger gifts to a single charity. Plus, you can make recommendations on when and how those grants should be distributed.

Eligibility and Control

While DAFs are managed by a sponsoring organization (such as a community foundation or financial institution), the donor retains advisory control over how the funds are distributed. However, it’s important to note that the sponsoring organization is legally responsible for ensuring grants comply with IRS rules and that funds are used appropriately.

Anonymity

If you prefer to make anonymous donations, DAFs can be a great tool. While you can recommend a grant to a charity, the sponsoring organization can release the donation without revealing your identity, offering a layer of privacy.

While DAFs provide incredible flexibility and benefits, it’s important to understand the rules surrounding them, especially when it comes to matching gifts, as these funds can sometimes complicate eligibility for matching contributions. Let’s dive deeper into whether you can utilize matching gift programs when donating via a DAF.

Typical DAF Matching Gift Eligibility Requirements

All too often, nonprofits assume donor-advised funds are ineligible for corporate matches without even checking, which makes them miss out on vital fundraising opportunities. If your donors’ impact can potentially be doubled, why wouldn’t you look into it?

Nonprofit leaders who are unfamiliar with donor-advised funds often accept the donation for face value and don’t even consider that it might be eligible for a corporate match. While donor-advised funds aren’t always matched by employers, a lot of corporate giving programs do offer them!

As you’re probably already aware, matching gift guidelines vary by company. Some companies explicitly state their policies on donor-advised funds, while others ignore the subject completely, even in their complete guidelines.

Let’s take a look at some major companies’ matching gift guidelines for charitable donations from donor-advised funds below.

6 Companies that Match Employees’ Donor-Advised Funds

As your nonprofit starts incorporating donor-advised funds into its corporate giving strategy, it may be difficult to immediately recognize companies’ guidelines and restrictions surrounding these donations.

Take a look at the following examples of companies that directly address charitable gift funds. That way, you’ll know what to look for while researching your own donors’ employers.

1) Edwards Lifesciences

Donor-Advised-Funds Edwards Lifesciences Logo

Edwards Lifesciences matches donations up to $5,000 per full-time employee per year.

The company is also very clear regarding its donor-advised fund (DAF) matching policy:

“Edwards Foundation will match the tax-deductible portion of employee’s gifts made by cash, check and credit card. The Foundation will also match stock donations, as well as gifts coming out of an employee’s donor-advised fund (DAF).“

Learn more about Edwards Lifesciences’ matching gift program.

2) American Express

American Express matches donor-advised funds to eligible organizations.American Express not only matches employee donations (sometimes at a 2:1 ratio), but it also has very explicit and detailed matching gift guidelines.

This simplifies the donor-advised match process for nonprofits, for its charitable employees, and for the company itself.

Here’s what the company’s match policy says about donor-advised funds:

What is eligible?
“Contributions out of a charitable-gift, donor-advised, community-foundation, or family fund to an eligible nonprofit distributed from an established fund set up by the employee in his or her name.”

What is not eligible?
“Contributions earmarked to an already established or to establish an employee’s charitable-gift, donor-advised, community-foundation, or family fund.”

Learn more about American Express’ matching gift program.

3) Dow Chemical

Dow Chemical matches gifts from donor-advised funds to eligible organizations.

Dow Chemical offers a straightforward matching gift program that all employees and retirees can use to double their contributions to eligible nonprofits.

While Dow’s matching gift policy does have a few restrictions placed regarding the eligibility of certain organizations, matches that are eligible can range anywhere from $250 to $10,000, which can be matched at a 1:1 ratio.

Here’s what Dow Chemical’s guidelines say about giving from donor-advised funds and other charitable gift funds to eligible organizations:

“As long as the funds belong to a Dow employee/retiree and the funds are that person’s money alone, donations can be given through a donor-advised fund or other charitable gift fund. Employees/retirees will need to submit the matching gift form online after the donation has been made.”

Learn more about Dow’s matching gift program.

4) CarMax

CarMax is regularly recognized for having one of the top corporate employee giving programs. The company not only matches employee donations, but it also matches donations from dependents until they turn 26.CarMax has a giving program but will not match charitable donations from donor-advised funds.

The company will match up to $10,000 per associate per year. As with other well-designed giving programs, CarMax’s program encourages its employees to give back and strengthen the community.

When it comes to donor-advised funds, CarMax’s guidelines do have some restrictions regarding which gifts are eligible:

“Deferred gifts (annuities, charitable remainder trusts, etc.), bequests, insurance premiums that name the organization as a beneficiary, and gifts to and from donor-advised funds [are ineligible for a match].”

Learn more about CarMax’s matching gift program.

5) Bank of America

Bank of America matches donations up to $5,000 but does not match gifts from donor-advised funds.Bank of America matches donations to most 501(c)(3) organizations up to $5,000 annually per employee. The company also provides grants when retirees and employees volunteer.

They’ll match donations anywhere from $25 to $5,000 at a 1:1 ratio, allowing employees to double their contributions to eligible nonprofits.

The company provides clear guidelines for matching gifts from donor-advised funds. Here’s what the company has to say:

“We do not match charitable gifts to private foundations, family or donor-advised funds, or gifts to political or fraternal organizations.”

Learn more about Bank of America’s matching gift program.

6) Chevron

Chevron offers matches for gifts made from donor-advised funds as long as they're directly funded by the employee.Chevron provides matching gifts to multiple types of nonprofit organizations, up to $10,000 per employee each year.

Both full-time employees and retirees are eligible for matches, but while retirees can request up to $3,000 in matches annually, current employees can request up to $10,000 in matches annually.

Here’s what Chevron’s Humankind Matching Gift Program guidelines say about donor-advised funds:

“Donor-advised funds must be directly funded by the employee, retiree, or director only, and the fund must maintain a separate account segregating the contributions of the donor. Contributions made by a qualified family foundation or donor-advised fund must be directed by the donor and made on his or her behalf.”

Learn more about Chevron’s matching gift program.

How a Matching Gift Database Can Help

For the most part, companies’ matching gift programs tend to be well-thought-out, but you’ll likely run into many companies where this isn’t the case. A lot of businesses offer matching gifts, but have a lot of restrictions regarding eligible organizations and contribution types.

It’s up to your organization to research all your donors’ employers’ guidelines. This can be a long, arduous process, but a matching gift database (like Double the Donation) can help.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Your nonprofit embeds the tool directly to your site or online donation page.
  2. To determine eligibility, corporate employees search their employers.
  3. The results (i.e., available forms, guidelines, restrictions, etc.) are shown instantly.

Growing DAF revenue and matching gifts with a corporate giving database

Double the Donation offers the world’s leading corporate giving database, providing information on programs such as matching gifts, volunteer grants, payroll giving, sponsorships, and other giving opportunities. Today, over 8,500 organizations use it because nonprofits and schools can’t afford to miss out on these valuable revenue opportunities.

You can pinpoint donors who are eligible for matching gifts, and by searching their employers, you can determine if their contributions are eligible based on factors like donation size or type (e.g., donor-advised funds). A matching gift database like this ensures that you maximize your donors’ impact!

Bonus: Donor-Advised Funds + Challenge Match Campaigns

In addition to corporate matching gifts, challenge match campaigns are a powerful way to boost donations, and when paired with Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs), they can significantly amplify your impact. Unlike employee matching gifts, challenge matches are typically initiated by individuals, organizations, or foundations to inspire others to donate by offering to match funds dollar-for-dollar, up to a specific limit.

Here’s how challenge match campaigns work with DAFs:

  • Empower donors to lead: If a donor has a DAF, they can initiate a challenge match, where they pledge to match donations made by others to your organization, helping to drive additional contributions.
  • Increase engagement: Challenge matches create excitement and urgency, motivating more people to participate in the campaign.
  • Maximize giving: The matching component encourages more donations, allowing the initial donor to significantly increase the overall impact of their DAF contributions.

While challenge match campaigns are distinct from employee matching gifts, they provide an excellent opportunity to expand the reach of your charitable efforts and maximize the effectiveness of Donor-Advised Funds in nonprofit fundraising. By combining both strategies, you can greatly enhance the support you receive for your cause.

Wrapping Up & Next Steps

For nonprofits, understanding the relationship between Donor-Advised Funds and matching gifts is essential in maximizing fundraising efforts and engaging donors effectively. While DAFs offer donors flexibility, tax benefits, and a streamlined way to manage their charitable contributions, they don’t always meet the criteria for matching gift programs offered by employers. This can create some challenges in fully leveraging corporate matching funds.

It’s important for nonprofits to be proactive in communicating with their donors about the potential limitations of DAFs when it comes to matching gifts, while also exploring alternative strategies, such as challenge match campaigns, to encourage more giving and amplify donor contributions. By clearly outlining DAF donation options and educating donors about how matching gifts work, nonprofits can create more opportunities for matching and maximize the impact of every donation.

Get started with employee matching gifts with Double the Donation.

How Children's Health Foundations Can Secure In-Kind Donations

How Children’s Health Foundations Can Secure In-Kind Donations

/in , , /by

Children’s health foundations play a vital role in supporting the well-being and development of children facing medical challenges. These organizations often rely on a variety of resources to fulfill their mission, and in-kind donations represent a powerful avenue to supplement traditional fundraising efforts. Unlike cash gifts, in-kind donations provide tangible goods or services that directly support program delivery, reduce operational costs, and enhance the experience of children and families served.

Securing in-kind donations requires a strategic approach tailored to the unique needs of these organizations. Children’s health foundations benefit immensely from contributions such as medical equipment, toys, and educational tools that improve care environments and patient outcomes. By understanding how to identify, request, and steward these gifts, development professionals can unlock new opportunities to advance their mission.

In this article, we will explore what in-kind donations are, the types most valuable to children’s health foundations, where to find potential donors, and best practices for making the ask. We will also introduce tools that can streamline the process, helping your team maximize impact through smarter fundraising strategies.

Table of Contents

  • What Are In-Kind Donations for Children’s Health Foundations?
  • Types of In-Kind Donations for Children’s Health Foundations
  • Where Children’s Health Foundations Should Look for In-Kind Support
  • How Children’s Health Foundations Should Make the In-Kind Donation Ask
  • Tools and Resources to Help Children’s Health Foundations Get Started

What Are In-Kind Donations for Children’s Health Foundations?

In-kind donations refer to non-cash gifts provided to a nonprofit organization. These can include physical items like equipment, supplies, or products, as well as services such as professional expertise, volunteer time, or event support. Unlike traditional monetary donations, in-kind gifts directly supply the resources needed to operate programs or maintain facilities without requiring the nonprofit to purchase them on its own.

For organizations across all sectors, in-kind donations offer a way to stretch limited budgets and access specialized goods or services that might otherwise be cost-prohibitive. They also foster partnerships with businesses and community members who want to contribute in ways beyond writing checks.

When it comes to children’s health foundations, in-kind donations take on particular significance. These organizations often require specialized medical equipment and supplies to support pediatric care, as well as items that create a welcoming and comforting environment for children and their families. By securing these gifts, Children’s Health Foundations can allocate more financial resources toward direct patient services and innovative programs. In-kind donations thus become a strategic asset that enhances both mission delivery and donor engagement.

How In-Kind Donations Complement Cash Gifts

While cash donations offer flexibility, in-kind gifts provide specificity and immediacy. For example, a donation of pediatric medical monitors from a healthcare technology company directly equips a clinic, whereas cash might be used to purchase such equipment later. Both forms of giving are essential, but in-kind donations often fill critical gaps and reduce procurement timelines.

Moreover, in-kind donations can deepen corporate relationships by aligning a company’s products or services with the nonprofit’s mission. This alignment fosters authentic partnerships that benefit both parties and ultimately improve outcomes for children served.

Types of In-Kind Donations for Children’s Health Foundations

Children’s Health Foundations can benefit from a diverse range of in-kind donations that support their programs and operations. Below are some specific examples that illustrate the breadth and impact of these gifts.

Medical Equipment and Supplies

Donations of pediatric medical equipment, such as monitors, wheelchairs, or specialized beds, are invaluable. These items directly enhance the quality of care and comfort for young patients. Additionally, supplies, including bandages, gloves, and sanitizers, help maintain a safe and hygienic environment, thereby reducing infection risks.

Toys and Games

Providing toys, games, and creative play materials helps children cope with stress and anxiety during medical treatments. Such donations can brighten hospital rooms and create positive distractions that support emotional healing.

Online Learning Tools

Educational software and digital learning platforms enable children to continue their studies while hospitalized or recovering at home. These tools support cognitive development and help maintain a sense of normalcy during challenging times.

Snacks and Nutritional Products

Healthy snacks and nutritional supplements can improve patient well-being and provide significant comfort. These items are especially important for children with dietary restrictions or those undergoing treatments that affect appetite.

Furniture and Facility Supplies

Comfortable furniture for waiting rooms, play areas, and patient rooms enhances the environment and the overall experience for families and staff. Meanwhile, donated cleaning supplies ensure that facilities remain safe and sanitary, which is critical in healthcare settings.

Professional Services and Skilled Volunteer Work

Beyond physical goods, services such as legal advice, marketing support, or transportation can be donated to build organizational capacity. Skilled volunteers can assist with event planning, IT support, or patient engagement initiatives, providing cost-saving benefits and expertise.

Where Children’s Health Foundations Should Look for In-Kind Support

Identifying potential sources of in-kind donations requires a strategic approach. As a result, children’s health foundations should begin by researching companies with corporate social responsibility programs that align with their mission of improving children’s health and well-being. Many businesses prioritize community impact and seek partnerships with nonprofits that reflect their values.

Below is a list of companies known for their in-kind giving programs that align well with the needs of children’s health foundations:

Clorox

Clorox often donates cleaning supplies and disinfectants, which are essential for maintaining sterile environments in healthcare settings. Their support helps children’s health foundations uphold high standards of hygiene and safety.

IKEA

IKEA provides furniture donations that create comfortable, child-friendly spaces in hospitals and clinics. Their products help transform clinical environments into welcoming areas for children and families.

Wayfair

Similarly, Wayfair offers a wide range of furniture and home goods that can be used to furnish patient rooms, waiting areas, and administrative offices. Their donations contribute to a more supportive atmosphere for care delivery.

Gerber

Gerber donates nutritional products and snacks tailored for infants and young children. These donations support the dietary needs of pediatric patients and promote healthy growth during treatment.

Danone

Danone provides specialized nutritional supplements and snacks that cater to children with medical dietary requirements. Their contributions enhance overall patient care and comfort.

Publix

Publix supports nonprofits through food donations, including healthy snacks and meal items. Their community engagement aligns with efforts to nourish children undergoing medical care.

Hasbro

Hasbro donates toys and games that help children cope with hospitalization and medical procedures. Their gifts foster joy and distraction, which are essential for emotional healing.

Build-A-Bear

Build-A-Bear offers stuffed animals and comfort items that provide emotional support to children facing health challenges. These donations create a sense of companionship and security.

Philips Healthcare

Philips Healthcare donates advanced medical equipment and technology that improve diagnostic and treatment capabilities. Their support directly enhances clinical outcomes for pediatric patients.

3M

3M provides medical supplies and safety products that help maintain infection control and patient safety. Their donations are critical to operational excellence in healthcare environments.

How Children’s Health Foundations Should Make the In-Kind Donation Ask

Making a thoughtful and strategic ask for in-kind donations is essential to building lasting partnerships with corporate donors. A well-crafted approach demonstrates professionalism, aligns the nonprofit’s needs with the company’s goals, and makes it easy for businesses to say yes.

Here’s how you can do so:

Start by personalizing outreach efforts. Research the company’s mission, past giving history, and values to tailor your message. Highlight how your organization’s work complements their CSR objectives and community impact priorities.

Clearly articulate what specific items or services you need and explain how these donations will be used to benefit children and families. Providing concrete examples helps donors understand the tangible impact of their support.

Communicate the benefits to the company, such as increased visibility through event recognition, enhanced community goodwill, opportunities for employee engagement, and potential tax incentives. Emphasizing mutual value strengthens the case for partnership.

Offer flexible giving options to accommodate different donor capacities. This might include physical product donations, gift cards, sponsorship of events, or provision of professional services. Flexibility increases the likelihood of securing support.

Finally, make it easy for donors to follow through by providing a detailed wish list, shipping instructions, and a dedicated contact person. Clear communication and responsiveness throughout the process foster trust and encourage repeat giving.

Tools and Resources to Help Children’s Health Foundations Get Started

Leveraging dedicated tools can significantly streamline the process of identifying and securing in-kind donations. Many companies have established donation programs with specific application procedures, but these opportunities are often scattered across multiple platforms and websites, making it difficult to track on your own.

Using a centralized resource saves time and effort by aggregating information about corporate giving programs, eligibility criteria, and application links. This enables children’s health organizations to quickly uncover companies whose CSR initiatives align with their missions.

For example, Double the Donation offers a comprehensive corporate giving program database that includes thousands of verified programs, covering in-kind donations, grants, and workplace giving. This platform empowers nonprofit professionals to identify high-value corporate partners and manage relationships effectively, giving them a competitive edge in securing critical resources.

Wrapping Up & Additional Resources

Securing in-kind donations is a strategic way for children’s health foundations to enhance their programs, reduce costs, and deepen community partnerships. By identifying specific needs, researching aligned corporate donors, and making thoughtful asks, nonprofits can unlock valuable resources that directly benefit children’s health and well-being.

Utilizing tools like Double the Donation’s corporate giving database streamlines the process, saving time and expanding access to high-impact opportunities. Taking these first steps empowers your team to build sustainable in-kind donation strategies that support your mission and amplify your impact.

Maximize Your In-Kind Donation Potential with Double the Donation

Corporate sponsorships and in-kind donations are critical to the success of nonprofit events and programs, but sourcing the right partners can be time-consuming and overwhelming. Double the Donation streamlines the entire process, helping your team find, secure, and manage corporate support with ease.

With our industry-leading corporate giving database, you can quickly identify companies that offer financial sponsorships, in-kind donations, and corporate grants, giving you a data-driven edge in building meaningful partnerships. Raise more with corporate grants and in-kind gifts; get a demo today!

Asking for Employer Info vs. Using Employer Appends: What to Know

Asking for Employer Info vs. Using Appends: What to Know

/in , , , /by

Employment information is a valuable asset in nonprofit fundraising. It can help identify matching gift opportunities, uncover potential corporate partners, and personalize donor outreach. But how should your organization go about collecting this data? That’s where the question of asking for employer info vs. using appends comes in.

In other words, should you rely on donors to self-report where they work, or use a data append service to fill in the blanks?

Each method has its benefits and limitations, and understanding these differences is crucial for building a strong, complete, and accurate donor database. In this post, we’ll break down what nonprofits should know about both approaches and how to decide which is right for your organization. Specifically, we’ll cover:

Whether you’re just starting to collect employment data or are looking to refine your current approach, this guide will help you weigh your options and make informed decisions about how you do so.

By understanding how to gather and use this information effectively, your nonprofit can unlock new opportunities for engagement, funding, and long-term donor relationships. Let’s dive in!

The value of employer info in nonprofit fundraising

Understanding where your donors work is more than a data point; it’s a strategic advantage. Employer information opens the door to a range of fundraising opportunities that can significantly amplify donor impact and deepen engagement.

After all, tons of companies offer employee-led giving programs. When you know where your supporters work, you can easily determine if they qualify for these programs and configure targeted next steps accordingly.

Here are just a few of the opportunities that employment information can help uncover:

  • Matching Gifts: Many companies match donations their employees make to nonprofits, often doubling or even tripling the original gift. Knowing a donor’s employer helps identify matching gift eligibility and streamline follow-up accordingly.
  • Volunteer Incentives: Some employers offer monetary grants or other incentives in exchange for volunteer hours logged by their employees. Capturing employer info allows you to promote these volunteer programs to the right supporters.
  • Payroll Giving: Payroll giving programs enable employees to donate directly from their paychecks. Identifying where a supporter works enables you to guide them toward these convenient giving options.
  • In-Kind Support and Sponsorships: Employer data can reveal connections to businesses that may offer non-cash support, such as products, services, or corporate sponsorships.
  • Targeted Engagement: With accurate employer information, you can personalize outreach and suggest relevant corporate giving options, maximizing impact for both your organization and your supporters.

In short, employer information helps nonprofits move from one-size-fits-all fundraising to smarter, more strategic engagement. The more you know about where your donors work, the better positioned you are to connect their personal giving to broader opportunities through their employer.

Method #1: Asking for employer info directly

One of the most straightforward and effective ways to gather employment data is to ask donors directly. This method relies on self-reporting, or inviting donors to share their employer information at specific points in their journey with your organization.

What it means:

Asking for employer info directly means including a field in your donation form, event registration, volunteer sign-up, or post-gift follow-up where donors can share where they work. This approach is entirely opt-in and allows you to gather current, self-reported data straight from the source.

Collecting employment information directly from donors

Pros:

  • High Accuracy: Because the data comes directly from the donor, it’s more likely to be correct and up to date. Asking each time an individual engages with your cause reduces the odds of the information going stale, too.
  • Opportunities to Connect Supporters to Next Steps: When you ask donors where they work during or immediately after a donation, it’s easier to connect them to the next opportunity, like submitting a matching gift or volunteer grant request.
  • Gets Individuals Thinking About Eligibility As They Give: The point of donation is often the height of supporter engagement. Requesting employment info at this time gets donors and other supporters thinking about their eligibility as they give, which can even function as a generosity motivator or giving catalyst.

Cons:

  • Gaps in Completion: Donors may skip optional form fields, especially during a streamlined donation or registration process, while others may opt to give offline. This would leave your organization with blank lines in your database, unless you had a backup method in place for collecting this information.

Best practices for success:

  • Make It Optional and Simple: Keep the question brief. For example, consider an additional form field asking “Where do you work?”—and don’t require the information to complete a transaction.
  • Explain the Why: Let donors know why you’re asking by providing context around the form. A simple note like “Your employer may match your gift and increase your impact” encourages participation.
  • Include It Strategically: Add the field to donation forms, confirmation pages, volunteer registrations, and thank-you emails where engagement is already high. It’s easy to do with Double the Donation’s integration options!
  • Follow Up: If the employer field is left blank, consider a polite follow-up email asking for the information and explaining the benefits to both the donor and your mission.
  • Use the Data Promptly: If you collect employer info, make sure it’s tied to direct action, like checking for match eligibility or tracking corporate volunteer hours.

💡 Key Takeaway: Asking for employer information directly can be a highly effective way to gather accurate data and engage donors more deeply. This is especially true when paired with a clear purpose and thoughtful timing.

Asking for Employer Info vs. Using Employer Appends: Getting Started With Double the Donation

Method #2: Utilizing employer appends and employer data enrichment

When donor records lack employment information, a data append can help fill in the blanks at scale. This method uses external databases to match donor records with publicly available or proprietary employment data, giving your organization a broader view of where your supporters work.

What it means:

An employer append essentially involves sending a list of donor names, email addresses, and other identifying details to a trusted data provider. The provider then returns employment information for matched records, typically including company name, industry, and even workplace giving eligibility and next steps. This process can enrich your CRM without requiring any action from the donor.

Collecting donor information through an employer append

Pros:

  • Efficient and Scalable: Append hundreds or thousands of donor records in a single batch, saving time and manual effort while scaling up the information available to you.
  • Fills in Gaps: Even with a robust data-collection strategy, you’re not likely to have employment data for every individual in your supporter base. An employer append is perfect for uncovering employer information in legacy data, unresponsive donors, or those who skip form fields.
  • Revenue-Driving Potential: Appending helps connect supporters to their workplace giving programs quickly, leading to more matching gifts, volunteer grant opportunities, and stronger corporate partnership leads.
  • No Disruption to the Donor Journey: Because this method functions entirely behind the scenes, there’s no negative impact on the donor experience or giving flow.

Cons:

  • Potential for Inaccuracy: Matches are based on probability and third-party sources, which can occasionally return outdated or incorrect data.
  • Cost: Most employer append services charge based on volume or subscription, making it a significant investment you’ll need to plan for.

Best practices for success:

  • Start with Clean Data: Ensure your existing donor records (i.e., names, emails, addresses) are accurate and up to date before submitting them for an append.
  • Use a Trusted Provider: Work with a reputable vendor that specializes in nonprofit employment data and can deliver high-confidence matches.
  • Validate Where Possible: If a donor responds or updates their info later, compare it to appended results and adjust the results accordingly.
  • Combine with Workplace Giving Tools: Integrate your new employment data with workplace giving software to automatically prompt eligible supporters with next steps following the donation or volunteer registration flow.
  • Refresh Regularly: Employment changes over time. Consider appending your file annually or semi-annually to keep your data fresh and relevant.

💡 Key Takeaway: Utilizing employer appends allows nonprofits to dramatically expand their understanding of who their donors are without relying solely on self-reported information. When done strategically, it can accelerate your workplace giving efforts and turn hidden data into new revenue opportunities.

Asking for Employer Info vs. Using Employer Appends: Getting Started With Double the Donation

Method #3: Taking a combined approach

The most effective strategy for collecting employment data often isn’t choosing between asking supporters or using appends; it’s combining both. By blending direct collection with employer appends, your nonprofit can build a more complete, accurate, and actionable database while maximizing both reach and reliability.

What it means:

A combined approach involves collecting employer information directly from donors through forms, surveys, and follow-ups, while also running periodic employer appends to fill in the blanks or update existing records. This method leverages the strengths of both strategies and minimizes their individual limitations.

For example, you might collect employer info on your donation forms and then run an append on all records that remain blank, or use appends to verify and enrich self-reported data over time.

Pros:

  • Maximum Coverage: You get the best of both worlds: accurate self-reported data and a broader reach through appends. As your database grows, a combined approach ensures new and existing records remain as up-to-date and complete as possible.
  • Stronger Personalization and Segmentation: With more complete data, you can confidently tailor outreach, identify corporate giving opportunities, and create targeted campaigns.
  • Increased Workplace Giving Revenue: More employment data means more potential matches and grants identified, and more donors ultimately connected to workplace giving programs.

Cons:

  • More Complex to Manage: Running both processes requires careful coordination, particular workflows, and detailed attention to data hygiene.
  • Costs Still Apply: Append services still require a budget, and collecting directly can demand time and resources for training, communication, and follow-up.
  • Duplicate or Conflicting Data: You may encounter discrepancies between self-reported info and appended data, requiring validation and thoughtful resolution.

Best practices for success:

  • Create a Data Workflow: Establish clear processes for collecting, appending, validating, and updating employment information across your database.
  • Segment Your Data: Keep track of how employer data was collected (self-reported vs. appended) and treat each group accordingly when testing campaigns or messaging.
  • Prioritize Data Accuracy: When there’s a conflict, favor donor-reported data unless you have a compelling reason to override it. Always aim to confirm before acting.
  • Use Clear Messaging: When asking for employer info, explain how it helps increase impact (e.g., uncovering matching gifts or volunteer grants) to encourage more donors to participate.
  • Schedule Regular Updates: Use append services on a regular basis to keep your records current, especially as employment status frequently changes.

💡 Key Takeaway: By combining direct collection and employer appends, your nonprofit can establish a smarter, more reliable approach to employment data. It’s a strategy that balances donor engagement with data scale, giving you the tools to increase revenue, deepen relationships, and tap into the full potential of workplace giving.

Integrating employment data into your fundraising strategy

Collecting employment data is only valuable if you use it. That’s why the most effective nonprofits treat this information as a core part of their fundraising strategy.

When integrated thoughtfully, employer information can inform everything from campaign planning to workplace giving outreach and corporate partnership development.

Here’s how to make employment data work for your fundraising goals:

1. Identify and Promote Workplace Giving Opportunities

Once you know where a supporter works, you can check if their employer offers a matching gift, volunteer grant, or payroll giving program. From there, you can use this information to trigger workplace giving marketing efforts: personalize follow-up emails, include employer-specific instructions, and make it easy for donors to complete the process of getting involved, ultimately increasing the impact of every gift.

2. Strengthen Corporate Relationships

If multiple donors or volunteers work for the same company, that can be a natural lead-in for broader partnership opportunities. Use this data to approach businesses for event sponsorships, in-kind donations, team volunteer days, or dedicated workplace giving campaigns, backed by the fact that their employees already support your mission.

3. Enhance Stewardship and Donor Experiences

When you receive third-party disbursements, like matching gifts or volunteer grants, it’s a valuable opportunity to thank donors and reinforce your appreciation. Having employment data on hand allows you to follow up promptly and personally, recognizing both their direct and facilitated support.

Mentioning a donor’s employer in thank-you messages or impact reports (when appropriate) shows you’re paying attention and actively working to maximize their impact. This thoughtful, personalized stewardship builds trust, deepens loyalty, and improves the donor experience over time.

Integrating employment data into your stewardship strategy isn’t about adding complexity. It’s about working smarter with insights you likely already have (or can easily collect). When used well, employer information becomes more than just a database field; it’s a powerful tool to drive engagement, gratitude, and lasting impact.

Wrapping up & additional resources

When it comes to collecting employment data, both methods have value, and often, the best strategy combines them. Here’s what it comes down to: asking for employer info vs. using appends isn’t necessarily an either/or decision. Instead, it’s about understanding how each approach fits into your broader data and fundraising goals.

Directly asking donors provides accurate, relationship-building insights, while employer appends can efficiently fill in gaps and scale your outreach. By leveraging both, your nonprofit can build a more complete picture of your donor base and turn workplace connections into meaningful opportunities for engagement, giving, and growth.

Interested in learning more about how supporter employer information can benefit your organization? Check out these additional resources:

Asking for Employer Info vs. Using Employer Appends: You can do both with Double the Donation!

Payroll Giving FAQ What Fundraisers Want to Know

Payroll Giving FAQ | What Fundraisers Want to Know

/in , /by

Payroll giving is a powerful tool that allows employees to contribute to nonprofit causes directly from their paychecks. This method of giving not only simplifies the donation process for employees but also provides organizations with a steady stream of funding. In this comprehensive payroll giving FAQ, we’ll explore the ins and outs of payroll giving, addressing common questions and concerns that nonprofits may have.

These include:

Payroll giving doesn’t have to be complicated. By unveiling the truths behind these common inquiries, we hope to guide your team through the process of growing your revenue with the programs. Keep in mind that with the right tips and tools, there’s a lot of potential there that you don’t want to overlook.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive in with the basics.

What Is Payroll Giving?

Payroll giving, also known as automatic payroll deductions, is a type of corporate giving program that enables employees to donate a portion of their salary to charitable organizations. This system allows for seamless contributions, making it easier for employees to support causes they care about without the need for manual transactions.

Payroll giving programs illustration

If you’re interested in learning more about payroll giving, we recommend checking out our deep dive into the topic: How to Earn More Payroll Donation Revenue (A Strategy Guide).

How Does Payroll Giving Work?

Payroll giving essentially functions through a partnership between employers, employees, nonprofits, and a Payroll Giving system that connects them.

Let’s take a look at a step-by-step breakdown of how the process actually works:

  1. Employer Sets Up a Scheme: First, an employer needs to register with a Payroll Giving agency. These agencies are approved organisations that handle the distribution of donations to charities. Once registered, the employer can offer the scheme to employees as part of their workplace benefits.
  2. Employee Chooses to Participate: Employees who want to give simply fill out a form—either online or through HR—stating how much they want to donate and which charity (or charities) they want to support. There’s no minimum amount, and donations can be changed or stopped at any time.
  3. Donations Are Deducted Automatically: The donation amount is deducted automatically from the employee’s gross salary, often before tax is calculated. This means the donor gets immediate tax relief, and the charity receives the full benefit.
  4. Payroll Giving Platform Distributes the Funds: The employer sends the collected donations to the Payroll Giving platform, which then distributes the money to the specified charities. This usually happens on a monthly basis, providing charities with a reliable income stream.
  5. Charities Receive the Full Donation: Once the Payroll Giving agency processes the donation, the chosen charities receive the full amount pledged by the employee.

In short, payroll giving is a hassle-free way for donors to support charitable causes with maximum impact and minimum effort—straight from their regular paycheck.

What Are the Benefits of Payroll Giving for Nonprofits?

Payroll giving offers a range of valuable advantages for nonprofits, making it a robust and sustainable fundraising tool.

Here’s how charitable organizations can reap the benefits from this type of giving:

  • Reliable, Regular Income
    One of the biggest advantages is consistency. Donations through payroll giving are deducted each pay cycle, meaning nonprofits receive a steady flow of funds they can count on month after month. This predictability helps with budgeting, planning, and sustaining long-term projects.
  • Low Administration Effort
    Because donations are processed through payroll giving platforms rather than typical donation pages, charities don’t need to manage individual donor transactions or paperwork. This reduces administrative costs and effort, allowing teams to focus more on their mission.
  • No Transaction Fees
    Unlike traditional donation methods, payroll giving typically incurs no transaction fees, meaning the full amount goes directly to the nonprofit.
  • Higher Value Donations
    Payroll Giving often results in higher-value donations compared to one-off gifts. Since the money is deducted automatically and regularly, donors are more likely to commit to giving more over time without feeling the financial pinch.
  • Engaged, Loyal Donor Base
    Payroll donors tend to be more consistent and long-term supporters. Their commitment often translates into deeper engagement, advocacy, and even involvement in other fundraising activities, too.
  • Access to Corporate Support
    Many employers offer matched giving, where they match or boost employees’ donations. This doubles the impact for the nonprofit and can lead to broader philanthropic engagement. Not to mention, having multiple payroll giving donors from the same company can signal to a nonprofit a potential corporate partnership opportunity!

For nonprofits looking to build sustainable revenue streams and deepen relationships with supporters, payroll giving is a smart, efficient, and scalable solution.

How Can Nonprofits Encourage Payroll Giving?

Encouraging Payroll Giving requires a strategic blend of awareness, partnership, and ongoing engagement. While the process is simple for employees, nonprofits need to take active steps to promote the option and make it easy for supporters to get involved. Here’s how:

1. Register as an Eligible Cause

Ensure your nonprofit is listed as an eligible organization within leading payroll giving platforms. This process may involve submitting documentation such as your financial records, proof of 501(c)(3) status, a mission overview, and more.

2. Raise Awareness

Inform your audience about the benefits of payroll giving through newsletters, social media, your website, and beyond. As you begin marketing payroll giving, be sure to highlight how easy it is to participate and the impact their contributions can make.

3. Offer Incentives

Consider providing incentives for employees who participate in payroll giving. This could include recognition in newsletters, exclusive updates on the impact of their donations, or special events for payroll givers.

Take this payroll giving FAQ further: Get Double the Donation's complete guide.

What Are the Tax Implications of Payroll Giving?

One of the standout features of payroll giving is its tax efficiency, making it beneficial not just for the charity but also for the donor. Here’s how the tax implications work:

Payroll giving donations are taken directly from an employee’s gross salary, before income tax is applied. This means the donor pays less tax overall, and the charity receives more of the intended donation upfront. There’s no need for the charity to reclaim tax, because it’s already accounted for in the process.

Additionally, unlike other tax-deductible donations, payroll giving doesn’t require the donor to complete a self-assessment tax return or any forms. The process is seamless, handled by the employer’s payroll department and the payroll giving platform.

What Are Some Common Challenges with Payroll Giving?

While payroll giving offers clear benefits for both donors and charities, it’s not without its challenges. Understanding these hurdles can help nonprofits and employers address them proactively and improve participation.

Here are some of the most common issues organizations may face:

Limited awareness among employees

Many employees may not be aware of their company’s payroll giving program. Nonprofits should work closely with companies to ensure that employees are informed about the opportunity to give.

Lack of promotion by nonprofits

Many nonprofits fail to actively promote payroll giving, either due to limited resources or a focus on other fundraising streams. As a result, supporters aren’t encouraged or reminded to consider giving through their payroll.

Administrative delays

The process involves multiple parties—employers, agencies, and charities—which can sometimes lead to delays in donations being processed and distributed. This may impact cash flow for nonprofits and cause confusion for donors.

Maintaining long-term engagement

Keeping payroll giving donors engaged over time can be challenging, especially since the giving process is automatic. Without regular updates and recognition, donors may feel disconnected from the impact of their support.

Wrapping Up & Next Steps

Payroll giving is a valuable avenue for nonprofits to secure funding and engage with donors. By understanding the mechanics of payroll giving and implementing effective strategies, nonprofits can enhance their fundraising efforts and build lasting relationships with supporters. For more information on payroll giving and how to implement it effectively, explore the additional resources and guides below:

Maximize Your Payroll Giving Potential with Double the Donation

Ready to transform your nonprofit’s approach to payroll giving? Double the Donation’s Payroll Giving Module is your key to unlocking a world of recurring support and corporate giving opportunities. With our comprehensive tools, you can effortlessly identify eligible donors, integrate a user-friendly plugin on your website, and access a wealth of resources to enhance your fundraising strategies.

Don’t miss out on the chance to drive more support and turn employment data into a goldmine of revenue opportunities. Get a demo now to learn how Double the Donation can complete your workplace giving strategy and help you capitalize on payroll giving.

Take this payroll giving FAQ further: Get a demo of Double the Donation.

Is an Employer Append Right for Your Nonprofit How to Know

Is an Employer Append Right for Your Nonprofit? How to Know

/in , , /by

If your donor database is missing key employment information, you might be wondering: Is an employer append right for your nonprofit?

Employer appends, or the process of enhancing donor records by filling in employment data, can unlock new opportunities for improved workplace giving efforts, better segmentation, and deepened corporate partnerships. But like any data investment, it’s important to weigh the benefits against your organization’s readiness and goals.

In this post, we’ll walk through the pros, cons, and key inquiries that can help you decide whether this strategy is a smart next step for your fundraising efforts.

Specifically, we invite you to ask yourself (or your team) the following questions:

If you answered “yes” to most (or all) of the above, an employer append might be a strategic next step. Now, let’s take a deeper dive into each key question.

Is an employer append right for your nonprofit? Consider whether you have a high volume of individual gifts.

Do you receive a high volume of individual gifts?

YES: One of the clearest indicators that an employer append might be a wise investment is the volume of individual donations your organization receives. If a significant portion of your fundraising comes from individual donors—especially in the form of small to mid-sized gifts—you likely have untapped potential for employer matching and corporate engagement.

Why does volume matter? Because even if just 20–30% of your individual donors are eligible for matching gifts through their employers, that could represent thousands of dollars in additional revenue you’re currently missing.

NO: By contrast, if your funding is primarily made up of grants, major gifts, or government contracts, an employer append may not deliver the same return. In those cases, employment data may be less relevant to your core fundraising strategy.

So, if you’re regularly processing hundreds or thousands of individual gifts each year, it might be worth it to consider an append. In other words, the higher your individual donor volume, the stronger the case for appending employer data.

Is an employer append right for your nonprofit? Consider whether you have a lot of missing employment data.

Are you missing employment information in your database?

YES: Before you can take advantage of matching gifts or other workplace giving campaigns, you need one essential piece of data: where your supporters work. If your CRM is filled with blank employer fields, that’s a clear sign that an employer append could be beneficial.

Appending employer data helps fill these gaps efficiently, especially for organizations with a large donor base and limited staff capacity. Even if only a portion of your records can be matched, it’s often enough to uncover significant corporate giving potential and segment communications more effectively.

NO: On the other hand, perhaps you collect employer information consistently, whether through your donation forms, volunteer registrations, follow-up emails, or other supporter onboarding efforts⁠—and don’t have many gaps in your donor base. In that case, you may already have a strong foundation in place.

In other words, if the employer field in your database is mostly complete and kept up to date, an employer append may not deliver as much added value. If so, your resources might be better spent on activating the employer data you already have through targeted matching gift outreach or broader workplace giving campaigns.

Is an employer append right for your nonprofit? Consider whether you have a considerable volunteer base.

Does your organization have many volunteers?

YES: Volunteers often give more than just their time—they can also open the door to valuable funding opportunities, especially if you know where they work. If your organization relies heavily on volunteer support but lacks employment information for those individuals, you could be missing out on corporate volunteer grants and Volunteer Time Off (VTO) programs.

After all, many companies offer financial donations in recognition of their employees’ volunteer hours. Others provide paid VTO, encouraging employees to give back during work hours at approved nonprofit partners. But you can’t take advantage of these programs if you don’t know where your volunteers are employed.

An employer append can help fill in those missing details. Plus, it allows you to follow up with volunteers about corporate giving opportunities tied to their time. Even if only a portion of volunteers qualify, the combined value of grants and engagement can make a meaningful impact. If volunteers are a core part of your community, enhancing your data with employer information is a strategic next step.

NO: If your organization doesn’t rely heavily on volunteers—or volunteer engagement makes up a very small portion of your operations—then an employer append for volunteer records may not deliver significant value. In this case, your time and resources might be better spent optimizing donor data or focusing on other segments of your supporter base, such as recurring givers or event participants.

However, if volunteer involvement grows, revisiting this opportunity could unlock new sources of funding and corporate engagement in the future.

Is an employer append right for your nonprofit? Consider whether you have the resources to prioritize workplace giving.

Is your team ready to prioritize workplace giving?

YES: If your team already sees workplace giving as a strategic priority, an employer append can significantly enhance your efforts. However, adding employment data to your records is only valuable if your team has the resources to act on it. That means following up on workplace giving opportunities, running targeted campaigns, and having someone focused on corporate outreach or stewardship.

When workplace giving is embraced organization-wide, you unlock greater ROI and longer-lasting corporate partnerships. If your team is aligned, resourced, and ready to collaborate around workplace giving, an employer append can serve as the catalyst for smarter outreach and greater impact.

NO: If workplace giving hasn’t yet become a focus—or your team lacks the time, tech, or clarity to act on employer data—it may be worth holding off on an employer append until you’re better prepared. Without a clear plan to integrate employment data into your campaigns, stewardship efforts, or corporate outreach, the data may go unused and offer limited returns on your investment.

Instead, consider starting small. Develop a workplace giving strategy, assign ownership of workplace giving-related tasks, and ensure your team is equipped with program knowledge. Keep in mind that prioritizing workplace giving doesn’t need to be difficult, either, especially when your team is equipped with the right tools, as many teams are already stretched thin. Once you’re aligned on prioritizing workplace giving, you’ll be in a stronger position to turn employer data into meaningful results. At that point, an employer append can be a high-impact next step.

Is an employer append right for your nonprofit? Consider whether you have the right tech in place to support one.

Do you have the right tools in place to support your efforts?

YES: If your organization already has strong tech infrastructure, like a modern CRM, mobile-friendly donation forms, and a workplace giving automation platform, you’re in a great position to act on the insights gained from an employer append. These tools allow you to leverage employer data, uncover employee giving eligibility, and send targeted follow-ups based on employment data.

Beyond basic functionality, think about how your tools help connect supporters to their next steps. Is your matching gift tool connected to your giving forms and CRM to enable targeted outreach? Is your corporate volunteering solution integrated with your VMS to provide seamless information and tailored program instructions?

If your systems support those experiences, you’re well-positioned to maximize the value of appended data and drive meaningful action.

NO: If your organization is still working with outdated systems, manual spreadsheets, or donation forms that don’t support employer-related functionality, an employer append might not yield strong results—at least not yet.

Without the right tools to store, track, and act on employment data, much of that insight may go unused. In this case, focus first on upgrading your tech stack. Prioritize a donor management system that allows for custom fields and segmentation. Plus, explore integrations that support matching gifts and workplace giving platforms.

When your tools are ready to handle and act on employer data, you’ll be able to extract real value from an append, boosting engagement, unlocking corporate funding, and streamlining supporter journeys.

Wrapping up & additional employer append resources

Employer appends are a powerful tool for nonprofits looking to deepen donor insights and tap into underutilized corporate giving opportunities. But they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Evaluate your data quality, fundraising strategy, and capacity to act on new information and make a clear, informed decision about whether it’s the right fit.

If you’ve answered “yes” to many of the readiness questions shared above, your organization may be well-positioned to benefit from this next-level data enhancement.

Interested in learning more about employer appends and how your organization can benefit from them? Check out the additional recommended resources below:

Steps to Market Workplace Giving on Your Nonprofit Website

5 Steps to Market Workplace Giving on Your Nonprofit Website

/in , , /by

Workplace giving is one of the most overlooked revenue opportunities in nonprofit fundraising—but it doesn’t have to be. Every year, billions of dollars in corporate funds go unclaimed simply because eligible donors are unaware that their employers offer these programs. The good news? Your nonprofit website is one of the most effective tools you have to market workplace giving and help close that gap.

By strategically promoting workplace giving online, you can raise awareness, educate supporters, and make it easy for them to multiply the impact of their donations. Whether you’re new to workplace giving or looking to increase participation, these five steps will show you how to turn your website into a powerful driver of matched gifts, volunteer grants, and payroll giving support:

Marketing workplace giving on a nonprofit website is essential for maximizing contributions and fostering a culture of philanthropy. By effectively communicating the opportunities for workplace giving, organizations can engage supporters and encourage them to participate in these valuable programs.

Let’s get started with our first marketing tip!

Step #1: Add workplace giving to your ‘Ways to Give’ page.

The ‘Ways to Give’ page is often one of the most visited sections of a nonprofit’s website. This makes it a prime location to introduce workplace giving options. By including a dedicated section for workplace or employee giving, organizations can highlight the various ways employees can contribute through their employing companies.

In this section, it’s great to provide a brief overview of what workplace giving entails. This could include information about matching gifts, payroll deductions, and volunteer incentives. Clear and concise language will help potential donors understand how they can participate and the impact their contributions can make.

This page from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation puts those elements into action with its Ways to Give page, demonstrating the various ways employees and companies can get involved with their efforts:

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

Additionally, consider using engaging visuals, such as infographics or icons, to illustrate the benefits of workplace giving. This can help capture the attention of visitors and encourage them to explore further.

Step #2: Establish a comprehensive Workplace Giving page on your website.

A mention on your ‘Ways to Give’ page is great⁠—but it’s just the start of an effective promotional strategy. Going a step further, a dedicated Workplace Giving page should serve as a central hub for all information related to workplace giving initiatives. This page will provide detailed explanations of the various programs available, including their operation and the benefits they offer to both employees and nonprofits.

Implementing a section that outlines the different ways employees can contribute—such as through payroll deductions, matching gifts, or volunteer hours—can empower them to choose the method that best suits their preferences and capabilities.

Here’s an example from the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, whose Workplace Giving page references key programs such as payroll deductions, matching gifts, volunteer incentives, and more:

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

Here are a few other best practices to consider as you build this page:

  • Highlight success stories. For the best results, feature testimonials from donors who have participated in workplace giving programs. Personal stories can resonate with potential contributors and motivate them to get involved. Highlighting the impact of these contributions can also reinforce the importance of workplace giving, as demonstrated in this testimonial blog post from Lehigh University.
  • Make the page easily navigable. Ensure that this page is easy to navigate. Use headings, bullet points, and clear calls to action to guide visitors through the information. Consider adding an FAQ section (like this one from SIL Global) to address common questions and concerns, which can further enhance the user experience.
  • Utilize visuals. Visual aids (like the ones on Save the Children’s Workplace Giving page) can help simplify complex information and make this resource more engaging for visitors. For example, showcasing statistics about the funds raised or the number of lives impacted by the contributions can provide a compelling narrative that encourages participation.

It may also be beneficial to feature stories of the specific projects and activities that benefit from these giving programs. By showcasing missions, goals, and outcomes funded through workplace contributions, you create a deeper connection between the donors and the causes they support. This not only fosters a sense of community but also emphasizes the tangible difference that each contribution makes.

Step #3: Build dedicated pages for Matching Gifts, Volunteer Incentives, and Payroll Giving.

To effectively communicate the specifics of workplace giving, creating dedicated pages for Matching Gifts, Volunteer Incentives, and Payroll Giving is essential. Each resource should focus on one aspect of workplace giving, providing in-depth information and relevant resources, and allowing supporters to focus on the programs that are of most interest to them. Not to mention, this enables teams to market programs individually as well, leading supporters to the most relevant information on a really targeted page on their website.

Top tip: Clone your established Workplace Giving page within your CMS or website builder to create three separate duplicates and get a head start! From there, you can begin editing to adjust the language and content on your Match Page, Volunteers Page, and Payroll Giving Page accordingly.

3.1 Matching Gifts

Many employers offer matching gift programs, where they match donations made by their employees. A dedicated Matching Gifts page should explain how these programs work and why they are beneficial for both the donor and the nonprofit.

Include instructions on how donors can check if their employer participates (such as using an embedded database resource or reaching out to their HR lead). Furthermore, providing links to matching gift forms or resources can streamline the process for donors, making it easier for them to take action.

Take a look at UGA’s matching gift page below, and see how the school really simplifies the process for getting involved with a step-by-step overview and ingrained matching gift plugin tool:

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

For the best results, you’ll want to provide your organization’s tax ID number and mailing address on this page, too, as it often assists supporters with the match request process.

3.2 Volunteer Incentives

Volunteer incentive programs encourage employees to volunteer their time by providing incentives such as volunteer grants or donations for every hour volunteered (or offering paid time off specifically for volunteering). Your Volunteer Incentives page should detail how these programs work and the benefits they offer to both volunteers and the nonprofit.

For the best results, provide information on how volunteers can apply for these grants on your behalf (such as using Double the Donation’s volunteer-specific search plugin), making it easy for individuals to understand the process.

Here’s how Pan-Mass Challenge is promoting corporate volunteer incentives on its main volunteer page, making it quick and easy for supporters to check their eligibility for volunteer grants, VTO, and more:

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

You might also consider adding a section that outlines the types of volunteer opportunities available. For the best results, you’ll want to include both short-term (hours-long projects) as well as longer-term commitments (such as weekly recurring initiatives) to cater to different interests and schedules. This can help potential volunteers find the right fit for their skills and availability, ultimately increasing participation rates.

3.3 Payroll Giving

Finally, your Payroll Giving page should explain how employees can set up automatic deductions from their paychecks to donate to the nonprofit. This method of giving is convenient for donors and can lead to consistent contributions over time.

Include details on how to enroll in payroll giving programs, as well as the benefits of making donations through payroll deductions. With Double the Donation’s payroll giving plugin tool, you can even provide prospective supporters with a direct access link to their company’s payroll giving platform to get signed up!

Check out how St. Jude Children’s Hospital promotes the payroll giving opportunity below, providing step-by-step instructions on how an individual can get involved⁠, even if their company doesn’t currently offer a program!

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

Taking it a few steps further, consider including an FAQ section that addresses common questions about payroll giving, such as how to change donation amounts or what happens if an employee changes jobs. This can help alleviate any concerns potential donors may have and encourage them to take the first step toward making a difference through payroll giving.

Market workplace giving on your website with our corporate giving database.

Step #4: Integrate workplace giving information with your donation form.

Integrating workplace giving information directly into the donation form can significantly enhance an individual’s likelihood of participation. When donors are filling out their information to make a contribution, they should naturally be presented with options related to workplace giving.

Consider adding a simple, optional form field to collect employment data as donors give. When paired with a bit of background regarding the ask (“Enter your employer’s name to uncover workplace giving eligibility”), it’s never been easier to collect the information you need.

Here’s how 50 Mile March promotes matching gifts within the donation form itself, asking donors to search for their employer to discover eligibility for the programs:

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

From there, Double the Donation’s giving form integrations also make it easy to place a reminder about workplace giving opportunities on your confirmation screen, allowing donors to access a quick reminder immediately after they submit their gifts.

Check out how Blue Faery markets the opportunity from their donation confirmation screen, too, with an easily accessible company search tool available to drive next steps immediately after giving:

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

Step #5: Integrate workplace giving information with your volunteer sign-ups.

Just as with the donation form, integrating workplace giving information into volunteer sign-ups can enhance engagement and participation. When potential volunteers express interest in supporting the organization (such as by signing up or registering for a shift), they should also be made aware of workplace giving options⁠—specifically corporate volunteer incentives.

Here’s how one organization collects employment information from the volunteer registration page, making it easy for supporters to provide an essential piece of the workplace giving engagement puzzle:

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

When you collect employment information within sign-ups, you have the ability to provide tailored email follow-ups that inform supporters of their eligibility for workplace volunteer benefits and encourage them to get involved, too.

Wrapping up & additional workplace giving resources

Workplace giving programs are a win-win for donors and nonprofits—supporters amplify their impact, and you unlock funding that’s already waiting to be claimed. By implementing the steps outlined above, your website becomes more than an information hub—it becomes a conversion tool that drives awareness, participation, and revenue.

Don’t leave money on the table. Start with a few simple website updates and grow from there. Over time, consistent visibility and messaging around workplace giving will help you educate donors, segment your audience, and build a more sustainable fundraising pipeline.

Interested in learning more about how to market workplace giving programs for your organization? Check out these additional recommended resources:

Use our appends services to complete your workplace giving donor profiles.

Workplace Giving vs. Payroll Giving What’s the Difference

Workplace Giving vs. Payroll Giving: What’s the Difference?

/in , /by

As nonprofits seek new and sustainable ways to grow donor support, employer-backed giving programs present a powerful opportunity. However, understanding the difference between workplace giving vs. payroll giving is key to making the most of these channels.

While the terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to distinct models of employee giving, each with its own benefits and logistics. In this post, we’ll break down what sets workplace giving apart from payroll giving and how your organization can effectively engage with each to expand your donor base and deepen corporate partnerships.

Specifically, we’ll cover:

By understanding the nuances between these two giving models, your organization can better position itself to connect with engaged donors and align with companies that value social impact. Whether you’re just starting to explore employer-backed giving or looking to enhance your existing efforts, this guide will equip you with the insights and strategies needed to succeed.

Let’s dive in.

What is payroll giving?

Payroll giving is a form of charitable donation in which employees contribute to nonprofits directly from their paychecks, typically on a recurring, pre-tax basis. This method enables donors to contribute regular donations with minimal effort, making it one of the most convenient ways to support a cause over time.

Payroll giving vs. workplace giving illustration

In a payroll giving program, employees choose a nonprofit they’d like to support and specify a donation amount to be automatically deducted from their salary each pay period. These deductions are then processed by the employer or a third-party platform and then disbursed to the nonprofit.

For nonprofits, payroll giving can establish a steady and predictable revenue stream while also deepening long-term donor relationships. Although individual contributions may be modest, their consistency and potential for growth—especially when supported by employer matching programs—can add up significantly over time.

Strategies for increasing payroll donation revenue for nonprofits

What is workplace giving?

Workplace giving, on the other hand, is a broader term that refers to any program or initiative that enables employees to support charitable causes through their employer. Unlike payroll giving, which focuses specifically on paycheck deductions, workplace giving encompasses a wide range of giving opportunities—both financial and non-financial—that are facilitated by the workplace.

These programs can include:

  • Payroll giving/deductions
  • Employer donation matching
  • Volunteer grants or paid Volunteer Time Off
  • Company-sponsored fundraising campaigns
  • Internal charity drives or giving days

Workplace giving vs. payroll giving illustration

Workplace giving is a powerful tool for nonprofit revenue growth, offering a consistent and often underutilized funding stream. By making it easier for employees to support causes they care about, companies create opportunities for nonprofits to tap into recurring donations, matching gifts, and other employer-sponsored contributions.

Participating in workplace giving programs is a smart revenue growth strategy for nonprofits, offering access to new donor networks and a reliable stream of recurring donations. These programs are a gateway to broader corporate giving opportunities—while payroll and matching gifts drive direct funding, they can also open doors to deeper partnerships like event sponsorships, in-kind donations, and employee volunteer programs. By leveraging workplace giving as an entry point, nonprofits can grow both immediate revenue and long-term corporate support.

Better understand and benefit from workplace vs. payroll giving with Double the Donation's.

How do workplace and payroll giving relate?

Workplace giving and payroll giving are closely connected—so much so that they’re often mentioned in the same breath. That’s because payroll giving is actually one component of the broader workplace giving landscape. In other words, all payroll giving is workplace giving, but not all workplace giving is payroll giving.

Workplace Giving vs. Payroll Giving Venn Diagram

While payroll giving refers specifically to donations made directly from an employee’s paycheck, workplace giving encompasses payroll giving and other forms of support, including employer donation matching, fundraising campaigns, and volunteer incentives.

For nonprofits, understanding this relationship is essential. By recognizing payroll giving as a gateway to broader workplace engagement, organizations can utilize it as a foundation for more meaningful partnerships. For example, if a donor starts with payroll deductions, your nonprofit may later be eligible for employer matching funds or featured in a company-wide giving campaign. These connections help build long-term donor loyalty while expanding your reach within supportive companies.

How do workplace and payroll giving differ?

While workplace giving and payroll giving are closely related (and each incredibly valuable for charitable organizations), the two program types differ in scope, structure, and flexibility. As a result, each offers a unique set of advantages for nonprofits and donors alike.

Here’s what you should know about the programs’ differences:

1. Scope:

Payroll giving is a specific type of workplace giving that involves regular, automatic donations taken directly from an employee’s paycheck. In contrast, workplace giving encompasses a broader umbrella that includes payroll giving, as well as programs such as donation matching, charity drives, fundraising events, volunteer grants, and more.

2. Donation Method:

Payroll giving is facilitated through payroll systems, with donations deducted pre- or post-tax (depending on the location or employer setup). Workplace giving, on the other hand, can involve various forms of giving—financial or time-based—that may not be tied to payroll, such as participating in a company-wide giving day or logging volunteer hours to earn grant dollars.

3. Donor Engagement:

Payroll giving is typically a passive, set-it-and-forget-it method. Once an employee signs up, donations occur automatically on a regular basis. Workplace giving, on the other hand, offers more active engagement opportunities, such as team fundraising challenges or company-hosted volunteer events, creating more touchpoints for deeper donor interaction.

4. Employer Involvement:

Employers typically play a larger role in broader workplace giving programs, offering powerful incentives such as donation matching or volunteer time off. Payroll giving may or may not include employer matching and often functions more independently from wider workplace culture initiatives.

Understanding these differences can help nonprofits tailor their outreach and messaging. While payroll giving provides steady, recurring revenue, broader workplace giving programs open the door to deeper engagement and additional corporate support. Both are valuable, and when used together, they can significantly amplify mission impact.

Strategies for making the most of each

To fully tap into the potential of payroll and workplace giving, nonprofits need more than just enrollment—they need a strategic approach. Here are some key ways to maximize visibility, engagement, and long-term impact through these valuable channels:

Get Listed on Workplace Giving Platforms

Many employers use third-party platforms to manage their giving programs, such as Benevity, Bright Funds, America’s Charities, YourCause, and more. Ensure your nonprofit is registered on these platforms so that employees can easily find and support you through payroll giving and other workplace initiatives.

Interested in a step-by-step breakdown of how your organization can register with leading platforms (including direct links to applications)? Check out this guide to get started.

Collect Employment Information From Supporters

One of the simplest yet most powerful steps your nonprofit can take is to ask supporters where they work. Knowing a donor’s employer opens the door to potential payroll giving, matching gift opportunities, and broader workplace giving programs alike.

You can collect this information through donation forms, newsletter sign-ups, volunteer registrations, or follow-up outreach. Even a single field that asks, “Who is your employer?” can provide valuable insight for future outreach and segmentation.

Then, to fill in the remaining gaps in your database, you could even conduct an employer append with a third-party provider!

Payroll giving vs. workplace giving: collecting employment information for both

Once you have this data, you can:

  • Identify companies with active workplace giving or matching gift programs using a workplace giving database.
  • Tailor communication to highlight relevant giving opportunities tied to that employer.
  • Encourage donors to explore whether their workplace offers payroll giving or match options.
  • Reach out to CSR or HR contacts at those companies to explore potential partnerships.

The more you know about where your donors work, the better positioned you are to unlock corporate support, grow donor engagement, and maximize giving potential through employer-backed programs.

Promote Employer Matching

Many employees are unaware that their company offers donation matching, often in addition to other programs, such as payroll giving. Your team can help bridge that gap by creating or leveraging the right resources—like a matching gift lookup tool, FAQs, or social media content—to encourage donors to check if their gift can be doubled.

Payroll giving vs. workplace giving: getting matching gifts involved

For the best results, highlight this in donation forms, confirmation emails, thank-you pages, and other relevant materials.

Share Clear Impact Stories

Whether donors give through payroll deductions or other company-sponsored campaigns, they want to know their contributions matter. Use newsletters, impact reports, and social media content to demonstrate how workplace and payroll gifts make a difference.

Here’s an example of a matching gift success story shared by Lehigh University:

Workplace giving vs. payroll giving examples

You can even tailor these stories for a corporate audience when possible.

Build Relationships with CSR Teams

Kick off your efforts by establishing partnerships with companies’ corporate social responsibility (CSR) or HR teams. Offer to create co-branded promotional materials, provide speakers, host volunteer opportunities, or collaborate on giving campaigns.

These connections can lead to deeper engagement and additional funding beyond payroll giving alone.

Empower Donors to Advocate Internally

Your existing supporters can be your strongest advocates for new and improved workplace giving programs. When relevant, encourage them to nominate your organization for inclusion in their employer’s giving campaigns or volunteer days or provide a warm introduction to their employer.

You can even provide toolkits or one-pagers that they can share with HR or CSR leaders to help make a strong case for employee-directed philanthropy.

Track and Acknowledge Payroll Donations

Payroll donations can be harder to track than direct gifts, but they’re no less meaningful⁠, and managing them effectively is no less crucial. Therefore, collaborate with platform providers to access donor information (when available) and express gratitude to contributors on a regular basis. After all, personalized acknowledgments help retain and grow long-term support.

By combining thoughtful outreach, strong partnerships, and clear communication, your nonprofit can make payroll and workplace giving a powerful, reliable part of your overall fundraising strategy.

Leverage Technology to Simplify Your Efforts

Technology like Double the Donation’s workplace fundraising solutions for nonprofits can help you alert donors to workplace giving opportunities and automate follow-ups. With this tool, you can easily notify supporters when their employer offers matching gifts, payroll giving, or volunteer grants. Automated email reminders and alerts make it simple to encourage donors to take advantage of matching opportunities, boosting your organization’s revenue. By using technology to simplify your strategy, you can ensure that no donation goes unnoticed and maximize corporate support.

Wrapping up & additional workplace giving resources

When it comes to workplace giving vs. payroll giving, understanding the differences between the two strategies is essential for nonprofits seeking to cultivate sustainable donor support through employer-backed programs. While payroll giving offers a reliable stream of pre-tax donations directly from employees, workplace giving encompasses a broader range of opportunities, including corporate matching, fundraising events, and volunteer engagement.

By understanding how each of these models operates and how they appeal to both employees and companies, your organization can tailor outreach strategies more effectively, foster stronger partnerships with businesses, and ultimately unlock new funding channels to support its mission.

Ready to learn more about workplace giving and beyond? Check out these additional recommended resources:

  • Top Workplace Giving Companies: Leading Employers to Know. Discover which companies are setting the standard in employee giving programs. This resource highlights leading employers that actively support workplace giving, offering inspiration and partnership opportunities for your nonprofit.
  • Free Download: Earning More Payroll Donation Revenue. Learn actionable strategies to increase payroll giving contributions. This guide walks nonprofits through best practices for engaging donors, optimizing visibility in workplace programs, and boosting recurring revenue.
  • Free Download: Guide to Developing a Workplace Giving Plan. Build a clear, effective roadmap for your nonprofit’s workplace giving efforts. This comprehensive guide covers goal setting, outreach tactics, and partnership development to help you launch or strengthen your giving plan.

Maximize Workplace Giving and Payroll Giving Success with Double the Donation