How Universities Can Grow Volunteer Grant Revenue

Colleges and universities play a vital role in shaping the future by educating students, conducting research, and engaging with communities. To support these missions, many schools rely heavily on volunteers who contribute their time and expertise. However, beyond the invaluable service volunteers provide, there is an often-overlooked opportunity to increase funding through volunteer grants.

Volunteer grants are a powerful way for universities to amplify the impact of their volunteer programs. By understanding and leveraging these grants, universities can unlock new revenue streams without asking for additional donations. This article will explore how universities can grow volunteer grant revenue effectively, helping them maximize both volunteer engagement and financial support.

What are volunteer grants?

Volunteer grants are donations made by a volunteer’s employer to a nonprofit organization in recognition of the time their employee spends volunteering. These grants serve as a form of corporate giving or employee engagement, designed to encourage and reward community involvement. Essentially, when an employee volunteers their time, their company may provide a financial gift to the nonprofit where the volunteering took place.

Typically, volunteer grants are structured around the number of hours an employee volunteers. For example, a company might donate a set amount for every 10 or 20 hours volunteered, often requiring a minimum number of hours before the grant is awarded. This system incentivizes employees to contribute more time and helps nonprofits receive additional funding tied directly to volunteer efforts.

Despite their potential, volunteer grants remain relatively unknown, even among eligible volunteers. Many people who qualify for these grants are unaware of the programs or how to apply. This lack of awareness means that many nonprofits, including universities, miss out on a valuable source of funding. Educating volunteers and supporters about volunteer grants is therefore critical to unlocking this untapped resource.

Volunteer grants can significantly amplify the value of volunteer contributions. Not only do volunteers provide their time and skills, but their efforts can also translate into meaningful financial support. This dual benefit makes volunteer grants an essential tool for nonprofits looking to strengthen their funding base while deepening community engagement.

How volunteer grants fit into corporate social responsibility

Volunteer grants are often part of broader corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Companies use these programs to demonstrate their commitment to social good and to foster a culture of giving among employees. By supporting volunteer grants, businesses can enhance their reputation, improve employee morale, and build stronger community ties.

For universities, partnering with companies that have active CSR programs can open doors to sustained funding and collaboration opportunities. Understanding the role of volunteer grants within CSR helps nonprofits align their outreach and engagement strategies with corporate priorities.

Common requirements for volunteer grants

Most volunteer grant programs have specific eligibility criteria. These often include a minimum number of volunteer hours, documentation of the volunteer activity, and submission of a grant request form. Some companies may limit grants to certain types of nonprofits or causes, so it’s important for universities to verify program details.

By familiarizing themselves with these requirements, university volunteer coordinators can better assist volunteers in navigating the application process and ensuring successful grant submissions.

Why do volunteer grants matter for universities?

Volunteer grants offer universities a unique opportunity to secure essential funding without asking for additional financial contributions from their supporters. This makes volunteer grants a high-return-on-investment (ROI) opportunity that can significantly enhance a university’s resource base.

Universities often rely heavily on volunteers, including alumni, faculty, staff, and community members, who contribute time to mentoring, tutoring, event support, and more. These volunteer efforts are critical to the institution’s success and community impact. Volunteer grants allow universities to translate this volunteer time into tangible financial support, effectively multiplying the value of each hour donated.

For example, imagine 10 volunteers each logging 20 hours of service. If their employers offer volunteer grants of $10 per hour, the university could receive $2,000 in additional funding. This money can be directed toward scholarships, program development, research initiatives, or facility improvements—areas that directly benefit students and faculty.

Moreover, volunteer grants align well with the mission-driven nature of universities. They encourage community involvement and foster partnerships between educational institutions and the corporate sector. By tapping into volunteer grants, universities can strengthen these relationships and demonstrate the broader social impact of their volunteer programs.

Supporting academic programs and research through volunteer grants

Volunteer grants can be strategically used to support specific academic programs or research projects. For instance, volunteers who assist in STEM outreach or community education initiatives can help generate funding that directly supports these efforts. This targeted funding helps universities expand their offerings and reach more students.

Enhancing student engagement and community partnerships

Universities often engage students in volunteer activities as part of service-learning or extracurricular programs. Volunteer grants can provide additional resources to enhance these experiences, such as funding for materials, transportation, or recognition events. This creates a virtuous cycle where volunteerism leads to more funding, which in turn supports further engagement.

How to identify volunteer grant opportunities for universities

Identifying volunteer grant opportunities begins with understanding which volunteers work for companies that offer these programs. Universities should prioritize gathering this information during volunteer onboarding, in event registrations, or through follow-up engagement surveys. Asking volunteers about their employers early on helps build a database of potential grant sources.

From there, encouraging volunteers to check with their human resources departments or corporate intranet sites can also uncover available volunteer grant programs. Many companies provide detailed information and application instructions internally, so volunteers may need guidance on where to look.

Analyzing existing volunteer data can reveal trends or highlight companies that already support the university’s cause. Segmenting communications by employer allows for personalized outreach, increasing the likelihood that volunteers will apply for grants.

For universities, it’s helpful to focus on industries relevant to their mission. For example, tech firms may support STEM education initiatives, while healthcare companies might be interested in health-related community programs. Local businesses may also have volunteer grant programs aligned with community development or sustainability efforts.

Leveraging technology for grant identification

Utilizing volunteer grant databases and tools, such as Double the Donation, can streamline the search process. These platforms compile information on thousands of companies with volunteer grant programs, making it easier for universities to identify matches based on their volunteer base.

In other words, technology can automate much of the research and tracking process. Platforms that integrate with volunteer management software can flag eligible volunteers and send reminders about grant opportunities, simplifying the process for both staff and volunteers.

Companies that offer volunteer grants for universities

Many large employers with active corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives offer volunteer grant programs that are highly relevant to universities. Companies like Microsoft, Dell, United Health Group, and ExxonMobil are prime examples of organizations that encourage employee community involvement through volunteer grants.

Microsoft and Dell, as leaders in the technology sector, often support educational initiatives, particularly those focused on STEM fields. Their volunteer grants can help universities fund technology labs, coding workshops, or scholarship programs.

United Health Group, a major player in healthcare, frequently offers volunteer grants that align with health education, wellness programs, and community health outreach. Universities with nursing, public health, or medical programs can benefit from these grants to enhance their community impact.

ExxonMobil, a global energy company, supports volunteerism related to environmental sustainability, education, and community development. Universities engaged in environmental science or engineering research may find valuable partnerships through ExxonMobil’s volunteer grant programs.

By analyzing the employment affiliations of their volunteer base, universities can identify which supporters are connected to these companies and encourage them to apply for volunteer grants. This approach helps universities tap into existing networks and maximize funding opportunities.

Characteristics of companies with volunteer grant programs

Companies offering volunteer grants typically have structured CSR departments, clear program guidelines, and dedicated resources to manage grant applications. They value community engagement and see volunteer grants as a way to extend their social impact beyond direct donations.

Industry diversity and grant alignment

Volunteer grant programs span various industries, including technology, healthcare, finance, energy, and manufacturing. Universities should consider the interests and missions of these industries when identifying potential grant opportunities to ensure alignment with their programs and goals.

How to promote volunteer grants to university supporters

Many volunteers are unaware that volunteer grant programs exist, so raising awareness is crucial. Universities should incorporate information about volunteer grants into multiple communication touchpoints to ensure consistent and clear messaging.

Including volunteer grant details in onboarding materials and thank-you emails is an effective way to introduce new volunteers to the opportunity early. This sets expectations and encourages volunteers to track their hours and inquire about grants.

Creating a dedicated page or FAQ section on the university’s website provides a centralized resource where volunteers can learn about volunteer grants, eligibility criteria, and application steps. This transparency helps demystify the process and encourages participation.

Newsletters, social media posts, and event signage offer additional channels to highlight volunteer grants. Featuring success stories or testimonials from volunteers who have secured grants can motivate others to get involved.

Training staff and volunteer coordinators to remind supporters about volunteer grants during interactions ensures the message is reinforced. These team members can provide guidance, answer questions, and assist with the application process.

Making the process as simple and accessible as possible is key. Providing clear instructions, downloadable templates, and a designated point of contact for help reduces barriers and increases the likelihood of successful grant submissions.

Effective promotion not only boosts volunteer grant participation but also helps universities turn volunteer time into additional funding. This creates a lasting impact on the institution’s mission and strengthens community ties.

Integrating volunteer grant promotion into volunteer management

Embedding volunteer grant information into volunteer management software and workflows ensures that the opportunity is consistently communicated. Automated reminders and tracking features can help volunteers stay engaged and informed.

Using storytelling to inspire participation

Sharing stories of how volunteer grants have supported university programs or students can inspire volunteers to take action. Highlighting the tangible benefits of these grants makes the opportunity more relatable and compelling.

Volunteer grant FAQ for universities

Who is eligible to apply for volunteer grants?

Eligibility typically depends on the volunteer’s employer offering a volunteer grant program. Volunteers must meet the minimum hour requirements and follow their company’s application process. Universities should encourage volunteers to verify eligibility with their HR departments.

Can volunteers apply for grants on behalf of the university?

Yes, in most cases, volunteers submit the grant application directly to their employer, naming the university as the recipient organization. Universities can support this by providing necessary documentation and guidance.

Are volunteer grants taxable income for the university?

Volunteer grants are generally considered charitable donations and are not taxable income for the nonprofit organization. However, universities should consult with their finance or legal departments to confirm based on local regulations.

How long does it take to receive funds from volunteer grants?

The timeline varies by company but typically ranges from a few weeks to a few months after the application is submitted. Universities should plan accordingly and communicate expected timelines to volunteers.

Can volunteer grants be used for any university program or expense?

Most volunteer grants are unrestricted donations, allowing universities to allocate funds where they are most needed. However, some companies may have specific guidelines or preferences, so it’s important to review each program’s terms.

---

Wrapping Up & Next Steps

Volunteer grants are a powerful, often underutilized, source of funding for colleges and universities. With a wide network of alumni, faculty, staff, and community partners regularly volunteering their time, institutions of higher education are well-positioned to benefit from corporate volunteer grant programs. By implementing systems to track volunteer hours and educate your university community about these opportunities, you can unlock additional funding to support scholarships, campus initiatives, and student services—without asking for more out-of-pocket donations.

Getting Started with Double the Donation Volunteering

Looking to streamline your volunteer tracking and maximize revenue from volunteer grants? Double the Donation Volunteering helps universities connect volunteer engagement with corporate giving programs that reward service with dollars. Whether you’re managing alumni service events, student-led initiatives, or faculty volunteerism, our platform makes it easy to capture employment data, identify eligibility, and grow your institution’s fundraising impact. Get started today and turn volunteer time into tangible financial support for your campus.

Request a personalized demo to begin growing your revenue!