What are the most effective strategies for matching gifts and corporate sponsorships?

2 How to find matching gift and corporate sponsorship opportunities

One of the first steps to take advantage of matching gifts and corporate sponsorships is to research and identify potential corporate donors who have existing programs or policies that align with your goals. You can use online databases, such as Double the Donation or Sponsorship Collective, to search for companies by industry, location, size, or cause. You can also ask your current or prospective donors if their employers offer matching gift or sponsorship programs, and encourage them to check their eligibility and guidelines.

3 How to approach matching gift and corporate sponsorship prospects

Once you have a list of potential corporate donors, you need to craft a compelling and customized proposal that showcases your impact, value proposition, and alignment with their interests. You should also highlight the benefits and recognition that they will receive for matching or sponsoring your donations, such as tax deductions, publicity, employee engagement, or customer loyalty. You should contact the decision-makers or influencers within the company, such as the CSR manager, the marketing director, or the CEO, and use multiple channels, such as email, phone, or social media, to follow up and build rapport.

4 How to steward matching gift and corporate sponsorship donors

After you secure a matching gift or corporate sponsorship agreement, you should not stop there. You should continue to nurture and strengthen your relationship with the corporate donor by thanking them, acknowledging them, reporting on your progress, and inviting them to your events or activities. You should also solicit feedback and suggestions from them, and show them how their support makes a difference for your cause. By doing so, you can increase their satisfaction, loyalty, and retention, and create opportunities for future collaboration or referrals.

5 How to promote matching gift and corporate sponsorship programs

To maximize the potential of matching gifts and corporate sponsorships, you should also promote them widely and effectively to your audience. You should educate your donors about the benefits and procedures of matching gifts and corporate sponsorships, and provide them with the necessary tools and resources to participate. You should also use various platforms and channels, such as your website, email, social media, or direct mail, to communicate and remind your donors about these opportunities. You should also showcase your success stories and testimonials, and celebrate your corporate donors and their contributions.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?