The NonProfit Times - June 15, 2008 - (Page 17)

GRANTS Continued from page 11 staff to nonprofits that need expertise in such areas as accounting or public relations. Companies also may make small grants to organizations where their employees volunteer. “NON-PHILANTHROPIC” SUPPORT Corporate funding can also take the form of sponsorships or cause-related marketing (CRM).The funding comes not from money earmarked for charitable contributions but from another budget, such as marketing. In the case of sponsorships, a corporation might underwrite an event or program in return for exposure on a large scale, such as the Olympics, or locally, such as buying a table at your annual ball. CRM is intended to promote the company’s product or service while raising money for the nonprofit. CRM can be as simple as an agreement to donate a percent- backyard. Research where a company’s headquarters, plants, field offices, and subsidiaries are located. • While exploring your own backyard, don’t forget local small businesses. They are a great source for in-kind gifts, such as gift certificates to use as volunteer incentives or products for your silent auction. • Think about what your organization has to offer the business. Does your nonprofit offer services that could be used by the company’s employees? Could a partnership between your organization and a specific company help that firm sell more products or reach new customers? For example, if your agency works with children, you could focus on toy companies. • Know the work affiliations of your donors, board members, and volunteers. If someone affiliated with your organization is also affiliated with a specific company, that company may give t 1s ts! ne n Ju scou yi r b rd d te i gis ly B Re Ear for Many health-related charities will not accept funding from companies with tobacco interests. age of the purchase price for a particular item to a charity,or it can be more complex, such as an affinity credit card or the “leasing”of a nonprofit’s logo to promote a product. In most cases, companies are more likely to be interested in large, well-known nonprofits with excellent reputations. Smaller organizations, however, should not overlook opportunities with smaller companies. For instance, a local supermarket might set aside specific days when a percentage of profits will be donated to a particular organization. TIPS FOR SEEKING CORPORATE SUPPORT When looking to the business community for funding, grantseekers must consider the critical question, “How do we align the work of our organization with the philanthropic and business interests of the company?” Strategies to consider include: • Companies tend to give where they do business, so your first tactic might be to find out who’s in your grants where its employees volunteer, match employee contributions, or provide volunteers you could use. OTHER CONSIDERATIONS When working with corporate partners, make sure you research the company and clearly understand all of their expectations up front to avoid conflicts with your organization’s programs and values. For example, many health-related charities will not accept funding from companies with tobacco interests.You might want to create a gift acceptance policy that outlines the conditions under which you will accept donations.Your good name and position in the community are important assets to be protected. NPT Pattie Johnson has been the director of the Foundation Center’s regional center in Atlanta since it opened in 1993. She has worked in academic, public, special, and law libraries and has extensive experience in the nonprofit sector. July 23-25, 2008 Hilton Washington, Washington, DC. Our attendees can’t wait to use the strategies they learn at the Bridge Conference. And who can blame them? These real-world proven fundraising and direct response techniques come from some of the top experts in the country, at this premier educational conference. You’ll learn, connect, network and find vendors who can help you boost membership, find new revenue streams and build relationships with buyers, donors and members. Give us three days and we’ll give you the freshest, best and most innovative strategies and tips. For up-to-date attendee information: www.bridgeconf.org Bridge Conference 2008 Marketing. Fundraising. It's All Here. JUNE 15, 2008 THE NONPROFIT TIMES www.nptimes.com 17 http://www.bridgeconf.org http://www.bridgeconf.org http://www.nptimes.com/desktop http://www.nptimes.com

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The NonProfit Times - June 15, 2008 Fundraising Fizzles For Myanmar And China Complaints Filed Against Grant Institute Nonprofit Styles Aren't Out Of Fashion Contents Lights. Camera. Action. Calendar New Boss At Gates Approaching Businesses Big Isn't Always Better Obama And You 'Always Do Right' New Boss At NCNA Three Networks Will Air $100 Million Cancer Fundraiser NPT Jobs Resource Directory

The NonProfit Times - June 15, 2008

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