It’s a Win-Win! Why & How Small Businesses Support Nonprofits in this Tough Economy

The recession is in full tilt! And, as a nonprofit, it often can seem downright uncomfortable to make an ask to a local firm that is struggling to maintain its business.

Here are a few ideas that might help you approach local businesses. First, if you’ve worked with the group before and have a feeling that they’ll need to cut back on a donation, try beating them to the punch by sharing your understanding of the economy and how it is affecting your donations as well as the business community. Suggest that, perhaps, there is a way a continued relationship could be built as a win-win partnership.

Idea 1: Suggest that some of their fixed marketing budget could be co-branded with your organization for a specific project. As partners, you could jointly host a press conference, produce lawn signs, and clearly articulate the company’s support for your charitable cause, even in a tough economy. For instance, you could agree your nonprofit would receive 10% on every “company” coupon brought in that is co-branded with your agency. The funds would go to support a specific charitable project.

Idea 2: Remind small business owners that donating services to charity groups, churches, schools and other nonprofits can increase the company’s local visibility with their customers, deepen community business ties and even create opportunities for new business. Share with business owners any stories you have that emphasize how small business and nonprofit relationships can be mutually beneficial.