Focusing on corporate support is smart: Companies give away billions to nonprofits each year, and these contributions are growing, even as overall charitable giving is on the decline.
But it can be hard to know how best to approach a potential corporate partner, present an appealing case for support, and build a long-term relationship that will benefit both organizations.
Plus, working with companies requires patience. It typically takes about 18 months for successful partnerships to come to fruition, says David Hessekiel, founder of Engage for Good. Corporate partnerships are complex: With frequent budgeting and planning cycles, busy schedules, changes in personnel, required approvals, and other factors, these alliances are not for organizations with short timelines.
Read on for advice, ideas, and case studies that can help you jump-start your strategy to engage businesses and increase corporate support.
Editor’s note: Chronicle tool kits are updated on an ongoing basis as new advice becomes available.
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Grant Seeking7 Ways to Secure Corporate Partnerships — and Make the Most of Them
Corporate-giving strategists share what works in closing the deal on grants and other valuable types of support from companies. -
Corporate Support
Savvy Ways to Land Corporate Support for a Fundraising Event — and Build Deeper Ties
Seasoned fundraisers and event-planning consultants share ways to stand out from the crowd and successfully navigate corporate support for events in 2023. -
Corporate Support
Why — and How — Nonprofits Should Build Ties With Startups
A founder of several startups offers tips and examples to help you approach startup companies, get them involved, and build long-term relationships and sources of revenue. -
Corporate Support
Attracting Corporate Support: One Nonprofit Leader’s Approach
The corporate giving landscape has shifted as many businesses have changed the causes they support and the ways they work with grantees in response to the crises. Here’s some expert advice on navigating the new terrain. -
Advice
How to Attract Corporate Support for a Gala
Consider all the ways your nonprofit interacts with companies and customize sponsorship deals -
Advice
8 Ways Nonprofits Can Make the Most of Pro Bono Consultants
The head of the Morgan Stanley Foundation shares lessons learned from more than a decade of running a pro bono employee-engagement program. -
Advice
The 10 Commandments of Corporate Partnerships
Listen more than you talk; be patient; deliver on your promises, and support a company’s business goals.
