Engaging Small Companies in your fundraising campaign
The UK is home to 5.5 million independent businesses. The vast majority of the UK’s economic output (99.2%) is generated by small businesses – companies with fewer than fifty workers. Many business owners now see their companies as a way to contribute to causes close to their hearts. Research shows that doing so increases sales. There is plenty of space for an increase in the microbusiness sector, as only 2% of charity funding in the UK comes from businesses.
This article examines five key actions your charity or organisation can take when engaging small companies and local enterprises in your fundraising campaign.
1. Determine Your Target Demographic
You will have the best results if you tailor the types of companies you want to approach.
Just who are the people we should be reaching out to if we want them to support our cause? Which types of companies cater to this market?
Your small business plan has the best chance of success if you target that particular demographic and business type.
2. Send Out a Message About Your Cause
Social media is a great way to reach the patrons of small business aid programs. As you go about your outreach efforts, you’ll realise that most businesses are visible on Instagram.
Approach your shortlist of local businesses. Engaging small companies requires you to tell them why your campaign matters, and asking them to join in and spread the word.
3. Get Your Issue Across Effectively
Make it simple and appealing for companies to participate.
In 2020, Leeds Hospitals Charity launched a Christmas campaign called “Sponsor the Sparkle,” intending to raise £35,000 by inviting local businesses to light up a star on the hospital’s exterior.
Explore opportunities for match giving. Small businesses can have their donations doubled or even tripled through ongoing campaigns like the Big Give and Work for Good’s Small Business Star.
4. Use Appropriate Methods
The onboarding process for small business partners begins with the first point of contact. Your social media, supporter care teams, and community must understand how your program operates and provide template answers for prospective partners.
You should have a company sign a commercial participation agreement when you find one committed to supporting your nonprofit and understands the extent of their potential contributions.
Work for Good is an online tool that helps charities track revenue and organise their business partnerships. This tool helps by simplifying the commercial partnership agreement process, pre-qualifying small firms, and pre-qualifying small businesses.
5. Consider it a Joint Venture
You can use the network of “micro-influencers” to partner directly with small businesses with engaged Instagram followings. You can add an organic touch to their influencer strategy by working together.
Children’s Hospice South West has successfully strengthened relationships with its small business partners through “Bitesize Business Breakfast,” a monthly one-hour virtual event. A request for a £300 contribution from businesses was made to reach the goal of £30,000.
Conclusion
Here are a few key things to remember when engaging small companies and approaching them for support. It is essential to research and target companies that are likely receptive to your request.
Ensure you promote your event through social media to reach your local market. Be prepared to follow up with the company and thank them for their donation.
By following these tips, you will be more likely to solicit donations from small companies successfully.
Craigmyle Fundraising Consultants is here for you if you require assistance with your capital campaign strategy. When we deal with non-profits, we take a very professional approach, prioritising organisations in education, the arts and history, religion, and social services. Get in touch with us as soon as possible for additional information!
