How to start matching gift programs for charity
Matching gift programs are an effective and easy way for businesses and employees to at least double the impact of their charitable donations, potentially boosting employee satisfaction, brand equity and more. Under these schemes, when an employee gives to an eligible organisation like Save the Children Australia, they can request their employer to match the donation.
Learn how your organisation can benefit from matching donations and how to get started with Australia's largest aid and development agency dedicated to helping children.
The power of matching gift programs
Amplify your impact
Contributions above $2 are generally tax deductible, so depending on the employee's tax bracket, a $5 donation from pre-tax income can be just $3 out of pocket, if fully matched by the employer this will total a $10 donation supporting more educational programs, health services, and emergency relief.
Enhance business image through corporate social responsibility (CSR)
Supporting charitable causes improves a business's public image and shows its commitment to social good. This translates to real improvements in brand equity with research in America showing that seventy-seven per cent of consumers choose to purchase from companies making the world a better place.
Investors surveyed in the same report also stated that a business’s efforts to improve society and the environment are a factor in their investment decisions, so by offering matched donations and increasing CSR initiatives your organisation may boost revenue and attract increased financing.
Engage your employees
When employees see that their company supports causes they care about, they feel more motivated and engaged. A major survey carried out by Macquarie University highlights that this is particularly important now as the modern workforce is more likely to choose and continue to work for an employer they view as ethical.
Steps to start matching donations
1. Check your current options
Many large corporations already have programs and partnerships in place with charities, talk to relevant internal stakeholders or a quick search of online databases can help you discover what programs you and other companies participate in.
2. launching your program
Once convinced of their efficacy, companies can begin by assessing their budget and determining the parameters of their program, such as matching ratios, donation limits, and eligible programs, and reach out to our team to learn more.
3. Communicating the program to employees
Once the program is established, use internal communications channels like emails, intranet posts, and company meetings to explain how the program works and encourage participation.
4. Streamlining the donation process
Employers should provide clear instructions on how employees can submit their donation requests, and ensure that the process is quick and straightforward. We offer convenient and cost-effective workplace giving for employees and can reach out to employers on their behalf for the easiest set-up possible.
Ready to make a difference?
Consider giving directly from your salary and starting a matching gift program to maximise your charitable impact and improve your organisation’s corporate social responsibility.
Visit our Partners Page for more information or contact us to launch a matching gift program or explore corporate partnership opportunities. Together, we can create lasting change for children around the world.