If you are part of a non-profit organization, you probably understand just how important it is to get donations to help run your organization. Your organization might get plenty of donations from individuals and smaller businesses, but now, you could be interested in corporate sponsorship opportunities. After all, you might have heard that many big businesses and corporations make donations to organizations like yours all the time, and you could be thinking this is a good way to raise funds that your organization really needs.
Not Asking
One big mistake that many leaders in non-profit organizations make is never asking for donations from corporations in the first place. You should not assume that bigger corporations will not donate to your organization. Many corporations donate large amounts of money to non-profit organizations each year. Generally, there is nothing negative that comes from asking one of these corporations to donate to your organization, other than the fact that it takes a little bit of time. Therefore, you shouldn't hesitate about asking different corporations to see if they will help with your cause.
Not Asking The Right Companies
Of course, if you want to increase your chances of success when asking for donations for your non-profit organization, you should ask the right companies. In many cases, corporations will only donate to local organizations in the areas where they operate businesses, so this is one of the first things you should pay attention to. Additionally, choosing companies that are related to your organization type — such as asking a pet store chain for help when you run a pet-related non-profit organization — can often help increase your chances of getting help.
Not Providing Enough Information
When you reach out to potential corporate sponsors, make sure that you provide ample information about your organization, what your organization is going to use the funds for and more. If you can provide your website URL or a brochure or booklet that describes more about your organization and its causes, you should do so. If you provide more information, you can increase the chances of getting a donation. Plus, it's always a good thing to raise awareness about your cause.
Giving Up Too Soon
If you finally work up the courage to ask a corporation for donations for your organization, you might end up being very upset or disappointed if the first corporation that you ask turns you down. However, you shouldn't let this cause you to give up. Instead, continue asking other corporations for help. Eventually, you should find some that will want to help your organization and cause.
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