What a company wants in its nonprofit partner

But what does a company want in their nonprofit partner?

That’s the question the good folks at For Momentum were looking to answer with their 2015 Corporate Partner Survey. Remember, always be careful with survey responses because what people say is not always what they actually do. This can be especially true when it comes to areas like philanthropy, parenting, and performance. Generally speaking, we perceive ourselves in a positive light and want others to perceive us that way as well. This makes us respond to questions as the best versions of ourselves – something we may not always be in all situations in real life.

Okay, survey caveat aside, there are still some great insights in the report (insights – not facts). Here’re a few key points for you.

Alignment is key between a company and its nonprofit partner

A company’s brand is paramount to its success and identity so it is little surprise that they are only interested in aligning themselves with partners whose brand fits with theirs. This can be size or influence, like Coca-Cola and WWF for example, or more with set priorities like Bell and their commitment to mental health.

This also isn’t too surprising. Companies fit more under the ‘major donor’ category of how they should be treated (even though they often need a lot more effort and account for less revenue). And unlike donors, whose motivations can often be complex, a mix of factors and change over time, companies will often have established criteria for supporting organizations. You just need to invest the time to understand their focus and try to match up your organization to theirs.

Also, a business 101 reminder, companies exist to maximize shareholder wealth (publicly traded ones at least). Exercises in charity and philanthropy by companies must help them towards their goal in some way. Increased sales, greater brand or employee retention are examples of possible benefits to companies by working with nonprofit partners. And while companies, particular younger ones, are focusing more on social benefit, that focus is still very much tied to a fundamental belief that it will in some way help them meet their business and bottom line objectives.

It’s Still About Impact (and proof)

Data is a form of reporting to shareholders, stakeholders and customers. It’s incredibly important for the company to have so they can show those groups, and the world, that they are in fact helping make a difference. This is not typically an area of strength for nonprofits and it can be quite complex and costly to do. But that’s where #2 on the list, stories that show impact, comes in. In the absence of quantifiable data and robust tracking measures, great individual stories that show impact can be great substitutes.

Keep in mind the two audiences for companies as well. The numbers are great for annual reports, board members and financial types but the stories of impact can work wonders for employees, customers, and the public. It’s best to have both and have them work hand in hand.

This is the one I raised the biggest eyebrow at. I do believe that companies want to help their nonprofit partners, but the #1 most important measurement of success for partnerships is the opportunity to impact the nonprofit’s mission? It sounds like a result from a nonprofit focused survey or a leading question, but the fact remains that impact, through the nonprofit’s work, is important to decision-makers.

This is great and a way for company and its nonprofit partner to develop a tighter relationship, see more impact in their community and provide better employee engagement (more on that later). It’s also an opportunity for smaller, local nonprofits to work with bigger companies with larger budgets and more developed employee giving programs.

Selection Is All Over The Place

You’re not that unique. And you are not the company’s only option to work through.

There can be lots of red tape involved in making a decision.

With red tape and different departments comes more time required. But which time of year doesn’t seem to be too important.

Engaging Employees Is Essential – For Both Parties

More than 75% of companies consider how to engage employees when selecting a nonprofit partner. And last, but not least, are the employees themselves. Having employees engage with their nonprofit partners provides a great story for the company to tell – to future employees and the public at large – but also strengthens the bonds between the two organizations. It’s one thing to write a cheque, another to fundraise from staff and yet another to have people give up their time and get their hands dirty with an organization.

Employee engagement is also where nonprofits can often get the most return out of a corporate partner. Employees become volunteers. Volunteers become donors. Donors become regular supporters. And because these folks live and work together, day in and day out, you have some already established networks that advocates and fans can make great inroads into.