Looking for ways to market and promote your business and do good in your community? Donating products and services from your business is one way that small businesses can have an impact, all the while getting the word out and creating good will around their business efforts. Consider the benefits of donating products and services to charity events…
Chances are, your community has plenty of fundraising events and charity auctions and you may already get personal solicitations inviting you to attend or contribute. The silent auction has become the mainstay of many nonprofit organization’s fundraising events and those auction committees are always looking for “items” to auction off. The charity gets the money from the price paid for your donated product or service, and you get the customer and the publicity at the event. Sure, you don’t get the money, but you can deduct the pro bono service from your taxes.
If you are not already getting solicitations asking you to donate to charity events, how can you find ones in which to donate your products or services? Check with your local United Way office—many keep a “master” calendar of events and organizations within their service district. Other places to investigate would be your local schools and school district (or college or trade school if that is a good fit for you), performing arts organizations, and local service clubs. Churches and religious organizations are another option for making charity donations of products and services from your business.
Logistically, consider donating a certificate, along with one of your promotional brochures or marketing flyers. You might even consider putting two flyers with your certificate. This way, the purchaser of the item can find out more about what you do and share it with a friend too. With a certificate, the purchaser has to contact you in order to get the product or service and this gives you the opportunity to get to know them and turn them into a permanent customer.
Also: Should You Use Promotional Products?
How Volunteering Can Help Your Business
Should You Tithe or Give From Your Home Business?