Imagine being able to double the impact of your charitable donation — without spending an extra penny. Sounds too good to be true, right? But that’s exactly what employer donation matching programs make possible. Many companies offer to match their employees’ donations to nonprofit organizations, effectively multiplying the impact of every dollar given. Yet, billions of dollars in potential matching funds go unclaimed each year simply because employees aren’t aware of these programs. 

If you’ve ever wanted to make your philanthropy go further, this guide will show you how employer matching donations work and why they are a win-win for employees, businesses, nonprofits, and communities alike.

How Does Employer Donation Matching Work?

Employer donation matching, also known as corporate gift matching or corporate matching gifts, is a philanthropic program in which companies match their employees’ charitable contributions to eligible nonprofit organizations. This means that if an employee donates to a qualified charity, their employer will contribute an equal amount, effectively doubling the impact of the donation.

The process typically involves the following steps:

1. Employee donates. An employee donates to a nonprofit of their choice that qualifies under their employer’s matching donations program.
2. Employee submits a matching request. The employee submits a matching gift request through their company’s designated platform, often using a receipt or proof of donation.
3. Company reviews and matches. The employer reviews the request, and if it’s approved, sends a matching donation to the nonprofit.

Many companies set annual limits on how much they will match per employee and may specify certain types of charities they support. The majority of Fortune 500 companies offer matching gift programs, for example, but billions in matching funds go unclaimed each year simply because employees are unaware of or do not take advantage of these programs.

The Benefits of Employer Donation Matching Programs — for Everyone

Companies that match donations create a ripple effect of positive change, benefiting employees, companies, and nonprofits alike.

For Employees: Amplifying Impact and Company Engagement

• Increases the value of donations. Employees can effectively double (or more) the amount they contribute to causes they care about without any additional financial burden.
• Encourages giving. Knowing their donation will be matched can incentivize employees to give more frequently or contribute higher amounts to charitable causes.
• Boosts workplace morale. Employees feel a greater sense of fulfillment and pride in working for a company that supports their philanthropic efforts.
• Enhances employee engagement. Participation in corporate philanthropy programs has been linked to higher job satisfaction and a stronger sense of purpose in the workplace.

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For Companies: Strengthening Corporate Social Responsibility

• Improves brand reputation. Employers who match donations build a positive public image and enhance their brand reputation as socially responsible businesses.
• Attracts and retains talent. Younger generations, particularly millennials and Gen Z, prioritize working for companies with strong social values. A well-structured matching gift program can make a company more appealing to job seekers.
• Provides tax benefits. Many corporate donations are tax-deductible, reducing a company’s taxable income while supporting worthy causes.

• Increases employee retention and loyalty. Employees who see their employer supporting their personal values and interests are more likely to stay with the company long-term.
• Enhances corporate culture. Fostering a positive company culture that includes giving to nonprofits creates a more engaged and cohesive workforce.

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For Nonprofits: Unlocking Critical Funding

• Maximizes donations. Matching gifts can significantly increase the amount of funding nonprofits receive, enabling them to expand programs and services.

• Increases awareness. Many nonprofits benefit from increased visibility as employees introduce their colleagues and employers to causes they support.

• Encourages sustainable giving. Consistent employer-matched contributions can lead to more predictable revenue streams, allowing nonprofits to plan and allocate resources more effectively.

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For Society: A Broader Impact on Communities

• Supports a wide range of causes. Employer donation matching programs contribute to various charitable causes, such as vital animal welfare programs.

• Encourages a culture of giving. As more businesses and employees participate, charitable giving becomes a standard practice in corporate culture and beyond.

• Creates meaningful change. With billions of dollars in potential corporate donations left unclaimed each year, increased awareness and participation in matching programs can lead to substantial improvements in communities worldwide.

Employer donation matching programs are a win-win for everyone involved. By participating in these programs, employees and companies alike can foster a culture of generosity that benefits individuals and communities on a large scale. If you haven’t already, check if your employer offers a matching gift program — you might be able to double your impact with just a few simple steps.

Employees and Employers Can Work Together to Help Save Pets in Need

Established in 2006 by a group of veterinarians and concerned community members, the Foundation for Animal Care and Education (FACE) is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) public charity that provides financial grants for critical and lifesaving veterinary care when pet owners are unable to fully afford the cost of treatment. Without this assistance, many beloved family pets are needlessly euthanized solely due to financial constraints.

Your tax-deductible donation funds life-saving veterinary care for beloved family pets. See if your company will participate in gift matching. View this page for a list of companies that offer employer matching programs. 

You can also support us by donating items from our Amazon Wish List; by donating your new, unused collars, leashes, blankets, unopened pet food, and other supplies; by shopping at our Wag N’ Purr Shop; and in many other ways.

Please help us end economic euthanasia by giving today.

Thank you!