Nonprofits thrive on generosity—from individual donors to corporate partners. In a world where giving is not just encouraged but expected, businesses have stepped up as major contributors to nonprofit efforts. Whether you’re running a local charity or a national nonprofit, understanding how to secure nonprofit donations from companies can be a game-changer for your funding strategy.
This guide walks you through the essentials of nonprofit donations, highlights walmart donations request significantly in recent years, and gives you actionable tips on how to request donations for nonprofits—including how to submit an Amazon donation request.
What Are Nonprofit Donations?
Nonprofit donations are financial gifts, goods, services, or time given to nonprofit organizations to help support their missions. These donations can come from individuals, foundations, or businesses. For nonprofits, these contributions are critical—they fund operations, expand programs, and support community impact.
There are different types of donations:
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Monetary donations: Cash or direct deposits.
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In-kind donations: Goods like food, clothing, or equipment.
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Volunteer time: Skilled or general volunteer hours.
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Matching gifts: Corporate programs that match employee donations.
The key to unlocking these resources is knowing who to ask—and how to ask them.
Why Companies Donate to Nonprofits
Businesses give to nonprofits for several reasons:
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Corporate social responsibility (CSR): Many companies have formal programs to support community causes.
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Brand reputation: Giving back builds goodwill and public trust.
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Employee engagement: Supporting nonprofits helps attract and retain talent who value purpose-driven work.
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Tax benefits: Charitable contributions are often tax-deductible.
Understanding these motivators helps nonprofits frame their asks more effectively.
Companies That Donate to Nonprofits
A growing number of businesses, both large and small, offer charitable giving programs. Some donate cash, others offer matching gifts, product donations, or sponsorships.
Here are some companies that donate to nonprofits regularly:
1. Walmart
Offers local community grants ranging from $250 to $5000. Their focus includes education, hunger relief, and community development.
2. Google
Through the Google Ad Grants program, eligible nonprofits receive $10,000 per month in free advertising credit. They also match employee donations.
3. Microsoft
Provides technology donations (software and cloud services) and matches employee gifts up to $15,000 annually.
4. Coca-Cola
Supports nonprofits through cash grants and in-kind product donations, especially those focused on education and the environment.
5. Amazon
Amazon has multiple channels for nonprofit donations, including AmazonSmile, product donations, and grant programs (more on that below).
6. Target
Donates to K-12 schools and nonprofits through community engagement programs and local store donations.
7. Starbucks
Supports nonprofits through The Starbucks Foundation and local store-led community service initiatives.
These are just a few examples of companies who donated in impactful ways. Many more local and regional businesses are also worth approaching.
How to Request Donations for Nonprofits
To get donations from companies, you need a solid strategy. Here’s a simple process:
Step 1: Research Companies That Align with Your Mission
Target businesses whose values match your cause. A food bank might approach grocery stores; a youth mentoring nonprofit might approach tech companies focused on education.
Step 2: Create a Donation Request Letter
Your letter should include:
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A short intro about your nonprofit
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What you’re requesting (money, goods, gift cards, sponsorship)
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How their support will make a difference
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Recognition or publicity you’ll offer in return
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Your nonprofit tax ID and contact info
Keep it short and clear. Personalize it when possible.
Step 3: Apply Through Official Channels
Many companies have online forms or portals. Follow their guidelines exactly—missing info can get your request skipped.
Step 4: Follow Up and Say Thanks
Even if the answer is no, always send a thank-you. It sets the tone for future requests and shows professionalism.
How to Submit an Amazon Donation Request
Amazon supports nonprofits in multiple ways, and they’ve streamlined their giving programs over the years. If you’re looking to submit an Amazon donation request, here’s what you need to know:
1. AmazonSmile Program
This program allowed customers to select a nonprofit to receive 0.5% of their eligible purchases. As of early 2023, Amazon phased this program out—but nonprofits can still benefit from other giving channels.
2. Amazon Community Grants
Amazon offers local grants to nonprofits focused on education, housing, and disaster relief. To apply:
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Visit the Amazon Corporate Responsibility or Community Engagement webpage.
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Look for local giving programs or contact a fulfillment center near your area.
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You’ll often need to submit through a form that includes your nonprofit’s EIN and details about your request.
3. Amazon Product Donations
Some nonprofits qualify for in-kind donations through Amazon’s surplus goods program. These are usually distributed via partnerships with vetted nonprofit networks, so it helps to be registered with organizations like Good360.
Best Practices for Getting Corporate Donations
Here are a few extra tips to boost your chances of receiving donations for nonprofits from companies:
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Build relationships before you ask. Attend local business events and introduce your nonprofit to business leaders.
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Keep your website updated. Make it easy for companies to learn about your mission and impact.
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Show outcomes. Be ready to explain how previous donations were used and what difference they made.
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Leverage social proof. Highlight other companies that have supported you in the past.
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Offer publicity. A logo on your website, a shoutout on social media, or a spot in your newsletter can be a great incentive.
Final Thoughts
Securing nonprofit donations from companies takes time, persistence, and a little strategy—but the payoff is worth it. With more companies adopting social impact programs, there’s a growing opportunity for nonprofits to receive both monetary and in-kind support.
Whether you’re sending an Amazon donation request or reaching out to companies that donate to nonprofits like Walmart, Target, or Microsoft, the key is clarity, alignment, and gratitude. Stay organized, tell your story well, and always follow through.
Your next big donation could be one email away.
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