School Fundraising: The Power Of Match Funding
6 August 2024
Many companies throughout the UK offer employees the chance to boost their fundraising efforts by ‘matching’ the money they raise. By reaching out to working parents, your school could potentially double the amount of cash it raises.
What is Match Funding?
Match funding is a straightforward method to amplify the fundraising efforts of individual school volunteers. It’s an informal, corporate arrangement between a company and its employee. Typically, a company pledges to match a sum of money related to the amount the employee has either raised or donated to a charity. Although there may be upper limits and specific criteria, such as the recipient organisation being a registered charity, the benefits are substantial. Some companies may even pledge time and resources instead of money, allowing their employees to support a cause during their working hours or offering tangible services like printing posters or newsletters.
Which Organisations Support Match Funding?
While it’s challenging to provide a definitive list of companies offering match funding due to varying criteria and frequently changing schemes, certain sectors are known to participate. Banks, building societies, insurance companies, supermarkets, utilities providers, phone companies, and car manufacturers often have match funding schemes. Encourage your supporters to check with their employers about the possibility of match funding or the potential to set up a scheme.
Match funding schemes can be adopted by any company, regardless of size. For instance, Barclays offers its employees the chance to match funds they raise for their chosen charity up to £750 per year for three activities. Similarly, Aviva has a ‘£Plus’ matching scheme, allowing employees to receive matched funds for money raised on behalf of a registered charity of their choice.
How to Get Started
To kick off match funding, harness the support of parents by asking them to enquire with their employers about existing matched giving schemes. Encourage parents to approach their bosses directly. If you find a company willing to match fund, spread the word to ensure maximum participation. Conducting an internet search can also help identify local employers known to match fund, providing a starting point for parents to approach.
Once a company agrees to match fund, they may require the employee to complete a request form. If not, request the company to put their pledge in writing to the school. It’s essential to formally acknowledge the contributions made by companies and their employees.
Raising Awareness & Maximising Benefits
To ensure the success of match funding, spread the word about its benefits among parents. Explain that the process is straightforward and cost-free, aside from the time taken to talk to employers. Once you’ve identified volunteers eligible for match funding through their employers, use this opportunity wisely. For instance, assign a parent volunteer to the most lucrative stall at the summer fair if their employer matches the money raised. This strategy not only maximises funds but also builds a rapport with local businesses, potentially leading to further support like raffle or auction prizes.
Top Tips for Match Funding Success
- Research: Conduct an internet search to identify local employers known to offer match funding.
- Spread the Word: Inform all parents about companies willing to match fund.
- Communicate: Send letters to parents explaining the scheme, the fundraising goals, and a list of local companies that match fund.
By leveraging match funding, your school can significantly enhance its fundraising efforts, supporting vital projects and activities.
Find Out More About ComplyEd
To find out more about how the ComplyEd Web App can benefit your school, contact a member of the team to book a no-obligation chat and a demonstration of our platform.