Page 29 - Nonprofit Fundraising Guide

27 RETHINKING CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS IN 2025: 28

FROM SPONSORSHIPS TO SHARED SOLUTIONS

T he sponsorship model is fading. The most effective corporate

partnerships now focus on solving problems, engaging people, and
creating shared value - not just placing a logo.

Here’s how to adapt.

1. SOLVE, DON’T SELL 3. DON’T LIMIT YOURSELF TO OBVIOUS MATCHES 4. CO-CREATE FOR STAYING POWER

Companies invest in causes that help achieve business goals like brand A pet store and animal charity make sense. But some of the most Partnerships built together last longer than those bought off the
lift, employee retention, community leadership, customer connection. creative partnerships form around shared values, audiences, and shelf. Invite the company to help shape the initiative, from concept to
Find out what those goals are, then design opportunities that address community reach, not just mission. A tech company and environmental execution. Co-creation builds ownership and loyalty.
them and advance your mission. nonprofit can align on innovation. A bank and youth group can team up
on financial literacy. QUICK TIP: Replace “Here’s what we offer” with “Here’s what we could
QUICK TIP: Lead your first meeting with questions, not a pitch deck. build together.”

2. MAKE EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT THE GATEWAY BOTTOM LINE:

In 2025, employee engagement is a top driver of corporate giving. The nonprofits that thrive in corporate partnerships this year will
Hands-on volunteering, skills-based projects, and co-created programs stop chasing sponsorships and start matching missions to business
give employees a personal stake and make it easier for a company to objectives, creating programs employees love, and inviting companies
commit long-term. into the design process. The result: stronger relationships, deeper
impact, and better outcomes for everyone involved.
QUICK TIP: Ask how the company measures employee engagement and Always remember – nonprofits have as much to offer corporations as
design to support that. corporations can bring to nonprofits and the causes they serve. You are
an equal partner in social good.
QUICK TIP: Look beyond sectors to focus on alignment in purpose and
people.

DAN DRUCKER
FOUNDER
PHILANTHROPY FUEL