Giving back as a small business

small-business-volunteering

Many Canadian small businesses proudly weave charity and volunteer work into the fabric of their businesses. To them, being a business owner means also being part of a local community. They believe it’s important to give back to that community whenever possible.

Does that sound like a good idea to you? Here are some ways you can get your small business involved in giving back.

Find the right organizations

Charities and causes that you can relate to and believe in are the best ones for you to spend your time and money on. Look for organizations that align with your company’s brand pillars. Consider charitable investments that are most in line with your company values and beliefs and make them a part of your corporate culture.

Donate money

Depending on the level of commitment you’re comfortable with, there’s an option that’s right for your business. Some small businesses sponsor sports teams, a community event, or a community project. Others make financial contributions on an ongoing basis. Donations don’t have to break the bank, either – organizations such as Kiva offer loans for entrepreneurs in need, and lenders can contribute as little as $25.

Donate time

If you’d rather donate your time, focus on your company’s strengths. If you’re an accounting firm, for example, you might help single parents or underprivileged families with filing taxes. A freelance web designer can help maintain the website of their local food bank. You can also host events, offer skills training, or simply spend a Saturday afternoon volunteering along with your employees.

Need even more convincing? A recent study showed that 91% of millennials would switch brand allegiances to one that’s associated with a cause.

So, there you go – it’s a win-win!

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How small businesses can give back to the community

As a small business owner, have you ever considered getting your business involved in charity or volunteer work? If not, it’s a good thing to consider! Businesses, even home-based ones with no storefront, are public faces of the community. Aside from the fact that it’s just good to do, volunteer or charity work will enhance your company’s reputation.

How to be a charitable small business

If you’re interested in donating to a charity on behalf of your small business, look for charities that you can relate to and believe in. There are many different options within every community for charitable donations. You can also sponsor a sports team, a community event, or a community project. You might also consider contributing to recurring opportunities like sponsoring a yearly marathon or providing an annual scholarship for a local college or university.

If you’d rather donate your time than your money, look to your company’s strengths. For example, an accounting firm may help single parents or underprivileged families with filing taxes for a reduced fee.

Or, a construction company may help build a domestic violence centre in your community, or contribute to the latest Habitat for Humanity project.

As a farmer, you may consider donating a portion of your crop to the local food bank.

There are many ways to get involved and help out in your community which will not only make you feel good about yourself but will also help to get your company name out there. Have fun!

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