When you think of matching funds, what comes to mind? Perhaps you think of it as a bunch of blueprints for other charities to follow. Or perhaps you think of it as a scary bureaucratic process that requires a lot of paperwork and storage space. If either of these images is connected with match-funds programs, you’re right! They’re both correct in different ways. This post will focus on the good parts of matching funds programs—the good news, the benefits, and the do’s and don’ts—allowing you to get started on the right track with your own match-funding program.
What is a matching funds program?
A matching funds program is a type of charitable giving that involves one or more charities competing to donate the most money to a single organization. In a matching funds program, the qualifying organization receives a set amount of money from multiple donors, usually in the form of tax-deductible donations. Because the funds are coming from multiple sources, the matching funds program is considered a “structured” fundraising program.
How does a Matching Funds Program work?
In a general matching funds program, a single organization champions the cause of many different charities, each of which works to the same goal. Each charity publishes an application on the IRS’s website, and each organization receives a certain amount of money from the federal government as their matching gift. The charities then use that money to support the work of other charities. The basic structure of a matching funds program is similar for all types of matching gifts programs, but there are a few differences.
The benefits of an effective matching funds program
There are a few benefits to an effective matching funds program. For one, you will have a much easier time raising money for your cause because everyone is on the same page – or rather, everyone is competing to donate. And second, when people contribute to your matching funds program, they are not just supporting one charity, they are also supporting your organization’s administrative costs, as well. Matching funds programs are a great way to bring in new donors, particularly younger people who may not have considered donating before. Because it is such a inexpensive program to launch, most people will be interested in your program from the get-go. And once they see how easy it is to contribute, they’ll be glad they did.
Do’s and Don’ts of a Matching Funds Program
There are a few basic things to keep in mind when launching a matching funds program.
Wrapping up – Is Matching Funds Right For You?
If you’ve been thinking about starting a matching funds program, now is the time! There are many benefits to doing so, and there are also some things to consider before making the leap. First, if you’re thinking about doing this for the wrong reasons, it’s probably too late. You’ve already committed to doing it, so you might as well get it right. Why burden yourself with the hassles of an unsuccessful launch? You’ve already invested a lot of time, money, and energy into the program—why not make sure it comes back to you with a big, fat, shiny dollar? If you’re the right person for the job and you’ve carefully considered the pros and cons of a matching funds program, then proceed with caution.