Why corporate partnerships with charities matter

Over the years, there has been a growing demand for companies to embrace Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). It has become more important than ever to adopt sustainable practices in an ever-changing world.

Corporate partnerships with charities can be a viable solution to achieving these business goals – they aren’t just a nice thing to do; they’re a smart thing to do. They can benefit both charities and companies in many ways, such as:

• Winning more contracts and customers: Companies that support good causes can enhance their reputation and credibility, and attract more loyal and socially conscious customers. They can also demonstrate their values and commitment to their stakeholders, and gain a competitive edge in the market.
• Reaching new audiences: Charities can utilise the networks and resources of corporate partners to reach more people who need their support, while raising more awareness and funds for their cause. They can also access skills and expertise from partners to improve their efficiency and effectiveness.
• Building trust with local communities: Corporate partnerships with charities can forge positive relationships with the communities they operate in, and show they care about the social and environmental issues that affect them. Not only does this boost morale and motivation for team members, it also present opportunities for employees and customers to engage with charity volunteering and fundraising activities.

Corporate partnerships with charities are not one-size-fits-all. They can take different forms, such as:

• Cause-related marketing: When a company donates a percentage of its sales or profits to a charity, or sells a co-branded product or service in aid of a charity. For example, The Big Knit partnership between Innocent and Age UK, is a campaign that aims to combat isolation for elderly people. The elderly knit little hats for the tops of Innocent smoothie bottles and each hat raises 25p to help Age UK provide much-needed services and support to older people. To date, the campaign has raised just under £3 million.
• Charity of the year: This is when a company picks a charity to support for a year, and organises various events and activities to fundraise and raise awareness for them.
  

• Strategic partnership: When a company and a charity work together to achieve shared strategic objectives, and create long-term social impact.

Corporate partnerships with charities are a win-win arrangement for both parties. They can create value for the charity, the company, and the community. They also inspire and empower people to make a difference in the world.

Interested in partnering with a charity?

Your business can contribute to Grow in many ways. By becoming a corporate partner, you can help us sustain our work with young people in Sheffield while also promoting your social responsibility and benefiting from positive PR coverage. We have a range of corporate partnership opportunities for businesses keen to support us and deepen their brand visibility in Sheffield. Find out more…