In Kind Donations for Nonprofits

In-kind donations are non-monetary donations of goods or services. In-kind donations can range from physical items like clothing, food, and medical supplies to professional services like legal advice or marketing expertise. Most nonprofits know this well, as they solicit and receive in-kind donations for all types of special events. You may wish to accept these donations for your charity auction, fundraising raffle, event goody bags or prizes, or another purpose.

Donors of in-kind donations for nonprofits can be either businesses or individuals – but often, they are businesses and event sponsors who wish to receive credit for their donations. Encouraging corporate sponsorship of in-kind goods is a great way to engage businesses with your organization.

Benefits of In-Kind Donations for Fundraising Events

In-kind donations play a pivotal role in the success of fundraising events, offering benefits that extend far beyond monetary contributions. They diversify the range of items available for auctions or sales, often adding an exciting element to the event. Additionally, when businesses contribute in-kind donations, they align themselves with your cause, showcasing their commitment to social responsibility. This can lead to increased brand visibility, positive public relations, and a strengthened sense of community engagement.

Here are some of the benefits of in-kind donations:

• In-kind donations allow for a greater selection and variety of auction or raffle items.
• Everyone has an opportunity to give, regardless of their financial situation, by offering their time and skills in support of your cause.
• Auction bidders can show their support for the work of others.
• Donors gain recognition for their business or services.
• Costs are kept low as in-kind donations replace purchases.

Procuring In-Kind Donations

Ok, so you need to get some donations, but where to start? The process of obtaining in-kind donations requires strategic planning and effective communication. It begins with identifying your organization’s specific needs and understanding the donation drive’s target donors. Engaging with potential donors, whether they are individuals, businesses, or other organizations, involves articulating the mission and impact of the cause, as well as demonstrating transparency and accountability in handling contributions. Building strong relationships with potential donors fosters a sense of trust and mutual understanding, making them more likely to contribute and continue their support in the future. 

It can be time-consuming to find companies that offer in-kind donations. That’s why some companies have popped up to help you in your search. Check out our friends at DonationMatch and see if they can help your organization by finding a like-minded business to support your cause.

However you end up receiving in-kind donations, don’t forget to acknowledge and appreciate the generosity of your donors. Recognizing their vital role in creating positive change is integral to the donation process.

Examples of In-Kind Donations for Special Events

Fundraising events such as silent auctions offer a great opportunity to solicit in-kind donations. Through your network of supporters, find out what opportunities exist. For example:

• A massage therapist may offer a free massage.
• The local gym may offer a week of free yoga classes or a three-month membership.
• An exceptional baker may offer the delivery of baked goods for an office breakfast meeting.
• A local restaurant may offer a $50 gift certificate or Special Dinner for 2.
• A local grocery store may offer drinks and snacks for your walk-a–thon

Tracking In Kind Donations

Tracking in-kind donations is a critical aspect of efficient nonprofit management. It ensures accurate reporting to donors, your Board, and regulatory bodies, demonstrating accountability and compliance. This transparency builds trust, instilling confidence in supporters that their contributions are being used effectively. In addition, tracking in-kind donations enables nonprofits to assess the value and impact of these non-cash resources, which can be instrumental in budgeting and planning for future projects.

Tracking donations involves recording, categorizing, and documenting all non-monetary contributions received, such as goods, services, or expertise. To do this, you will need to utilize a tracking system. Our golf tournament platform offers the ability to accept in-kind donations on your website. To accept In-Kind Donations, add the In Kind Donation page at Website -> Pages in your administration area. Constituents complete the form on this page with contact and donation information, and the submitted form is sent to the administrator’s email. Once the page is added, the In Kind Donation Report will appear under your Reports menu. The report allows you to add In Kind Donations that you receive offline and convert In Kind Donors to sponsors, to appear on your website).

An Alternative to In-Kind Donations: Auction Consignment Packages

In addition to accepting in-kind donations for your fundraising event, you may want to consider DoJiggy’s No Risk Auction Items. These items allow you to advertise and auction unique travel packages without having to put down any money upfront. Once you successfully sell an item at your fundraising auction or raffle, your organization purchases it from our experienced partner and they send it directly to the winning constituent. This is a great option when donations come up short.

In-kind donations offer businesses and corporations a unique way of giving through an individual’s time, talent, and generosity of heart. Utilizing in-kind donations will add variety and spirit to your fundraising auction or raffle and help your organization meet and exceed fundraising goals.