Small Businesses Big on Giving Back

Despite tough times, small business owners continue giving back to their communities. Ninety-one (91) percent of small-business owners contributed to their community through volunteering, in-kind contributions, and/or direct cash donations. About 41 percent contributed all three ways. The estimated average value of contributions is $6,600 per small employer, contributing and not, for a total of roughly $40 billion.

Advanta recognizes the importance of philanthropy as well as the struggles small businesses face. To help small businesses do their part in giving back, Advanta recently launched its KivaB4B program. This initiative allows entrepreneurs in the U.S. to double donations to their counterparts in developing countries. Anyone who makes a loan using an Advanta credit card will have their grant 100% matched by Advanta (up to $200/month per customer).  Visit www.kivab4b.org for more information.
 
Here are four easy ways for your small business to be charitable without breaking the budget.
 
1. Adopt a Highway – Take some time every month to clean up your neighborhood streets. The program places a sign on the area you maintain, and you can wear shirts promoting your business while you clean. Visit http://www.adoptahighway.com/ for more information.
 
2. Donate merchandise – Provide goods to silent auctions, raffles or other local fundraisers. You already have the stuff in stock, so if you can’t sell it you can give it away and write it off on your taxes next year.
 
3. Host a low-budget event in your store – Host a gathering for your favorite charity. Send an email invitation to your customers for a desert night or an art opening. Sell glasses of wine, beer and soda and give the proceeds to charity. And hopefully people will shop while they’re there, so keep your register open.
 
4. Collection jar – It’s the tried and true way of collecting donations.  Place a collection jar on your counter for a charity. It’s not a new idea, but it works.  A similar idea is to donate a percentage of your profits to a good cause.
 
What other ways does your small business contribute? Leave me a comment.