Glossary
Donor Management

Matching Gift

By: Alec Hollingsworth
Updated:  
July 2, 2025

Definition:

A matching gift is a corporate donation that matches an employee's charitable contribution, often doubling the impact of the original gift.
A matching gift is a type of corporate philanthropy in which companies financially match donations that their employees make to nonprofit organizations. When a donor gives to a nonprofit, they can request a matching gift from their employer, effectively doubling (or sometimes tripling) the original donation. This process typically involves the donor submitting a request through their employer’s matching gift program, after which the company verifies the donation and issues the matching funds to the nonprofit. Matching gifts are a valuable fundraising tool, allowing nonprofits to maximize the impact of individual donations, enhance donor engagement, and build relationships with corporate partners.

Key Takeaways

  • Matching gifts can double or triple individual donations.
  • They require donors to initiate the process with their employer.
  • Nonprofits benefit by maximizing fundraising potential.
  • Corporate matching programs foster stronger business-community relationships.

Why It Matters

Matching gifts amplify donor contributions and help nonprofits raise more funds with minimal additional effort.

Real World Example

A local animal shelter receives a $100 donation from a supporter whose employer offers a matching gift program. After the donor submits a request with their company, the employer verifies the contribution and sends an additional $100 to the shelter. This process not only doubles the original donation but also helps the shelter reach its fundraising goals faster. By proactively reminding donors about matching gift opportunities, the shelter can increase overall giving and build lasting partnerships with local businesses.

How Keela Helps

Keela’s donor management tools make it easy to track matching gift opportunities and remind donors to submit their requests. By recording matching gift pledges and outcomes, Keela helps nonprofits maximize this important funding source and streamline communication with both donors and companies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do matching gifts work?

Donors submit a request to their employer after making a gift. The employer verifies the donation and sends a matching gift to the nonprofit.

Which employers offer matching gift programs?

Many corporations, large and small, offer matching gift programs. Donors should check with their HR departments for eligibility.

How can nonprofits encourage matching gifts?

Nonprofits can remind donors about matching gift opportunities and provide instructions on how to submit requests to their employers.

Related Terms

A/B Test
Accessibility Compliance
Acknowledgement Letter
Address Verification
Affiliation
Archiving Historical Donor Data

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