How do I get businesses to donate?

Question

I am going overseas for a nonprofit volunteer program. Is it possible to ask businesses to donate money for my trip if I explain what I am doing, the goals, etc.? If so, how would I go about doing this?

Answer 1

They usually want something in return.  Usually some free advertising.  since the money will be used overseas you would have to do something here before you leave, like your organization could  publish a list of the businesses that made contributions and that be on a program for a  dedication ceremony, or it could be printed in the paper maybe next to a story on what you would be doing overseas.  They like to get some recognition for their contribution and their business name printed on something, a program, ad, newpaper or trade magazine, a church bulliton when they know that they are more like to give.

Answer 2

Be prepared for a lot of "no" answers. They are inundated with such requests.

Also be prepared to say what YOU are going to do to pay some of the expenses yourself, and how much you and your family will be paying *yourselves*.

Set up speaking engagements with communities of faith (churches, temples and mosques), philanthropic groups (Lions, Optimist, etc.) to take place after you return from this experience, to show that you will be using this experience to educate others in your community after you return.

A better idea is to raise this money yourself through work.