Top corporate sponsors: 11 companies that donate to nonprofits

Companies willing to donate to fundraisers are plentiful, but it can be hard to know which to target. That’s why we've rounded up a list of some of the biggest and best companies to approach for sponsorships, along with details on how you can get in on the action.

1. Bank of America 🏦

Bank of America sponsors regional events across the U.S., including art exhibits, performances, and charity sporting events like the Chicago Marathon. They also support initiatives focused on neighborhood preservation, urgent needs like food and shelter, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. 

Visit their website to learn more about what they offer and make a request on behalf of your organization. Plus, they have a guide that outlines the sponsorship application process.

2. Kroger 🛒

501(c)(3) nonprofits can apply once per year for Kroger sponsorships, gift cards, and in-kind donations—just make sure to submit your request at least a month in advance. Download their list of guidelines and then you can complete the application online.

3. Pepsi 🥤

While the PepsiCo Foundation doesn't accept unsolicited proposals for nonprofit funding, groups can request sponsorships and product donations online from local distributors of Pepsi products. And in-kind donations aren't just soda: Frito-Lay, Quaker, Gatorade, and Tropicana are all part of the Pepsi fam.

4. State Farm 🤝

As a large national corporation with local affiliates, State Farm invites organizations of all types to apply directly for event or marketing sponsorships. However, they ask that you do so three months in advance, so plan ahead.

More to explore

The step-by-step guide to getting donations from companies →

5. Tito's Vodka 🍸

Tito's Vodka boasts that they "proudly support thousands of nonprofits." Indeed, the company does have a strong track record of giving back, from animal rescue and community gardens to racial equity initiatives and more. 

Get your organization on that growing list! If you're a 501(c)(3), you can fill out a donation or sponsorship request for your next event online—just make sure to do so 30 days in advance.

6. Trader Joe’s 🌸

To request in-kind donations or other corporate sponsorship from Trader Joe’s, you must go to your local store and ask the designated Donation Coordinator directly. They only contribute to 501(c)(3) organizations, but otherwise, their guidelines are pretty flexible. Don’t forget to submit your sponsorship request three weeks before your organization needs it!

7. U.S. Bank 💰

U.S. Bank focuses on longer-term sponsorship opportunities that involve multi-channel marketing strategies, rather than one-time event sponsorships. You can check out their full list of stipulations and submit a proposal through their online request form several weeks in advance.

8. Whole Foods 🫒

Whole Foods doesn't make in-kind donations or give out gift cards. This Amazon-owned grocery giant does, however, have a Community Giving program facilitated by team member networks that make direct financial contributions quarterly to sponsor local nonprofit organizations. Note—this opportunity is separate from the charitable giving done by their several foundations.

9. Wells Fargo 💸

Wells Fargo Community Giving program supports local organizations that aid financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability in their communities. The application notes that proposals should be submitted at least 90 days prior to the sponsorship start date.

10. Dick’s Sporting Goods 🏅

Dick’s is an ideal corporate sponsor for nonprofits looking to fund local recreational sports teams to help more children experience the value of play. When applying online, nonprofits should note that they review requests monthly and make decisions typically within 60 days.

11. Marriot 🏨

This hotel chain is dedicated to giving back big time. Marriot supports organizations that aid children, provide disaster relief, environmental protection, and so much more. Interested nonprofits can create an account to apply.

Common corporate sponsor questions

How to find corporate sponsors?

When looking for companies that give donations or businesses that sponsor events, first consider your organization's needs. Are you seeking unrestricted funds, an event sponsorship, support for a specific program, or an in-kind donation?

Once you determine your needs, begin looking at which companies give sponsorships. The best place to start for corporate sponsorship is within your own network: the grocery store in your neighborhood, the clothing shop a friend of your board member owns, or the financial institution your charity uses. Focus on where you already have a direct contact when seeking companies that donate to charity.

After exploring local company sponsorship options, you may be ready to look at larger national or global sponsors for nonprofit organizations. Determine what brands align with your organization's mission and ensure the sponsorship is mutually beneficial and has the potential to turn into a long-term relationship.

Here are some popular industries to look for corporate donations to nonprofits:

• Airlines ✈️
• Big retail stores 🛍️
• Banks 🏦
• Food and beverage brands 😋
• Grocery stores 🛒
• Hotels 🛏️
• Insurance companies 💪

TheShareWay can also help you discover, apply to, and track prospective sponsors through its online directory. 

Who is most likely to donate to a nonprofit?

Companies will donate to nonprofits for many reasons. Some donate given their shared goals and values, while others are focused on fulfilling their corporate social responsibility program (CSR). 

While major companies like Pepsi and State Farm can be valuable funding partners, some of the most likely places that donate to nonprofits are often right in your neighborhood! So, when searching for companies supporting nonprofits, don’t forget about local businesses, too. You never know who’s willing to help your cause.

What companies donate to charity the most?

Gilead Sciences, Walmart, and Wells Fargo are some top companies that donate to nonprofit organizations. These sponsorship companies have well-established giving programs and actively seek out nonprofits to support. 

What company donates all profits to charity?

Newman’s Own and Peacekeeper Cause-metics are two examples of companies that donate all proceeds to charity. Unlike other for-profit businesses, these organizations are solely focused on doing good.

What is it called when companies donate to nonprofits?

When companies donate money, goods, or services to nonprofits, it is generally referred to as corporate philanthropy or corporate giving. This practice is part of their social responsibility efforts to support community initiatives and charitable causes. Companies that give free stuff to nonprofits or provide financial support are engaging in this form of giving.

More to explore

How to write a winning corporate sponsorship proposal (free template!) →

Send them an offer they can’t refuse

There are plenty of companies that sponsor nonprofits worth reaching out to about funding opportunities, but this list of corporate sponsors will give you an idea of where to start.

Sign up for a Givebutter account today to create donation forms and fundraising events that inspire sponsors and make it easy for them to contribute to your cause. Not only will you get access to a full spread of fundraising tools, but nonprofits can also get free email marketing tools that make it easy to engage with key stakeholders (i.e., your corporate sponsors!).