Why business and charity collaboration matters more than ever
- Ellie Waiton
- May 12
- 2 min read
In today’s interconnected world, collaboration between businesses and charities is not just a "nice to have", it’s a vital component of meaningful social progress and sustainable business success. We see every day how powerful these partnerships can be. Whether it's through shared resources, co produced projects, or joint campaigns, charities and businesses working together can deliver more impactful and lasting change.
The benefits of collaboration for charities
Charities often operate under tight budgets, relying on grants, fundraising, and donations to sustain services. Strategic partnerships with businesses can help overcome financial constraints and access vital resources such as:
- Skills and expertise:
Many businesses offer pro bono support, such as marketing, HR, or financial advice.
- Facilities and infrastructure:
From meeting rooms to tech equipment, businesses can share what they already have.
- Wider reach:
Partnering with a business helps charities access new audiences and grow visibility.
In fact, a 2022 report by Pilotlight and Cranfield University found that charities engaged in long term business partnerships were 25% more likely to report increased capacity to deliver services effectively compared to those without such partnerships.
The value to businesses
Charities aren’t the only ones that benefit. For businesses, working with charities enhances:
- Brand reputation:
Today’s consumers expect companies to take their social responsibility seriously. Aligning with meaningful causes builds trust and strengthens brand loyalty.
- Employee engagement:
According to Deloitte’s Volunteerism Survey, 89% of employees believe companies that sponsor volunteer activities offer a better overall working environment.
- Social value compliance:
With new regulations like the Social Value Act, demonstrating community impact is now essential for many procurement and funding opportunities.
More than 70% of business leaders in the UK believe that collaboration with charities improves innovation and employee morale, according to Business in the Community's 2023 survey.
Examples of successful collaboration
Here at The Charity Hub, we regularly bring together charities and businesses to build relationships that make real change. One charity might receive free cybersecurity training from an IT company, while another may co host an event with a local business to raise awareness.
Another great example is Blue Box IT, a business that not only sponsors our networking events but also supports our members with discounted digital services. These collaborations aren’t just transactional, they’re transformational.
Why this matters now
With increasing economic pressures, growing inequality, and heightened demand for services, the need for collaboration is urgent. At the same time, businesses are seeking new ways to prove their commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards.
This intersection, where charity needs meet business goals, is where meaningful, sustainable partnerships are born.
How The Charity Hub helps
We make it easy for charities and businesses to connect. Through our networking events in Doncaster and Rotherham, organisations come together to share, learn, and find opportunities to work better together.
Whether you're a charity looking to grow your impact or a business looking to give back while meeting CSR goals, collaboration is a win win.
