For some businesses social and environmental responsibility is part of their DNA from the start (think #TheBodyShop and Anita Roddick, #Peppermint Magazine). For others it’s a case of “when I start to make money part of my profit will go to…”
You may have realised that the minute you register a business name you become open fodder for people trying to sell you advertising and charities trying to get you to donate. So how do you respond? It’s far easier to say to someone – I’m sorry not at this time because I support e.g. EMPOWA rather than ‘no’.
I believe you should plan your donations strategy from the outset. You can give time, resources, in-kind or money. It can be an annual lump some or a percentage of profits. While some think giving 2% of your profits is a cop out – it’s somewhere to start.
As business owners we all have a responsibility to the communities from within which we live, work and prosper. Even the smallest contribution can make a remarkable difference. No need to wait.
To get started you need to think about what areas you are interested in. Will they be linked to your business or just something you feel strongly about – or both? Either way it’s a great thing to do and to share with your customers.
What are your plans in giving back?
Check out the organisations I give to with love, time and money: www.empowa.net.au (I’m a founding member); and www.playgroundideas.org (I’m on the Board).