Rethinking Fundraising: Could This Model Help Charities and Businesses Thrive Together?

Hi everyone, After lurking on this board for months I have been building out an idea that has really grabbed at my heart. I’ve been working on an idea for a platform that connects businesses and charities in a way that creates value for everyone involved. I feel passionately about the mission, but I want to make sure that I am not running in blind and want to see what major hurdles/deficiencies there are with my vision. The concept is simple: Charities can raise funds for their mission without asking for donations, all while adding value to local businesses and community members. 1. Businesses list their services or offerings on the platform for free. 2. Charities (Connectors) use their networks to promote these businesses to their supporters and communities. 3. When a deal is made, the business pays a finder’s fee—but here’s the key: the fee is paid directly to the charity as a **tax-deductible donation.** This approach creates a win-win-win situation: For Businesses: 1. Gain instant access to a trusted audience with a compelling pitch: Supporting a charity while growing your client base. 2. Only pay if a deal is made, keeping it completely risk-free. Plus, free advertising even if a deal does not go through. 3. Finder’s fees become tax-deductible donations, making it more cost-effective. For Charities/Non-profits: 1. Unlock a new, practical fundraising tool that aligns with their mission. 2. Promote businesses that support the cause while strengthening relationships with their community. 3. Fundraising becomes more sustainable, with recurring potential from business partnerships. Also, Charities bring value instead of only asking for donations. For Communities: 1. Supporters of charities gain access to trusted businesses vetted by organizations they already believe in. 2. Donations are driven through everyday transactions, multiplying impact without requiring extra giving from individuals. These are all the reasons why I'm telling myself... this COULD be a good idea, with the proper execution. I am my own one-person echo chamber though, which is why I welcome cautious optimism, or a good dose of realism. TIA to this community I have been learning so much from!