Corporate Giving FAQs

Can I use my donor advised fund to match employee contributions?

Yes, the employee should provide a verification or acknowledgement from the charity. The employer may wish to aggregate the gifts and disburse one grant to the charities in recognition of the named employee’s contributions. The minimum match should be $100.

How can employees share in the grantmaking process?

There are several valuable strategies to engage employees. One is matching contributions as outlined above. A second is to offer preferred grants to charities with which employees are affiliated as volunteers or board members. A third is to invite employees to help with the decision-making process by serving on a grantmaking committee. The Foundation staff can suggest several strategies for employee engagement, and consult with you on this aspect of your corporate philanthropy.

If my business name or direction changes, can I change the name of my fund?

Yes. Please submit a written request and we will be happy to comply with this change.

How long does it take to process grant checks?

Approximately 7-10 business days, depending on how long it may take to liquidate invested assets or to verify the charitable status of the organization you wish to support. Our general procedure is to mail the check directly to the charity with a cover letter identifying your fund as the grantee. You will receive prompt notification from us that the grant has been paid and acknowledged.

Can my business request a grant from my donor advised fund for a listing in a nonprofit’s publication?

Yes, if the listing of your business is an acknowledgement of sponsorship of the nonprofit rather than a commercial or business expense.

Can my business request a grant to purchase a table at an annual fundraiser sponsored by a charitable organization?

IRS regulations prohibit grants from any foundation’s charitable funds to be used to pay for benefits rendered to fund advisors or donors. The Columbus Foundation is unable to process requests for payment of tickets to fundraisers or benefit dinners or for any purpose from which the donor will receive any personal benefit. However, the Foundation can grant the charitable portion, and the donor or business can pay directly for the benefit portion.

What is the difference between a charitable contribution and a business expense?

A charitable contribution does not involve the return of any benefit to you as the donor. On the other hand, a business expense involves a payment made with a reasonable expectation of financial return commensurate with the amount of the payment, or something of value offered in return. Only grants for charitable purposes may be made from a fund.

Have questions about corporate giving?  Contact a member of our Donor Services team by e-mail. Or, if you are interested in becoming a donor, please complete this brief Become a Donor form and a Donor Services officer will respond within the next business day.