The Wonderful World of Matching Gifts

1. What is a matching gift?
2. How do I know if a company offers matching gifts?
3. How does a donor apply for a matching gift?
4. If the matching company has a list of pro-choice non-profits to choose from, which one should I pick?
5. How long does it take PCR to return the matching gift form to the company?
6. How long does it take the company to cut a check for the matching gift?
7. What happens if a matching gift is not approved by a matching gift company?
8. Where should I mail the matching gift form?
9. Will a matching gift count towards my fundraising goal?



What is a matching gift? A matching gift is when a person makes a donation to a non-profit organization (like PCR), and their employer donates an equal or greater amount to the same group. A matching gift is a super way for a donor to double their contribution.

How do I know if a company offers matching gifts? The only way to know for sure is to ask the donor's employer. It's best to check with the employer's human resources department.

How does a donor apply for a matching gift? The matching donor process is different for each company, and the donor must check with their employer to learn about the process. However, there are two ways companies generally process requests-an online or paper form.

If the matching company has a list of pro-choice non-profits to choose from, which one should I pick? Make sure and choose Pro-Choice Resources.

How long does it take PCR to return the matching gift form to the company? Once we receive the matching gift form, it is returned to the company within three working days.

How long does it take the company to cut a check for the matching gift? If the matching gift company approves the matching gift, the company will send the matching gift according to their company guidelines. Please contact the matching gift company directly to find out how often matching gifts checks are cut and mailed.

What happens if a matching gift is not approved by a matching gift company? If a matching gift company does not approve a matching gift, the company will contact either the donor or PCR. If PCR is contacted, we will pass the information on to the bowler.

Where should I mail the matching gift form? Please mail it to our office at 250 3rd Ave. N Suite 625, Minneapolis, MN 55401.

Will a matching gift count towards my fundraising goal? Of course! Once you submit the matching gift form to PCR, you can include the matching gift amount in your fundraising total. Enter it as you would any off-line pledge on your fundraising page.

If you still have questions, please contact us at pcr@birdsandbees.org or 612-825-2000.