Guide to Small Business Charitable Giving

It's not always about the money

Donation of products and services as well as special events participation can do a world of good.

I recommend: Give.org, a BBB Wise-Giving Alliance, provides plenty of information on making the most of your willingness to help out worthy causes.

Put your excess inventory to good use

Translate problems like slow-moving or obsolete inventory into ready-made tax deductions through charitable giving.

I recommend: Business enotes makes excellent suggestions on how to donate goods.

Promote your business through charitable affiliations

You can partner with a charitable organization in a way that brings more customers your way.

I recommend: Frugal Marketing provides ideas on how to make partnering a win-win proposition.

Check out the organization before writing that check

Make sure the organization soliciting your gift qualifies as a legitimate charity.

I recommend: NFIB gives good insight into looking for organizations where most of your contribution will reach the needy. The IRS has a search feature to locate legitimate charitable organizations for which there may be a tax deduction. Look for Publication 78. Charity Navigator calls itself "your guide to intelligent giving" and that's exactly what it is.

Finance your charitable goals by transforming your equity

If all of your assets are tied up in your business, and you are thinking of selling, you can transform your equity into a philanthropic fund to finance your charitable goals.

I recommend: Many non-profit organizations will assist you in converting your company's closely held stock into a charitable contribution. National Philanthropic Trust is one of many.