Companies that donate to schools: How to get support

There are companies—big and small—that want to help. They’ve set up programs to donate money, supplies, or even food to public schools, PTAs, and local education groups. All it takes is knowing where to look and how to ask.

We’ve seen it firsthand. Schools that once struggled to raise a few hundred dollars are now running full-on donation drives with support from companies that care about education and community. Whether you need supplies for classrooms or funding for your next field trip, this guide will walk you through who to ask, what to ask for, and how to make it easy for them to say “yes.”

Companies that donate to schools: An overview

There are a lot of companies out there doing more than just business—they're giving back, especially to schools. Some donate cash through grant programs. Others give supplies, food, or gift cards. And some do both. Whether you’re running a fundraiser, planning a school event, or just trying to get extra help for your classrooms, there’s likely a company that wants to pitch in.

We’ve worked with schools that started small—just a few donation requests here and there. Over time, they found which companies were a good fit for their mission. And once they built those relationships, things really started to take off.

You’ll see some familiar names in the sections ahead—big companies like Office Depot and Target that support education in a big way. But there are also smaller, local businesses that care deeply about their communities and love to support schools nearby.

The key is to know what kind of help you need—and which companies align with that need. Some focus on public schools, some support nonprofit organizations tied to education, and others are more flexible. The good news? You’ve got options.

Grant programs and monetary support for schools

Money can be one of the hardest things to raise for schools. You might need funding for new tech, field trips, classroom upgrades, or just keeping things running. That’s where grant programs come in.

Many companies set aside money every year to support public schools and nonprofit education organizations. These aren’t just giant corporations either—some are community banks, local businesses, or grocery chains that believe in giving back. They’re doing it because they care about the local community, and they want to be part of something bigger than just business.

We've seen schools get thousands of dollars by applying for these programs. The trick? Knowing where to look and being clear about your goals. When a company sees you’ve got a plan and a real need, they’re much more likely to say yes.

Big names like Walmart, Target, and State Farm offer grant programs that focus on education and youth support. Some even match donations from their employees, so if a teacher’s spouse works at one of these companies, that’s another funding path to explore.

If you're starting from scratch, don’t worry. Focus on companies with a clear interest in education or social responsibility. Look for the words “community giving,” “corporate philanthropy,” or “education grants” on their websites. And always keep your request simple and heartfelt—just like you’d talk to a neighbor.

Companies that donate school supplies and educational materials

Sometimes, it's not about the money—it’s about the basics. Pencils, notebooks, markers, and backpacks. These are things every student needs, but not every school has the budget to provide. That’s why school supply donations can be a game-changer.

We’ve worked with schools that received boxes of brand-new supplies just in time for the first day of school, all because they reached out to the right companies. Office Depot, Staples, and Crayola are a few of the big names that regularly support classrooms through in-kind donations. And it’s not just national chains—many local stores are happy to help too, especially if they know the supplies are going straight to students in their community.

Gift cards are another helpful option. Stores like Walmart, Target, and Amazon often provide gift cards to schools and teachers, which means you can buy exactly what you need, when you need it. That flexibility makes a big difference.

If you’re looking to request supplies, keep your ask short and honest. Share what your school needs, how it will help your students, and that you’re open to any kind of support—even if it’s just a few extra notebooks. You’d be surprised how far that can go.

Local food banks and organizations supporting school initiatives

When we talk about school support, we can’t skip over basic needs like food. If students are hungry, it’s hard for them to focus, learn, or feel safe at school. That’s why local food banks and human services organizations are such powerful partners.

In a lot of communities, food banks do more than just hand out groceries. They work directly with schools to set up weekend backpack programs, holiday food drives, and even in-school pantries. Many of these programs are run by volunteers, often in partnership with local businesses or charitable organizations.

We’ve seen schools team up with groups like United Way or the Salvation Army to make sure no student goes without meals—even outside of school hours. And because these groups are already focused on helping the local community, they’re usually ready and willing to step in.

Some grocery chains like Kroger, Publix, and Whole Foods also donate food or sponsor nutrition programs for schools. And while the big names get the headlines, don’t overlook smaller local shops or restaurants—they often want to help, they just haven’t been asked yet.

If your school has students in need, this is one of the most meaningful ways you can make an impact. Just reach out, share your story, and be open to starting small. You never know what kind of partnership could grow from it.

Companies that support fundraising events for schools

School fundraisers can bring in real money—but planning them takes a lot of work. Raffles, auctions, walk-a-thons, spaghetti dinners... they all need supplies, food, or gift cards to be successful. That’s where businesses that support fundraisers come in.

Some companies donate food or gift cards. Others will offer items for silent auctions or help sponsor the event itself. And yes—many of them are happy to do it, especially if they know their donation is going straight to a good cause. We’ve seen schools raise thousands just by getting local restaurants or stores involved.

Places like Panera and Chipotle often host “fundraiser nights” where a portion of sales goes back to your school. Restaurants like Mimi’s Cafe or local pizza shops may offer gift cards or meals for free if you ask. It’s a win-win—they support the community, and they get foot traffic and positive exposure.

When you’re reaching out for support, be specific. Tell them what kind of event you’re planning and what you need—whether that’s a tray of cookies, a $25 gift card, or some flyers in their window. And don’t forget to say thank you. A little appreciation goes a long way.

Companies that match employee donations to schools and nonprofits

This one’s often missed, but it can seriously double your impact. Many companies have what’s called a “matching gift” program. That means when one of their employees donates to a school or nonprofit, the company will match that donation—sometimes dollar for dollar.

We’ve seen schools grow their fundraising just by tapping into this. A parent donates $100? The company kicks in another $100. And suddenly, that one gift turns into two.

Companies like Google, Microsoft, Johnson & Johnson, and Bank of America are just a few that offer this kind of support. And it’s not just tech or finance—retailers, grocery stores, even some airlines have these programs. They do it to encourage giving, boost employee morale, and support causes their workers care about.

Here’s the trick: Most employees don’t even know their company offers matching gifts. So it helps to include a quick reminder in your fundraising emails or event materials. Something like, “Ask your employer if they match donations—many do!”

Some companies also offer volunteer grants. That means if someone volunteers time at your school, their employer may donate money based on their hours. Starbucks and Disney are a couple of examples.

Bottom line—matching gifts and volunteer grants are low-effort, high-reward. And once you know who offers them, it’s easy to include in your outreach.

Clothing and sporting goods companies that give back to schools

It’s not just food and supplies—clothing and gear can be a big help too. Whether it’s uniforms for sports teams, warm jackets for winter, or equipment for gym class, some companies are stepping up to meet those needs.

We’ve worked with schools that received everything from backpacks to soccer balls, all donated by companies that care about kids and education. One standout is Dick’s Sporting Goods—they’ve got a strong history of supporting youth sports and community programs. And they don’t just write checks—they donate actual equipment, sponsor events, and help schools with grant funding too.

Retailers like Macy’s and Athleta also run donation and sponsorship programs, especially if your school is part of a nonprofit or ties into a larger education cause. Even Nike, through its community impact team, supports schools and athletic programs across the country.

And don’t count out small businesses. Local sporting goods stores and independent clothing shops often want to help—they just need to be asked. They may not have big corporate forms to fill out, but a simple phone call or visit can go a long way.

If you’re raising funds for a school team, updating uniforms, or just helping families in need, this kind of support can make all the difference.

Organizations focused on education and youth programs

Not every donation has to come from a company. Some of the biggest help schools get actually comes from nonprofit organizations that were built to support education. These groups act as a bridge—they connect schools with donors, provide classroom supplies, or even help fund special projects.

One of the best-known groups is DonorsChoose. Teachers can post exactly what their classrooms need, and donors from all over the country can chip in to make it happen. It could be books, science kits, art supplies—you name it. And the process is super simple, which is why so many schools use it year after year.

Other groups like the Kids In Need Foundation and AdoptAClassroom.org also focus on giving teachers the tools they need. Some send out supply boxes. Others offer grants or direct funding to classrooms in under-resourced schools. We’ve seen teachers get everything from dry erase markers to Chromebooks through these programs.

What’s great is these groups really get it. They understand what schools are up against and how even small donations can lead to big impact. So if you’re feeling stuck or unsure where to start, these are great places to begin.

How schools can partner with companies in their local community

Sometimes the best support comes from right down the street. Local businesses—coffee shops, bookstores, diners, even hardware stores—are often eager to help schools in their neighborhood. They may not have big grant programs or flashy campaigns, but they care deeply about the community and want to see it thrive.

We’ve seen schools build amazing relationships with small businesses. Maybe a bakery donates cupcakes for a fundraiser. A print shop offers free flyers. A local gym sponsors field day. These partnerships don’t just bring in money—they build real community connections that last.

The key is to keep it simple. Don’t send a formal letter right away. Start with a conversation. Stop by the shop, introduce yourself, and explain what your school is doing and how they can get involved. Most owners appreciate being asked directly, and if you can show them how their support makes a difference, they’re even more likely to say yes.

Offering a little recognition goes a long way too. A shoutout in your newsletter, a thank-you sign at the event, or tagging them on social media helps them feel seen and valued.

Local support is powerful. It’s personal, it’s genuine, and it reminds everyone that when a school succeeds, the whole community benefits.

It starts with a single ask

Getting support for your school doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you’re applying for a grant, reaching out to a local business, or asking a big company for supplies, there are so many ways to find help. The key is knowing where to look, being clear about what you need, and starting small if you have to. Over time, those small wins add up—and your school, your students, and your whole community feel the difference.

At Harness, we’ve seen what’s possible when schools and nonprofits have the right tools—and the right team behind them. Fundraising shouldn’t feel overwhelming or unclear. That’s why our platform pairs smart, easy-to-use features with expert guidance that helps you cut through the noise. From growing donations to keeping supporters engaged (and yes, finally getting out of those endless spreadsheets), our experience means you don’t have to figure it all out alone. We’re here to make donating easier and more sustainable.

Frequently asked questions

What companies donate school supplies to teachers and students?

Companies like Office Depot, Staples, BIC, and Crayola often donate school supplies directly to classrooms or through larger education-focused programs. You can also find help from local businesses willing to support supply drives or donate in bulk.

How can I apply for corporate donation programs for my school?

Start by visiting the company’s website and looking for sections like “Community Giving,” “Social Responsibility,” or “Grants.” Many have online forms or guidelines for making a donation request. Be clear, honest, and brief about what your school needs.

What’s the difference between matching gifts and volunteer grants?

Matching gifts double a donation made by an employee—if they give $50, the company matches it. Volunteer grants, on the other hand, donate money based on the hours an employee volunteers at a school or nonprofit.

Do small businesses also offer support for local schools?

Yes, absolutely. Many small businesses are eager to help but just haven’t been asked. They might not have formal programs, but they often give gift cards, supplies, or sponsorships for events in their local community.

How do I write a donation request letter to a company?

Keep it short and genuine. Explain who you are, what your school needs, and how their help will make a difference. Include any important dates and offer to recognize their support through newsletters, social media, or school events.

Are there any online platforms that help connect schools with donors?

Yes—DonorsChoose is one of the most popular platforms for teachers and schools to post classroom needs and receive donations from individuals and businesses. AdoptAClassroom.org and the Kids In Need Foundation are also great resources.