Four ways businesses can give back without spending big bucks

It’s no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on many small businesses over the last 16 months, forcing many to cut back on giving to worthy causes.

However, despite shrinking revenues and other challenges, there are many ways businesses can still give back to their communities, without breaking the bank.

Noted entrepreneur and author David Radlo says there are proactive measures that businesses can take to help improve their communities, giving back even at a time when the getting isn’t so good.

“You don’t have to dish out millions to be of service,” Radlo says. “You have skills and other resources that people need.”

Radlo, the author of “Principles of Cartel Disruption: Accelerate and Maximize Performance” and an internationally-recognized expert in leadership, growth and innovation, says the key is “having leadership and management walk the talk by making it a priority and part of the culture to give back with time, talents, and contacts in a systematic way.”

Here are four ways Radlo suggests businesses can give back without reaching too deeply into their pockets:

Offer pro bono services or discounted products. 

One way for employees or business leaders can lift the disadvantaged is to offer their expertise or services at no charge, or provide products at a discount. 

Hold volunteer days.

It’s a positive for the work culture if the company offers employees paid time off for volunteerism. Devoting some company time to worthy causes helps making giving back part of a company’s brand image.

Organize office drives. 

Generate an employee-run drive to collect food and clothes donations. Get the word out on social media. Small businesses build tight bonds with the communities they serve, and community-focused drives strengthen those connections.

Share your network of contacts. 

A successful professional’s well-constructed network can be a treasure trove for meeting others’ needs, by putting them in touch with your key contacts. It offers a quick pipeline to solutions to a variety of needs.