By law, non profit organizations (charities) are limited in how much  money they can earn and still keep their non profit status. However, these groups are not limited in how much money they can bring in through donations.  Therefore, every non profit group is interested in receiving donations of both money and in kind merchandise.  Furthermore,  workers in all non profits realize they are but one of many good causes out there fighting for your time and money.  Therefore, the organizations have usually set up channels to 'give back' to those that support them.  These factors add up to business opportunities for you.

A very quick way to gain advertising is to donate a piece of jewelry to a charitable auction.  The charity will typically print your company name and address in pre-auction publications as well as in the auction book.  They will usually allow you to have business cards and/or fliers sitting next to your donation the night of the auction.

A bead store can sponsor an activity for a non-profit.  For example, they could provide beads and supplies to a youth group.  A low cost, quick and easy project for such a group is a key ring.  If you choose a youth group connected to a charitable organization such as a church, you could ask for free publicity in return for the donation.  For example, the church could print  the upcoming event in it's newsletter, listing you as the sponsor.  This advertising technique could be especially effective if you hold beading parties.

Charitable organizations frequently hold bazaars or craft fairs throughout the year.  Cost of a table is minimal and the event is usually well advertised.  Some organizations waive table fees, instead asking for a percentage of sales.  If you have a large selection of merchandise, you could approach a hospital or other large group about having a one day sole-vendor fund raising sale at their site.  In this case, the organization will dictate the percentage of the gross they will take.  It can be as high as 30% but they present you with free advertising and rent as well as  a captive audience.

Want to hold the sale at your site?  Not a problem.  Have an 'awareness' or 'appreciation' day.  Invite your charity to present a workshop or lecture series.  If space permits, allow other fundraising events for the same organization to be present.  Donate a part of your sales to the organization.  The charity is able to  advertise this event internally to their customer base as well as externally to the community at large.  Most newspapers have a community bulletin board section dedicated to promoting events sponsored by non profits.  Inclusion in these bulletin boards is free for non profits - thus you get free publicity.

Not only do you get direct traffic and sales from advertising connected with charities, you also generate a lot of good will within the community.  People will think of your company as one that gives back to the community and they will respect you for that.  Maybe, though, the biggest benefit you will get is your own internal good feelings when you see how your time and money can be used to generate income for a cause to which you are committed.

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