Partnerships - Making Them Work 

Gifts in kind can apply to a variety of business contributions. These may range from donation of office equipment, office space, premises, promotional material, or auction items. As well as giving equipment that businesses produce or distribute, organisations can also donate equipment that they no longer use, such as computers. Gifts in kind can often lead to a longer-term and more in-depth relationships between organisations.

Before giving it is necessary to ensure that the community organisation is in need of the items available and that it can afford to maintain them. Gifts of computers, for example, should be given with the assurance that the computers will be useful and reliable for the work of the community group. It would also be considerate to offer your business computing technicians to assist in the installation of the computers.

As an alternative to presenting one-off gifts, companies can give small, regular donations. This ensures that a real partnership is developed with the community group. Buying simple items such as stationery can greatly reduce overheads for small community groups and using a business’s bulk-ordering capacity is an effective way for community and business collaboration to begin.

Providing office space and facilities is another way to support and understand community partners better. By having close contact with your community partner, a business can open the lines of communication and facilitate risk assessment and stakeholder engagement

The Visual Arts Association of Far North Queensland

The Visual Arts Association of Far North Queensland wanted to ensure that local artists’ work was displayed regularly and prominently to appropriate audiences. Their partnership with Daikyo has achieved these aims while at the same time giving Daikyo the opportunity to promote the Paradise Palms Golf Course as 'more than just a golf club'.

The bi-monthly Champagne Breakfast Arts and Music Openings provide a sophisticated venue to display the local work. They also give golfers the opportunity to enjoy and purchase premier artwork from the region.

The success of the initial years of the partnership has led the golf course to establish a permanent display space, the Atrium Gallery. The project has gained considerable local support with regular visitors, maximum attendance at openings and valuable art sales.

The gallery space is donated as are the catering supplies and staff time for the champagne breakfasts. The golf course considers this a minimal investment for maximum returns.

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