Amazon, the e-commerce giant, has been a significant player in the philanthropic world through its AmazonSmile program. However, as of February 20, 2023, Amazon has decided to discontinue AmazonSmile, stating that the program’s impact was often spread too thin and had not grown to create the impact they had originally hoped for. Despite this, there are still ways for charities to benefit from Amazon’s services and programs. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore all the relevant information about becoming an Amazon Charity.
Becoming an Amazon Charity was previously possible through the AmazonSmile program, which donated a portion of eligible purchases to registered 501(c)(3) public charities. However, Amazon has discontinued this program as of February 2023. Despite this, charities can still benefit from Amazon through other services and programs like Amazon Business Solutions for Nonprofits, Amazon FBA Donations Program, Community Investments, Disaster Relief by Amazon, and Amazon Wish Lists.
What is Amazon Charity?
Amazon Charity, also known as AmazonSmile, was a program that donated 0.5% of the total cost of eligible purchases on Amazon to a charitable organization or cause. The program was active from 2013 to 2023, and during this period, AmazonSmile had donated $400 million to charities. To help charities with the transition after the closure of AmazonSmile, Amazon provided them with a one-time donation equivalent to three months of what they earned in 2022 through the program.
Becoming an Amazon Charity: The Eligibility Criteria
To become an Amazon Charity, an organization needed to be a registered 501(c)(3) public charity in good standing with the IRS. However, since AmazonSmile is closing, it’s recommended to explore other options provided by Amazon for nonprofits, such as Amazon Business Solutions and the FBA Donations program.
Benefits of Becoming an Amazon Charity
Despite the closure of AmazonSmile, Amazon still offers several benefits for charitable organizations. These include:
- Amazon Business Solutions for Nonprofits: This service provides tailored solutions for nonprofits, including special discounts on Business Prime membership and Donation Driver for creating wish lists.
- Amazon FBA Donations Program: This program allows sellers to donate their excess or unsold inventory to Amazon’s partnered nonprofit charities.
- Community Investments: Amazon supports local communities through in-kind and cash donations.
- Disaster Relief by Amazon: Amazon leverages its logistics capabilities to provide fast aid to communities impacted by natural disasters.
- Amazon Wish Lists: Charities can create their own wish lists, allowing supporters to purchase items directly for the charity, helping to fulfill their specific needs.
Success Stories of Existing Amazon Charities
Amazon’s philanthropic efforts have significantly benefited various charities. For instance, the nonprofit CityServe and its local partners helped more than 20,000 people after receiving donations from Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) Donations. Amazon’s Disaster Relief team has responded to more than 95 natural disasters and donated more than 20 million relief products to nonprofits assisting communities on the ground.
Conclusion
While Amazon has discontinued its AmazonSmile program, it continues to invest in other philanthropic initiatives with greater impact. Charities can still benefit from Amazon by leveraging its other services and programs. By ensuring compliance with Amazon’s policies and leveraging available resources, nonprofits can continue to benefit from Amazon’s services and support.
References
Amazon Business Solutions for Nonprofits
Amazon FBA Donations Program
Amazon Disaster Relief
Amazon Wish Lists
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Amazon FBA Donations Program work?
The Amazon FBA Donations Program allows Amazon sellers to donate their excess or unsold inventory to Amazon’s partnered nonprofit charities. Sellers can opt for this program in their FBA account settings, and Amazon will automatically donate eligible items.
What is Amazon Business Solutions for Nonprofits?
Amazon Business Solutions for Nonprofits is a service tailored specifically for nonprofit organizations. It offers special discounts on Business Prime membership and provides a platform called Donation Driver, which helps nonprofits create wish lists of items they need.
Can any charity create an Amazon Wish List?
Yes, any charity can create an Amazon Wish List. It allows supporters to purchase items directly for the charity, helping to fulfill their specific needs.
How does Amazon support communities through disaster relief?
Amazon’s Disaster Relief program provides fast aid to communities impacted by natural disasters by leveraging its logistics capabilities. Amazon donates essential supplies and provides logistical support, helping nonprofits assisting communities on the ground.
What happened to the funds charities were receiving through AmazonSmile after its closure?
After the closure of AmazonSmile, Amazon provided charities with a one-time donation equivalent to three months of what they earned in 2022 through the program, to help them with the transition.
