Why take the pledge?

Alicia_Schmidt — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 00:59:54 GMT

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At Pledge 1%, we believe businesses around the world have a tremendous ability to tackle some of today’s biggest social challenges. At the same time, shifting stakeholder expectations are compelling companies to be deliberate in the ways they contribute to a more just, inclusive, sustainable, and equitable world.

Time, product, profit, or equity pledges can help address social issues while creating a culture that unites employees, shareholders, customers, and partners around shared values. In the last ten years, we’ve seen again and again how creating a culture of giving back is not just good for the world, but also good for business.

Why social impact is good for business

In fact, making a commitment to social impact fosters positive brand reputation, attracts and retains talent, mitigates risk, and contributes to long-term sustainability. Additionally, it meets stakeholder demands and enhances access to capital by appealing to socially responsible investors and funds. Ultimately, supporting social impact is both a moral imperative and a strategic business move that supports a company's growth and success in an ever-evolving world.

And while our name suggests pledging "1%" . . . our framework is flexible and allows your company to decide what, when and how much you give back. Integrating philanthropy and sustainability into your core provides the biggest, long-term benefits to your company and your employees.

How Pledge 1% is good for your business

Appeal to Consumers	Increase Shareholder Value
of consumers are motivated to purchase from companies committed to making the world a better place (AFLAC CSR Survey 2019).	of investors believe efforts to help improve society and the environment contribute to return (AFLAC CSR Survey 2019).
Attract Top Talent	Increase Growth
of workers say having societal impact is a strong expectation or deal breaker when considering a job (Edelman Trust Barometer 2023).	Companies with high employee engagement are 21% more profitable than ones with low engagement.

How Pledge 1% Benefits Your Employees

Increase Employee Productivity	Increase Employee Wellness
of employees who work at companies with a strong sense of purpose say they’re more inspired, motivated, and loyal ( (PN Purpose Tracker 2020).)	of US adults report lower stress levels due to volunteering.
Retain Talent
reduction in turnover for employees actively engaged in company giving and volunteering efforts (2018 Benevity Engagement Study).	Individuals who engage in volunteering regularly report lower levels of depression, greater life satisfaction and a heightened sense of purpose (PN Purpose Tracker: Employee Perspectives on Responsible Leadership During Crisis 2020).

How Pledge 1% Benefits the World

Together, Pledge 1% members have ignited over $2B in new corporate philanthropy and inspired over 60 unicorns to set aside equity to sustainably fund their social impact. Join us!

article Why take the pledge? in Pledge 1% Overview

Why take the pledge?

Why social impact is good for business

How Pledge 1% is good for your business

Appeal to Consumers

Increase Shareholder Value

Attract Top Talent

Increase Growth

How Pledge 1% Benefits Your Employees

Increase Employee Productivity

Increase Employee Wellness

Retain Talent

How Pledge 1% Benefits the World

Check out some of the amazing stories from some of our members.