As companies and organizations continue to evolve in their development of meaningful partnerships in their communities, JDRF continues to build purposeful partnerships in intentional ways that create significant impact for both companies and those living with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

In 2019 Business Roundtable released a new “Statement on the Purpose of a Corporation” – their updated and innovative principles of corporate governance signed by 181 CEO leaders. Referencing the larger role corporations are called to play, these corporate leaders committed to “supporting the communities in which we work. We respect the people in our communities and protect the environment by embracing sustainable practices across our businesses.”

The November 7, 2019 Partnership with Purpose Breakfast was an opportunity for JDRF to share its approach to corporate partnerships and the impact that JDRF (the leading global nonprofit organization funding T1D research) can have alongside corporate and organizational partners.
More than just a feel-good approach, there is solid data indicating what American consumers expect from companies they work for and patronize.  The 2019 Porter Novelli/Cone Purpose Biometrics Study revealed that 78% of Americans believe companies must do more than just generate profit; they must also have a positive impact on society and our communities. Leading with purpose can also result in enhanced corporate growth as Americans are loyal to and seek to make purchases from “companies that reflect their personal values … they believe supporting these companies is a way to show they care about issues that are important to them.”

Companies and nonprofits alike want to lead with purpose, but how are partnerships identified? Valuation services professional Dave Lindstrom, a director at investment banking company Stout who focuses on intangible asset valuation, shared highlights from his research hypothesizing the value of a nonprofit brand at the November event.

An evaluation of JDRF reveals that approximately 80 cents of every dollar is invested in mission activities. Further, for every $1 JDRF invests, another $2.50 is generated to support T1D research. This laser-focus on mission, and ability to leverage additional funding for T1D research, make JDRF a perfect partner for corporations seeking to go beyond “traditional philanthropy.”

JDRF’s unique values include providing support to and connections within the diabetes community; resources such as psychosocial support, Bag of Hope program and education programs like Type One Nation; and engaging health care providers through accredited, web-based programs and printed materials for them to give their patients.

Developing a shared-value partnership begins with purpose, focusing on the impact JDRF and corporate partners can have together. To learn more about JDRF’s shared-value approach and develop an impactful partnership, please contact Hannah Hoogenboom: hhoogenboom@jdrf.org | 303-209-7718.