Business Partnership Program

In 2021, the Seward Community Foundation (SCF) launched the Business Partnership Program in collaboration with local businesses. The program aims to support SCF’s mission by creating fundraising opportunities through online booking systems. It all started when Stephanie Millane, the owner of Sunny Cove Kayaking, suggested adding a donation option during customer checkout to benefit SCF. This allowed customers to contribute while booking their activities. Stephanie’s business, Sunny Cove Kayaking, even pledged to match donations up to $2,000.

Excited about the concept of tourism philanthropy and working with local businesses, the SCF Advisory Board made the program accessible to all. Ryan Fisher, an Advisory Board member and owner of Exit Glacier Guides, recognized the program’s potential and quickly signed up. In the first year, 63% of Ryan’s customers chose to add a donation to their reservation.

A Seward Community Foundation Business Partner is a local business that actively collects donations for SCF. They offer an add-on or round-up option during the customer checkout process. Businesses can also choose to match the collected donations, amplifying their support for SCF’s mission. These partnerships are at the heart of building a thriving community for everyone.

To learn more about becoming an SCF Business Partner, please contact Ginger Allen, an SCF Advisory Board member, at (907)440-4723 or email Seward Community Foundation Program Manager Amy Hankins at seward@alaskacf.org. By joining this program, businesses in the Seward community can come together to strengthen the foundation and create a lasting, positive impact on local initiatives.