Header Photo Credit: The Boeing Company
Over the past several years, Lowcountry Land Trust’s Corporate Impact Program has quietly but powerfully evolved. What began as a traditional, event-focused sponsorship model has grown into a relationship-building platform that connects mission-aligned businesses to lasting conservation impact across the Lowcountry. Today, the program is a vital driver of both long-term partnerships and financial support, helping ensure that the landscapes and waterways defining our region are protected forever.
Historically, corporate sponsorships were primarily tied to individual events, such as fundraisers, celebrations, or community gatherings, which raised awareness and much-needed funds for conservation. While those events remain an important part of our outreach, experience has shown us something deeper: when companies understand the scope of our work and see tangible results over time, they want to invest more meaningfully. The Corporate Impact Program, as it exists today, was built to meet that moment.
By shifting from one-off sponsorships to an annual, mission-centered approach, Lowcountry Land Trust created a pathway for businesses to engage year-round. Annual sponsorships now offer partners consistent visibility, deeper storytelling, and opportunities to connect their values with conservation outcomes that matter to their employees, customers, and communities. The result has been remarkable growth, not just in the strength and longevity of our corporate relationships, but also in dollars raised.
In its former model in FY 2022, the program generated $58,080 from 31 gifts. By FY 2023, when the transition to an annual model occurred, the support had nearly tripled to $159,500 from 35 gifts. Growth continued in FY 2024, reaching $218,950, and in FY 2025, corporate support climbed again to $257,000 across 53 gifts. These figures include annual sponsorships, Business Leadership Council memberships, event-specific sponsorships, and gifts-in-kind, reflecting the various ways businesses support our mission.
As of December 2025, halfway through FY 2026, annual sponsorships have already totaled $192,000, with an additional $29,000 in event-specific sponsorships, bringing the Corporate Impact Program’s combined income to $221,000. The program features over 30 active annual sponsors, boasting an impressive renewal rate of 98 percent, a clear indication that partners recognize real value in their involvement.
Behind these figures are relationships built on trust, shared values, and demonstrated impact. One of the most striking examples is The Boeing Company. For nearly a decade, Boeing supported Lowcountry Land Trust through annual event sponsorships ranging from $5,000 to $20,000. Over time, as the relationship deepened and the impact of our work became clearer, that support transformed. In 2024, Boeing made a $100,000 investment in the Angel Oak Preserve project, an iconic conservation effort protecting one of the region’s most treasured natural landmarks. In 2025, that commitment grew even further, with a $1 million gift toward the same initiative. What began as modest event support evolved into a transformational investment in the Lowcountry’s natural and cultural heritage.
This kind of growth is exactly what the Corporate Impact Program is designed to cultivate. Sponsorship dollars directly advance Lowcountry Land Trust’s mission, protecting landscapes, waterways, and wildlife for the benefit of present and future generations. Just as importantly, the program helps us establish new connections, broaden our reach within the regional business community, and foster lasting partnerships rooted in shared stewardship of the Lowcountry.
As conservation challenges become increasingly complex, the need for robust, collaborative partnerships has never been greater. This program reflects Lowcountry Land Trust’s commitment to meeting those challenges with creativity, accountability, and relationship-driven philanthropy. We extend our sincere gratitude to our corporate impact partners, celebrated online and in the 2025 Impact Report, for their continued and growing support.
Lowcountry Land Trust recognizes that every business/corporation has a different capacity to give, offering various levels of support and payment schedules. New sponsors begin their year of recognition from the date of commitment. Contact Bea Girndt, Corporate & Major Gifts Director at bgirndt@lowcountrylandtrust.org to learn more.
