Sage, a supplier of accounting and payroll software to the small to medium sized business community, has launched the Sage Foundation which sets the standard for ‘Corporate Compassionate Capitalism’ around the world.
 
Each of Sage’s 14,000 employees will be able to contribute five days per year in work time to volunteer with any non-profit organisation they elect to support, said a statement.

The foundation will also give grants to create entrepreneurial opportunities for the young and disadvantaged within communities, as well as grants to match employee charitable donations and fundraising.
 
The Sage Foundation has created a model of ‘2+2+2’: donating two per cent of employee time each year (five days), two per cent of free cash flow and two of Sage’s smart technology products for any charity, social enterprise or non-profit organisation.

This model demonstrates Sage’s commitment to philanthropic leadership in the FTSE 100.

Driven by Sage’s ambition to connect its customers, colleagues and communities within an integrated model, the Sage Foundation will be open for business globally from October 1.  
 
With tens of thousands of non-profit organisations as existing Sage customers, the foundation will enhance Sage’s relationship with charity and social enterprise.

Non-profit organisations will be able to apply for donated Sage One, Sage Life or X3 products, through the newly created donation programme.
 
Ivan Epstein, chairman of Sage Foundation and chief executive officer of Sage Africa and Asia, said: “At Sage we care and are committed to enhancing the lives of the less fortunate in a meaningful and sustainable way. The Sage Foundation will provide support to non-profit organizations and communities around the world by sharing the resources of Sage.

“We will help these organisations to create social impact by giving our time, money, expertise and technology. Sage is at the heart of millions of businesses around the globe who play a vital role in their communities. By partnering with the non-profit sector we will free organisations from operational complexity and enable them to run efficient, socially-driven organisations.” - TradeArabia News Service