How to Start a Printer Cartridge Recycling Program to Raise Money for Your Non Profit Organization

It's no secret that many charities and non-profit organizations are strapped for cash, and many of these organizations are looking for new and innovative ways to raise funds to support their programs. Since the widespread proliferation of personal computers, many people regularly have inkjet printer cartridges that just get thrown away when they are empty. Fortunately, many companies are now offering printer cartridge recycling programs which allow non-profits to raise much needed funds while also helping the environment by reducing waste.

Setting up one of these recycling programs to raise money for your organization is easy. First, you need to find a company that offers an inkjet recycling program. A quick Google search will yield hundreds of different companies that will pay for used ink cartridges. Try to find the company that pays the highest price per cartridge and that doesn't have a minimum payout. I picked Empties4Cash.com for the non-profit organization I work with, but you may find another company which works better for you.

After signing up with one of the printer cartridge recycling companies, they should send you some prepaid envelopes that you and your supporters can use to send in the empty ink cartridges. Each envelope should have a code for your organization, so literally all you'll need to do is put the cartridges in the envelope and drop it in a mailbox. Once the recycling company receives and approves the cartridges, they'll make out a check and send it to your non-profit. It really couldn't get much easier.

Next, you'll need to spread the word about your recycling program so your supporters know they can donate old printer cartridges to help your organization. Announce your recycling program at group meetings and events, and if your group has a newsletter or website, be sure to include a plea for cartridge donations there as well. The key to a successful inkjet recycling program is reminders--most people only change their printer cartridges 3 or 4 times per year, so you want to make your program is fresh in their mind when their printer runs out of ink. Also, encourage group members to collect printer cartridges from their friends and family. After all, each cartridge you are able to collect means more money for your organization.

Finally, make it as easy as possible for people to donate their used ink cartridges. Some people will want to mail in the cartridges themselves, while others will simply want to drop them off with you. Be sure to accommodate their request either way. By following these simple steps, my animal rights group in Baltimore has been able to raise over $200 in a short amount of time. With a little effort, your group can run a successful printer cartridge recycling program too!