They can. It'd be better if they asked other orgs and individuals to publicly support the task, even without funding it.
Its to raise awareness
advertise their business* and raise more VC money
They could set a smaller target or ask for 1-dollar donations if they’re after maximum exposure. Here’s hoping they actually donate the entire raised amount to a non-profit, because yeah I don’t get the feeling they need the money at all.
They would receive even more blow-back for $1 dollnations from HN here.