A Chipotle fundraiser is a restaurant fundraising idea that lets schools, nonprofits, and community groups earn money from dine-to-donate events. Chipotle donates a portion of eligible sales back to your cause, making it a simple way to raise funds while supporters enjoy a burrito, bowl, or taco.
In this guide, we’ll explain how Chipotle fundraisers work, who can participate, and how much you can expect to raise.
What Is a Chipotle Fundraiser?
A Chipotle fundraiser is a dine-to-donate event where supporters order food during a scheduled time window and a percentage of sales go to your organization.
- Donation amount: 25% of eligible sales (higher than most restaurant fundraisers).
- Participation: Supporters order in person or online using your group’s unique code.
- Sales minimum: Your fundraiser must generate at least $150 in sales to receive a donation.
How Does a Chipotle Fundraiser Work?
- Apply – Submit an application at least three weeks before your preferred date.
- Schedule – Work with Chipotle to set an event time (usually 4–8 PM).
- Promote – Share your unique code with supporters and encourage participation.
- Dine – Supporters order in person or online, mentioning the fundraiser or using your code.
- Donation – Chipotle donates 25% of eligible sales, typically within a few weeks.
Who Can Start a Chipotle Fundraiser?
Chipotle works with a wide range of community groups, including:
- Schools (PTAs, clubs, sports, arts programs)
- University groups (Greek life, intramurals, student media)
- Nonprofits and community organizations
- Youth sports teams
- Libraries and community centers
Not eligible: for-profit businesses, political organizations, individual medical or travel expenses, or religious groups fundraising for religious purposes.
How Much Do You Make From Chipotle Fundraisers?
Chipotle donates 25% of eligible event sales to your organization, provided the fundraiser meets a minimum sales threshold of $150. For example:
- Average transaction: ~$10 per person
- Example turnout: 100 people → $1,000 in total sales
- Donation: 25% of $1,000 = $250
On average, organizations earn $150–$450 per event, but larger groups with strong promotion can raise more.
Advantages of a Chipotle Fundraiser
- High donation rate – 25%, one of the more generous among major chains.
- No upfront costs – You only need to promote the event.
- Simple to organize – The process is streamlined and requires minimal effort.
- Proven success – Chipotle has hosted close to half a million fundraisers and raised more than $109 million.
- Wide appeal – Chipotle is a popular brand, making it easier to attract participants.
Drawbacks of a Chipotle Fundraiser
- Limited event window – Usually 4–8 PM only.
- Sales minimum – At least $150 in sales required to qualify.
- Restaurant-controlled logistics – Less flexibility to add custom activities.
- Modest returns – While 25% is pretty good, total earnings may be lower than other types of fundraisers.
How To Start a Chipotle Fundraiser
- Check your eligibility.
- Apply online through Chipotle’s fundraising page.
- Wait for approval and event confirmation.
- Promote your fundraiser using your code.
- Host your event and collect proceeds.
Looking for higher-earning fundraiser ideas beyond restaurants? Fill out this form to connect with a partner who can help maximize your results.
Is Chipotle Fundraising Right for You?
Chipotle fundraisers are straightforward, low-effort, and offer one of the better restaurant donation percentages. They’re a great option if you want a simple, community-friendly event that doesn’t require upfront costs. That said, the time limits and sales minimums mean it won’t always generate big returns on its own.
If your group has a strong supporter base, Chipotle fundraising can be an easy win. For larger goals, consider pairing it with other fundraising options to maximize impact.
