A California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) fundraiser is a restaurant fundraising idea that allows schools, nonprofits, and community groups to raise money while supporters enjoy a meal. CPK offers two options: Dine to Donate events and gift card fundraising. Here’s how both methods work and how to get started.
What Is a California Pizza Kitchen Fundraiser?
A CPK fundraiser involves partnering with the restaurant to receive a portion of sales from supporters. The two fundraising options are:
- Dine to Donate events
- Gift card fundraising
Unlike some restaurants, California Pizza Kitchen does not appear to accept donation requests for raffles or auctions.
Who Can Start a California Pizza Kitchen Fundraiser?
For dine to donate events, your group must be a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit. Groups that typically qualify include:
- Schools
- Churches
- PTO/PTA groups
- Sports teams
- Community nonprofits
You’ll need to provide proof of nonprofit status, usually with a W9 or IRS determination letter. Dine to Donate events are only available in select states, including:
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Massachusetts
- Maryland
- Michigan
- Missouri
- North Carolina
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- Nevada
- New york
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Virginia
- Wisconsin
Gift card fundraising, on the other hand, is available nationwide through RaiseRight. Schools, sports teams, booster clubs, and other nonprofits are eligible.
How Does a California Pizza Kitchen Fundraiser Work?
Dine to Donate
- Supporters dine at a CPK location on a set date.
- 20% of food and beverage sales goes back to your group (excluding tax, gratuity, gift card, and retail purchases).
- Applies to dine-in, take-out, and online orders using your promo code or flyer.
- Third-party delivery apps like DoorDash and Grubhub are not eligible.
Most events are scheduled Monday through Wednesday with at least three weeks’ notice. After the event, CPK typically issues a check within 4–6 weeks. Groups can hold another event after 30 days.
Participation varies by location, so you’ll need to confirm with your local restaurant for eligible locations.
Gift Card Fundraising
Through RaiseRight, supporters buy CPK gift cards (or gift cards from hundreds of other brands).
- Up to 8% of each purchase goes to your group.
- You’ll get a unique link and code to share.
- Funds can be tracked and transferred via your RaiseRight dashboard.
This option is available everywhere, making it a reliable alternative if your local CPK doesn’t host Dine to Donate events.
How To Start a California Pizza Kitchen Fundraiser
- Dine to Donate: Apply directly with your local CPK or fill out their online fundraising application.
- Gift Cards: Register with RaiseRight to begin selling digital or physical gift cards.
If your group wants to raise more than restaurants typically provide, fill out this form to connect with a trusted fundraising partner who offers higher-earning options.
Is California Pizza Kitchen Fundraising Right for You?
A California Pizza Kitchen fundraiser can be a fun way to bring people together and raise money at the same time.
- Choose Dine to Donate if you’re located near a participating restaurant and can rally supporters to dine out.
- Choose gift cards if you want a nationwide option with year-round earning potential.
And remember: while restaurant fundraisers are a straightforward way to raise money, pairing them with other types of fundraisers may help you reach your goals faster.
