Are you looking to make a positive impact in the world and raise money for a cause close to your heart? One of the most effective ways to do so is by organizing a fundraiser!
Fundraising also provides an opportunity to build community, inspire others, and develop valuable skills.
But with so many types of fundraisers and strategies, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
That’s why we’ve created the Ultimate Fundraiser Guide, your one-stop resource for all things fundraising!
Below, we discuss types of fundraisers, step-by-step advice, and creative ideas, explaining everything you need to know to make an impact through fundraising.
So, get ready to explore the world of fundraising and discover how to turn your passion into a powerful force for good.
Table of Contents
What Is A Fundraiser?
A fundraiser is an event or campaign designed to generate funds for a particular cause, organization, or charity.
The goal of a fundraiser is to encourage people to donate money, time, or resources to support your cause.
To make your fundraiser successful, you need to have a clear goal and plan in place. You’ll need to think about the right type of fundraiser for your cause, and which we discuss in more detail below.
You also need to promote your fundraiser to reach as many people as possible and encourage them to donate.
Ultimately, a fundraiser is about bringing people together to support a common cause.
Whether you’re supporting a local charity, a school program, or a global cause, a fundraiser is a powerful way to raise awareness and make a difference in the world.
Types of Fundraising
Fundraising is an essential component of nonprofit work.
After all, they allow organizations to raise the necessary funds to support their mission and programs.
However, there are many types of fundraisers, each with its own benefits and challenges.
In this section, we’ll explore the different types of fundraisers, including peer-to-peer fundraisers, corporate giving, and foundation grants.
Peer To Peer Fundraising
Peer-to-peer fundraisers are a popular type of fundraising that allows individuals to leverage their personal networks to raise money for a cause or organization.
In a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign, you would create a fundraising page and then invite your friends, family, and colleagues to donate to your cause.
As donors give, they can also share your page with their own networks. This creates a ripple effect of fundraising that can quickly grow your donor base and raise a significant amount of money.
These types of fundraisers are particularly effective for causes that have a strong emotional appeal, or that benefit from a sense of community involvement.
Since any donation from someone in your network is considered peer to peer fundraising, there are virtually limitless ideas.
Below, we break P2P fundraising down to two types: Event-based Fundraisers and Online Fundraisers.
Event-Based Fundraisers
Event-based fundraisers are a subtype of peer-to-peer fundraising where people encourage their personal contacts to come to an event and donate to their cause.
You can opt to sell tickets, request donations, or even combine multiple event ideas into one.
Some event ideas include:
These events can generate a sense of camaraderie and community, with participants supporting each other and celebrating together.
All in all, event-based peer-to-peer fundraisers can be highly effective in raising funds quickly, especially when they are well-organized and well-promoted.
Online Fundraisers
While throwing an event can be a great way to raise funds, it isn’t strictly necessary.
For example, you can create your P2P fundraising page and promote your cause in your network using a variety of techniques like:
- Virtual Awareness Campaigns
- Social Media Campaigns
- Viral Challenge Campaigns
Each of the methods above can be a great way to spread the word about your cause and encourage people to donate.
Finally, keep in mind that you may want to combine fundraising techniques.
For example, you could hold an event, online or in-person, and promote it on social media.
At the same time, you might also consider starting a viral challenge and using it to promote your cause, event, and P2P page simultaneously.
Raising Money From Companies
Raising money from companies differs from peer-to-peer fundraising because it involves soliciting financial support from businesses instead of individuals.
Rather than create a personal fundraising page, you need to identify potential corporate partners aligned with your cause. Then, you reach out to them with a specific proposal.
This could involve outlining how their financial support would benefit your cause, as well as the benefits they’d receive.
Building relationships with companies takes time and effort, but it’s an effective way to raise significant amounts of money.
Additionally, it provides a valuable opportunity for your organization to form partnerships and build long-term connections.
National Philanthropic Trust reports that “corporate giving in 2021 increased to $21.08 billion.” This means there is plenty of money to be raised using this fundraising method.
Below, we discuss a few methods for raising money from companies.
Matching Gifts
Matching grants provide a way to leverage a single donation into a much larger contribution.
With a matching grant, a company agrees to match donations made by individual donors up to a certain amount.
For example, a company may agree to match every dollar donated by individuals up to $10,000, effectively doubling the impact of every donation.
Matching grants can incentivize donors to give more generously, because they know their contribution have a greater impact.
They can also be an attractive opportunity for companies, because they showcase their commitment to philanthropy and community involvement.
When seeking a matching grant, it’s important to ensure that the terms are clear and that the donation process is easy for donors to understand.
Communicating the impact of the matching grant is an effective way to maximize the amount each person gives.
Corporate Grants
Corporate grants are a type of donation made by companies to nonprofit organizations.
Unlike matching grants, which are based on individual donations, corporate grants are often larger, one-time contributions.
To secure a corporate grant, nonprofits typically need to submit a grant proposal outlining the initiative they would like to fund.
They also need to explain how it aligns with the company’s philanthropic goals.
This can be a competitive process, as many nonprofits may be vying for the same grant opportunities.
However, corporate grants provide a significant source of funding for organizations that secure them successfully.
They can also help nonprofits build relationships with corporate partners and open doors for future collaboration.
When seeking corporate grants, it’s important to research the companies most likely to be aligned with your cause or program.
It’s also key to carefully craft a proposal displaying the impact their donation will have on the community you serve.
Volunteer Grants
Volunteer grants, also known as “dollars for doers,” are a unique way for companies to support their employees’ philanthropic efforts.
With a volunteer grant, companies donate money to nonprofit organizations where their employees volunteer their time.
Typically, the company sets a minimum number of volunteer hours required before a grant can be awarded, such as 10 or 20 hours.
Once the employee has reached the minimum hours threshold, they can submit a request to their employer for a volunteer grant.
Depending on the company’s policies, these grants can vary in size. However, they can be a valuable source of funding for nonprofit organizations.
Volunteer grants are also a great way for companies to engage their employees in corporate social responsibility initiatives and build a culture of giving back.
In-Kind Donations
In-kind donations are non-monetary contributions made by companies in the form of goods or services. These donations can take many forms, such as:
- Products
- Equipment
- Professional services
- Expertise
This can be a valuable source of support for nonprofit organizations, as they can help to offset expenses and reduce overhead costs.
For example, a company may donate office supplies or furniture to a nonprofit, reducing their operating costs and freeing up more funds.
In-kind donations can also help to enhance the quality of services provided by nonprofits, such as pro bono legal or accounting services.
When seeking in-kind donations, it’s important to be specific about your needs and identify companies that may be able to fulfill them.
Nonprofits can also cultivate relationships with companies by acknowledging their in-kind donations publicly and providing recognition for their support.
Raising Money From Foundations
Raising money from foundations involves soliciting grants from private or public institutions established to support specific causes or issues.
Foundations can be funded by:
- Individuals
- Families
- Corporations
- Governments
They typically have a mission statement outlining the types of programs or organizations they support.
Unlike peer-to-peer fundraising or corporate giving, which may involve individual donations or sponsorships, foundation grants tend to be larger, one-time contributions.
These are awarded through a competitive application process.
To secure a foundation grant, nonprofits must submit a detailed proposal explaining their program, its goals, and its expected outcomes.
Proposals are evaluated based on a variety of criteria. For example, foundations are likely to consider:
- Your organization’s track record
- The strength of your proposal
- The alignment of your program with the foundation’s mission
While securing foundation grants is challenging, they’re a valuable source of funding for organizations that obtain them successfully.
NPT reports that “foundation giving in 2021 increased to $90.88 billion.” That’s over four times more than corporate giving, making this a great pathway to raise money for your cause.
We discuss two types of ways to raise money from foundations below.
Community Foundation Grants
Community foundation grants are awarded by a local foundation supporting nonprofit organizations in a specific geographic area.
These foundations are often funded by:
- Local individuals
- Families
- Corporations
Their main goal is supporting causes and organizations that are important to the community they serve.
Community foundation grants can be a valuable source of funding for local nonprofits.
This is largely because they’re more familiar with the priorities of the community compared to larger national foundations.
To secure a community foundation grant, nonprofits typically need to submit a proposal outlining their program and its expected impact on the local community.
Community foundations may also prioritize programs addressing specific community needs, such as:
- Education
- Health
- Environment
When seeking a community foundation grant, it’s key to research the foundation’s mission and tailor your proposal accordingly.
Building relationships with foundation representatives and attending community events can also be effective ways to connect with local foundations.
Private Foundation Grants
Private foundation grants are awarded by privately-funded foundations or family foundations.
These foundations are typically established by individuals or families with significant financial resources who are committed to supporting specific causes.
Private foundation grants can be a big source of funding for nonprofit organizations, as they may offer larger grant amounts than community foundations.
However, the application process for private foundation grants is highly competitive. Nonprofits will need to demonstrate a strong track record of success and a clear plan for achieving their goals.
To secure a private foundation grant, nonprofits typically submit a proposal explaining their program or project.
Private foundations may also require site visits or additional information to evaluate the program or organization.
Who Can Start A Fundraiser?
Anyone can start a fundraiser!
Whether you’re an individual looking to make a difference, a member of a nonprofit organization, or part of a community group, you have the power to launch a successful fundraising campaign.
Fundraising can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to raise awareness and funds for causes important to you.
With the rise of online platforms and social media, it’s easier than ever to launch a fundraiser and reach a wide audience.
You don’t need to be an expert in fundraising to get started!
All you really need is a passion for your cause, a clear goal, and a willingness to put in the effort and make it happen.
So why not take the first step and start a fundraiser today?
With a little creativity and hard work, you can make a real difference in your community and beyond.
Why Should You Start A Fundraiser?
According to National Philanthropic Trust, “Americans gave $484.85 billion in 2021.”
This shows that charitable donations are a great way to raise money for organizations doing meaningful work!
However, there are plenty of other reasons to consider fundraising too.
In this section, we’ll explore some of the top reasons why you should start a fundraiser.
1. Pursue A Passionate Cause
Starting a fundraiser is a great way to pursue a passionate cause you care deeply about.
Whether it’s fighting climate change, supporting a local animal shelter, or advocating for social justice, you can make an impact on the world.
When you start a fundraiser for a passionate cause, you display a higher level of energy and commitment, inspiring others to get involved.
In fact, sharing your personal connection to the cause can motivate others to donate and share your campaign.
This can also be a deeply rewarding experience.
After all, you get to see firsthand the impact of your efforts and the difference you’re making in the lives of others. This also helps build a sense of purpose and fulfillment in your own life.
In short, pursuing a passionate cause through a fundraiser is an excellent way to make a difference in the world, inspire others, and find personal fulfillment.
2. Make A Difference In Your Community
Planning fundraisers is an excellent way to make a difference in your community. By raising funds for a local cause or organization, you can help address a problem or issue affecting the lives of those around you.
Fundraisers bring people together around a common goal, building a sense of community and camaraderie.
This can help to foster relationships and create a sense of unity extending beyond the fundraiser itself.
It also provides an opportunity to engage with and support local businesses and organizations.
For example, you might partner with a local restaurant to host a fundraiser night, where a portion of the proceeds goes towards your cause.
This type of collaboration can help to build stronger ties between your community and local businesses, benefiting everyone involved.
Overall, starting a fundraiser is a powerful way to create positive change and build connections with those around you.
3. Raise Awareness About An Important Issue
If you bring attention to an issue and mobilize people to take action, you can help create a more just and equitable society.
Raising awareness about an issue can take many forms. It could involve anything from sharing information and stories on social media to hosting events that draw attention.
Raising awareness allows you to educate people about the issue and encourage them to take action to address it.
In addition to raising awareness, a fundraiser can also provide an opportunity to support organizations working to address these issues.
This can help to provide crucial resources for organizations on the front lines of fighting for change.
4. Honor A Loved One
Fundraisers can also be a meaningful way to honor a loved one affected by a particular issue or cause.
Whether it’s in memory of someone who passed away or to support a struggling friend, they can be power tributes.
We can keep their memory alive and continue their legacy by supporting causes that were important to them.
It’s a way to celebrate their life and the impact they had on those around them.
In addition, starting a fundraiser to honor a loved one can be a cathartic and healing experience.
It can provide a sense of purpose and meaning during a difficult time. This allows us to channel our grief and pain into something positive and meaningful.
Honoring loved ones with a fundraiser is a beautiful way to pay tribute to the people we care about and to support causes important to them.
It’s a way to keep their memory alive and to make a positive impact in the world in their name.
5. Build Community Around A Common Goal
Fundraising can also be an excellent way to build community around a common goal. After all, bringing people together to support your cause creates a sense of unity and shared purpose.
When you start a fundraiser to build community, you’re creating a space for people to come together.
This can take many forms, from hosting events and rallies to building online communities around a shared cause.
By bringing people together around a common goal, you can create a sense of enthusiasm to drive your campaign forward.
Ultimately, organizing a fundraiser to build community is an excellent way to create positive change and foster relationships with those around you.
6. Develop Professional Skills
Fundraisers are also an excellent opportunity to develop leadership and organizational skills.
Running a successful fundraiser requires a range of skills, from project management to communication and marketing.
When you start a fundraiser, you take on a leadership role, which is a great chance to develop your skills and grow as a person.
Managing a team of volunteers, coordinating events, and communicating with donors gives you valuable professional experience.
Additionally, planning a fundraiser can also help you develop skills in fundraising, marketing, and communication. You’ll need to be able to:
- Communicate your message effectively
- Create compelling marketing materials
- Build relationships with donors
Developing these skills through a fundraiser can have long-term benefits for your career and personal development.
This is true whether you’re looking to start your own business or work in the nonprofit sector.
7. Inspire Others
Inspiring others is a great way to make a difference in the world.
By sharing your commitment to a cause, you can motivate others to make a positive impact in their own way.
When you start a fundraiser, you become a leader and a role model, demonstrating the power of collective action and the importance of giving back.
Sharing your personal stories allows you to connect with others on a deeper level and inspire them to take action.
Inspiring others to get involved can take many forms, from sharing your fundraiser on social media to hosting events.
A fundraiser can also provide an opportunity to meet like-minded people.
This allows new connections to develop in your community, and hopefully inspire others to collaborate!
How To Start A Fundraiser
Starting a fundraiser can seem overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it can be a highly-rewarding experience.
Whether you’re an individual, nonprofit member, or part of a community group, fundraisers are a great way to raise awareness and funds for good causes.
In this section, we’ll outline the key steps to start a successful fundraiser, from choosing a cause or organization to collecting donations.
By following these steps, you’ll lay the foundation for a successful campaign!
1. Choose A Cause or Organization
To start your own fundraiser, it’s important to select a cause or organization you want to support.
This involves researching different options that align with your values or interests.
Start by asking yourself what issues you’re passionate about and the organizations working towards those causes. You can also reach out to your network to gather information on organizations that they’ve supported.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, do further research on the potential organizations to ensure they’re legitimate and align with your goals. This may involve:
- Examining the organization’s mission statement
- Evaluating their transparency and track record
- Reaching out to them to ask questions
By taking the time to carefully select a cause or organization to support, you ensure your fundraising efforts make a meaningful impact.
In addition to selecting a cause or organization, it’s also important to consider your personal connection to the cause.
Perhaps you have a personal experience or story driving your passion for the cause. Or, maybe you’re motivated by the experiences of others close to you.
If you identify your personal connection to the cause, you can better communicate the importance of the fundraiser to potential supporters.
2. Define Your Fundraising Goals
It’s essential to set clear and achievable goals to guide your entire fundraising process.
When defining your goals, you need to figure out the amount of money you need to raise. You also need to understand the purpose of raising the funds.
To define your fundraising goals, start by setting a specific fundraising target. Be realistic and make sure your target is achievable within a specific time frame.
Next, identify the purpose of your fundraiser. You need to communicate to your donors and supporters why you’re raising funds and how they’ll be used.
Be specific and clear about the purpose of the funds.
For instance, if you’re raising funds for a charity, communicate how the funds will be used to support the cause. This helps your donors understand the importance of their contributions, motivating them to give more generously.
Finally, it’s important to prioritize your fundraising goals.
If you have multiple objectives, identify the most critical ones and focus on them first.
This helps you avoid spreading yourself too thin, ensuring you achieve your most important tasks first.
3. Decide On A Type of Fundraiser
Next, you need to decide on a fundraising event or campaign.
This involves brainstorming different ideas for how you can effectively raise funds for your cause.
As you develop your fundraising plan, think about your:
- Target audience
- Budget
- Available resources
One option is to organize an event, such as a fun run, silent auction, or gala.
This can be a great way to bring people together in support of your cause while also raising money.
Alternatively, you may choose to run a campaign, such as an online P2P campaign or social media challenge.
This can be a more accessible and low-cost way to raise funds and reach a larger audience.
As you decide on the type of event or campaign to run, it’s important to consider the practicality of your ideas.
Make sure you factor in any costs associated with the event or campaign, such as venue rental or marketing expenses.
You may also consider partnering with other organizations or sponsors to help fund or support your fundraiser.
Ultimately, selecting the right type of fundraising event or campaign is key to successfully raising money and awareness for your cause.
4. Establish A Fundraiser Team
The fourth step in starting a fundraiser is establishing a fundraising team. This involves finding people willing to support your cause and help you execute your fundraising plan.
Building a strong team allows you to delegate tasks and responsibilities. Additionally, you can benefit from a diversity of skills and expertise.
Start by identifying individuals who are passionate about your cause. It also helps if they have a strong network or skill set that could benefit your fundraiser.
Additionally, consider reaching out to your personal network and community to find individuals interested in getting involved.
If possible, try assembling a team that has a variety of skills, such as:
- Marketing
- Event planning
- Fundraising experience
When your team’s established, begin by communicating your goals and expectations to ensure everyone’s on board.
Finally, make sure to schedule regular team meetings and check-ins to keep everyone on track.
5. Set Time Frames
The fifth step in starting a fundraiser is setting a time frame for your fundraising campaign or event.
This involves selecting a start and end date for your fundraiser. Additionally, you need to identify any key milestones or deadlines along the way.
When selecting a time frame, consider:
- The goals of your fundraiser
- The availability of your team and supporters
- External factors that could impact your event or campaign
For example, if you’re organizing a fun run, you want to schedule it during a time with good weather and minimal competing events.
Be sure to also consider the length of your fundraising campaign or event.
You need to strike a balance between giving your team and supporters enough time to fundraise, while still promoting a sense of urgency to encourage donations.
Finally, identify any key milestones or deadlines that will help keep your team and supporters on track.
For example, you might set a goal to reach a certain amount of donations by a particular date, or have all event planning tasks completed by a certain deadline.
Overall, setting clear timeframes for your fundraiser ensures everyone stays focused and motivated.
6. Promote Your Fundraiser
The sixth step in starting a fundraiser is developing a promotional plan. This involves creating a strategy to raise awareness for your fundraiser and encourage donations.
Think about the different channels you can use to promote your fundraiser, such as:
- Social media
- Email marketing
- Traditional media outlets
You should also be sure to tailor your messaging and tone to your audience. Keep in mind that compelling visuals and stories can highlight the importance of your cause.
Additionally, consider partnering with other organizations or sponsors to help promote your fundraiser. This could help expand your reach and potentially bring in additional donations.
When developing your promotional plan, make sure to also consider the logistics of your plan.
For example, make sure you have access to any fundraising platforms or tools required to conduct your promotions.
Finally, you should regularly evaluate and adjust your promotional plan. Monitor the success of your promotions, and adjust your messaging and tactics as needed.
7. Launch Your Fundraiser
Now it’s time to launch your fundraiser!
This is where all your hard work in the planning stage pays off.
The key to a successful launch is to generate excitement and interest in your campaign.
Here are some tips for launching your fundraiser.
Create a compelling story
People are more likely to donate to your cause if they can connect with your story.
So, create a narrative capturing the essence of your cause, highlighting its importance and impact.
Use images, videos, and other multimedia to bring your story to life.
Host a launch event
A launch event can be a great way to generate excitement and rally support for your cause.
Consider hosting a virtual or in-person event explaining your cause and introducing your fundraising goals.
Be sure to invite your community members, volunteers, and donors.
Reach out to your networks
Don’t be afraid to ask for support from your personal and professional networks.
For example, send emails and make phone calls to let people know about your fundraiser and how they can contribute.
Finally, keep in mind that the launch is just the beginning of your fundraiser.
However, with a strong launch, you can build momentum and generate more donations for your fundraiser.
8. Collect Donations and Track Progress
Once you’ve launched your fundraiser, you can start collecting donations and keeping track of your progress.
Make it easy for donors to contribute by ensuring the donation process is user-friendly and straightforward.
Also, provide clear instructions and multiple payment options, such as credit cards or online payments.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to regularly update your donors on the progress of the fundraiser. You can do this by sharing updates through social media or email newsletters.
You may also consider encouraging donors to contribute more generously by offering incentives such as:
- Prizes
- Discounts
- Recognition
Remember to also monitor your expenses and make sure you’re not overspending. Monitoring also ensures the funds raised are going directly towards the cause.
By tracking your progress, you can identify any gaps and make adjustments to your fundraising strategy.
9. Express Appreciation To Donors
It’s vital to let your supporters know their contributions are valued and they’re making a difference.
A simple thank-you message can go a long way in showing your appreciation.
So, send a personalized message or letter to each donor. Express your gratitude for their contribution, explaining how their donation makes a difference.
Providing regular updates on the progress of your program or project is another way to keep donors engaged.
Share success stories and milestones with your supporters to help them feel connected to the cause.
Expressing your appreciation and gratitude can strengthen your relationship with donors, encouraging them to continue supporting your cause in the future.
10. Close Your Fundraiser and Report The Results
Closing the fundraiser is the final step in your campaign. Once you’ve reached your fundraising goal or designated end date, it’s time to wrap up and report on the results.
First, provide a detailed report on the results of your fundraiser. This report should include the:
- Total amount raised
- Number of donors
- Impact of the funds raised
Share this report with your fundraiser committee, donors, and the organization or cause you supported.
The report should be clear, concise, and transparent, highlighting the success of your campaign and its impact.
It’s also important to evaluate the success of your fundraiser and identify areas for improvement. Then, use this information to plan future fundraising campaigns.
Finally, celebrate the success of your fundraiser and the impact it will have on the community.
For example, consider hosting a celebratory event or sharing success stories on social media.
Celebrating the success of your fundraiser is essential for building momentum and encouraging continued support for your cause.
It can also help build relationships with supporters, and show donors their contributions make a real difference.
Does It Cost Money To Start A Fundraiser?
Starting a fundraiser doesn’t have to be expensive!
However, it’s important to consider the costs involved in executing a successful campaign.
While some types of fundraisers may require more upfront costs than others, there are several ways to keep costs low and while making a big impact.
Here are some costs to consider when starting a fundraiser:
- Marketing and Promotion: Promoting your fundraiser can be a significant cost. However, there are many free or low-cost ways to promote your campaign, such as:
- Using social media platforms
- Creating flyers
- Reaching out to local media outlets
- Venue and Equipment: Depending on the type of fundraiser, you may need to rent a venue or equipment. However, there are ways to keep costs low, such as:
- Hosting virtual events
- Partnering with local businesses to provide equipment or space
- Payment Processing Fees: Many online fundraising platforms charge a fee for processing donations. Be sure to research these fees and consider them when choosing a platform.
- Administrative Costs: Depending on the size of your fundraiser, you may need to hire staff or volunteers to handle administrative tasks. These may include accounting, donor management, and communications. However, you can also utilize volunteer support or outsource to third-party service providers.
How Much Does It Cost To Start A Fundraiser?
The costs involved in organizing a fundraiser differ depending on what type of fundraiser you’re trying to do.
While some organizations may need to purchase advanced fundraising software and invest large sums of money, others can start for free.
For example, many fundraising companies will let you start a no-risk fundraiser.
Instead of paying upfront costs, these businesses take a percentage of the profits but do most of the heavy lifting.
Additionally, you could start an event-based fundraiser on either a large or small budget.
It all really depends on your available resources.
How To Fundraise With No Money
While starting a fundraiser can involve some costs, it’s also possible to fundraise with little or no money.
Here are some tips for fundraising on a tight budget:
- Use social media: Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are free to use and can be powerful promotional tools. You can reach a wider audience by:
- Posting updates
- Sharing photos
- Using hashtags
- Leverage your network: Reach out to friends, family, and colleagues, asking them to spread the word about your fundraiser. Personalized asks are more effective, so try tailoring your message to each person.
- Partner with local businesses: Ask local businesses to donate a percentage of sales or offer discounts to customers donating to your fundraiser. This is a win-win for both you and the business.
- Host a community event: Host a low-cost event, such as a bake sale or car wash, and donate the proceeds to your fundraiser.
- Apply for grants: There are many grants available for nonprofit organizations and community groups. Research grant opportunities and apply for those that are a good fit for your cause.
- P2P Crowdfunding: Peer to Peer Crowdfunding is a popular and effective way to raise funds with no upfront costs. Set up your campaign on a platform and share it with your network and on social media.
- Host a virtual fundraiser: Host a virtual event, such as a trivia night or auction, and collect donations online.
These low-cost fundraising strategies let you raise funds for your cause without breaking the bank.
Remember to be creative and resourceful, and always keep your supporters in mind!
Fundraising Ideas
When it comes to fundraising, there are countless ideas and approaches to choose from.
Whether you’re looking to host an event or launch an online fundraiser, there’s no shortage of creative ways to raise funds for your cause.
In this section, we’ll explore some of the top fundraising ideas.
Additionally, we’ll give you practical advice on how to choose the most profitable and easiest fundraiser.
If you’re looking to raise funds for your cause, this section provides plenty of inspiration!
Best Fundraising Ideas
When it comes to fundraising, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
The best fundraising ideas are those tailored to your cause, audience, and resources. Additionally, they should align with your goals and values.
Some of the best fundraising ideas are those that leverage the power of community. The key is choosing an approach that resonates with your supporters and inspires them to get involved.
Exploring different fundraising ideas helps you find an approach that works best so you can achieve your fundraising goals.
Some of our favorite fundraising ideas include:
What Is The Most Profitable Fundraiser?
The most profitable fundraiser is completely dependent on your own unique cause and team.
However, keep in mind that you should select a cause with broad appeal.
According to statistics from Qgiv, 18% of Americans say supporting a youth or family is cause is important to them.
The site also reports that Americans’ next most important causes are related to:
- Animals (12%)
- Medical Research (12%)
- Education (11%)
- Disaster Relief (7%)
- Human Rights (7%)
- Environment (6%)
- Global Health (3%)
If your fundraiser is related to one of the topics below, you’ll have a better chance at being profitable.
Additionally, you want to pick a fundraiser that allows your committee to showcase their strengths.
For example, while some members of your team may have years of fundraising experience but no tech skills, others may be experienced digital marketers with no idea how to organize an event.
Remember, collaboration is key to your success. Let people help by doing what they’re good at.
If you’ve got experienced event coordinators on your team, encourage their input when organizing an event-based fundraiser.
Likewise, if you’ve got people with lots of fundraising experience on your team, ask for their advice as to what they’ve noticed tends to work well.
By working with your team, there’s no doubt you can run the most profitable fundraiser your organization has even done!
What Is The Easiest Fundraiser?
Like determining what is the most profitable fundraiser, the easiest fundraiser for you will depend on your skillset.
For example, if you have experience in event planning, organizing an event-based fundraiser is probably the best way to go.
On the other hand, if you’re tech-savvy or a digital marketing expert, the easiest fundraiser will likely be a Peer to Peer Crowdfunding campaign.
The most important thing to remember is to lean into your strengths.
That’s why it’s a good idea to assemble a fundraising committee consisting of people with different backgrounds.
Take some time to think about your resources and pick the best fundraiser for your particular cause!
Ready To Start A Fundraiser?
Starting a fundraiser can be a rewarding experience allowing you to make a positive impact on the world.
Whether you’re passionate about a particular cause or looking to build community, fundraising provides a platform to achieve a meaningful difference.
By exploring different fundraising ideas and finding the approach that works best for you, you can reach your fundraising goals.
So, if you’re considering starting a fundraiser, start exploring your options, define your goals, and rally your community behind your cause.
With dedication, hard work, and a clear vision, you can make a real difference in the world through fundraising.
If you’re ready to run your own fundraiser, fill out this form and we’ll help you get started!
