An IHOP fundraiser can be a great way raise money for a good cause while enjoying a classic pancake breakfast. Between dine-to-donate nights, gift card sales, and cashback programs, this restaurant fundraising idea offers a few different ways to turn short stacks into fundraising dollars.
Here’s how IHOP fundraisers work, who can participate, and how to get started.
What Is an IHOP Fundraiser?
An IHOP fundraiser is a partnership with the restaurant where a portion of sales or gift card purchases supports your cause. The main options include:
- Dine to Donate events (select locations only)
- Gift card fundraising through RaiseRight
- Cashback fundraising with FlipGive
Who Can Start an IHOP Fundraiser?
Eligibility depends on the fundraising method:
- Dine to Donate: Requirements vary by location. Some (like Sharp Holdings) require nonprofits to provide a tax ID, while others might accept schools, churches, or community groups.
- RaiseRight gift cards: Available to schools, churches, sports teams, booster clubs, PTO/PTAs, bands, and other nonprofits.
- FlipGive cashback: Primarily for sports teams, but schools, churches, nonprofits, and even families can participate.
How Does an IHOP Fundraiser Work?
Dine to Donate
Host an event at a local IHOP and invite supporters to dine in. A percentage of sales—often around 20%—is donated to your cause.
- Supporters may need to show a flyer or use a promo code
- Participation and donation rates vary by location
- Available on a franchise-by-franchise basis
RaiseRight Gift Cards
Supporters buy IHOP gift cards through RaiseRight using your group’s unique code.
- Earnings: Up to 8% per card
- Flexibility: Cards from hundreds of other retailers are also available
- Setup: Register with RaiseRight, share your code, and track sales via the dashboard
FlipGive Cashback
FlipGive allows supporters to earn cashback on everyday purchases, including IHOP.
- Earnings: Up to 5% back at IHOP
- Added benefit: Cashback from major retailers like Walmart, Nike, and Apple
- Good fit: Teams and groups whose supporters already shop regularly online
How To Start an IHOP Fundraiser
- Dine to Donate: Use GroupRaise to find participating IHOPs or contact your local restaurant directly
- RaiseRight gift cards: Enroll your group on the RaiseRight site
- FlipGive cashback: Create a team on FlipGive and invite supporters to join
For groups looking to raise larger amounts, fill out this form and we’ll connect you with partners offering high-return fundraisers.
Does IHOP Accept Donation Requests?
IHOP does not accept donation requests at the corporate level. Instead, local franchise owners decide whether to provide sponsorships or donations.
At the national level, IHOP supports Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, raising over $29 million through its National Pancake Day campaign.
Is IHOP Fundraising Right for You?
IHOP fundraising can be a sweet and simple option, especially for schools, churches, and sports teams with strong local support. It’s a good fit if:
- You’re located near a franchise that participates in dine-to-donate nights
- You want flexible, low-effort options through RaiseRight or FlipGive
- Your supporters are already fans of IHOP’s iconic breakfast menu
That said, IHOP fundraisers usually generate modest returns. If your group has bigger goals, consider pairing IHOP with other fundraisers for maximum impact.
