Fundraising Ideas for Nonprofit Organizations

1. Organize a major one-time event



Benefit dinners often work well as one-time fundraising events, and they can take many forms—from black-tie gala to backyard barbecue.


• Reach out to volunteers who’ve given time to your organization in the past. Offer them an opportunity to attend your fundraising event as honored guests if they sell a certain number of tickets.
• Set the price of admission so it covers the cost of dinner, entertainment, and other expenses in addition to the amount you hope to raise. Ask guests to make donations at or above that amount.

2. Organize a “week without” challenge



Ask supporters to give up an everyday luxury for one week—and to donate the money they would normally spend on it to your fundraiser.

• Suggest they give up things like restaurant meals, fancy coffees, or services such as hairdressing or spa treatments.
• Engage members of your community in a way that puts compassion and sacrifice at the forefront of their giving experience.
• Inspire them to think about your fundraiser each time they consider their routine, keeping your cause on their mind for an extended time.


3. Hold a series of smaller fundraising events

Organizing small activities each day can build momentum and put people into a mindset of regular giving.

• Consider hosting a bake sale on Monday, a white elephant sale on Tuesday, a car wash on Wednesday, and so on, until you reach the major concluding event (perhaps a benefit dinner or family carnival).
• Help build momentum by making sure people see and hear about your fundraiser over the course of the week. It works especially well for workplaces, schools, and anywhere else events can happen on the same property, making logistics far easier.

4. Try a charity sale

Fundraising events can be incredibly successful, but don’t forget the option of a straightforward fundraising sale. Whether you’re selling books, calendars, donated items, or art, a charity sale can be a perfect addition to your online crowdfunding efforts.

• Smaller-scale sales are less-stressful alternatives for nonprofits that don’t have a huge staff prepared to take on the planning of a major fundraising gala.
• Hosting sales can also be a steady form of fundraising that lasts as long as necessary.
• Brainstorm items that might appeal to your donor base, then reach out to businesses in the area that might be willing to offer donated goods or services.

5. Solicit pledges or other forms of planned giving



Ask people for a commitment to give more than once—you’re likely to receive more than you would with a one-time donation. Planned giving is crucial for any nonprofit seeking a stable revenue stream and a secure financial future. It also orients donors (and your organization’s fundraising team) toward long-term sustainability.

6. Host a fundraising drive online or on local radio



Find out if a local radio station is willing to read a PSA about your fundraiser, and/or use the internet to spread the word.

• When you receive a lot of donations in a short time, your fundraiser is more likely to go viral.
• If possible, ask supporters to make their donations in a span of a few hours. Traffic they generate by donating together creates a level of social proof that encourages others to give.
• Live tweets and updates, a countdown, and a custom hashtag can also increase your reach.