Are you in search of a non-traditional fundraising idea? Take a look at these 50 creative, effective fundraising ideas that go beyond the basic bake sale and will help you take your organization to the next level.
Free Fundraising Ideas
- Text-2-Give - Use text-giving software to allow supporters to text donations straight from their phones. This is great for large gatherings like sports games or performances where you can get the word out to a large number of people at once, and they can easily and quickly give.
- Pet Picture Day - Ask a local photographer to donate their time to photograph local pets. Charge supporters a small fee for their pet's photo session and allow the photographer to hand out business cards promoting their services.
- Coach Punishment - Remember the good ol' dunk tank? Think of ways to tease your favorite coach in exchange for donations. Perhaps they will be willing to get a whipped cream pie in the face or their hair died a funny color in exchange for a good cause.
- Santa's Letters - Collect a group of volunteers who will write back to every single letter to Santa dropped off in a specific mailbox that you create. Tell that this is for a good cause and ask them to donate in exchange for their return letter from Santa.
- Will Work for Donations - Recruit volunteers who will donate their time to help in some way. From mowing lawns to dog walking, gather volunteers who will offer their services to donate for a good cause. Then, allow people to bid on their favorites — the highest bid wins the service!
- Support Your Classroom - For schools, have teachers set up a "support my classroom" fundraiser online where they share details of what they need and why. This has been shown to be much more effective than simply asking families for donations. Genius Tip: You can create a class wish list sign up with slots for paid donations and other needed supplies.
- Spare Change Drive - An easy idea with little to no prep or maintenance. Simply put out a large container and ask for spare change. Make sure the container shares the reasons for the collection and increase awareness by spreading the word.
