Fundraising is an important aspect of any nonprofit organization, but sometimes it can be hard to come up with creative fundraising ideas. Too often, nonprofits use the same fundraising ideas over and over again, without injecting any new ideas or excitement into their search for donations. Creative fundraising can rejuvenate donors and bring new ones into the fold with new and innovative fundraising ideas.
Keep in mind both your organization and the group that you are targeting for your fundraising. In some cases, these groups will be similar in demographics, making fundraising easier. In others, you’ll be working with diverse groups. For example, you may be fundraising for a children’s sports team that wants to sell something to adults. In this case, you want something adults will be interested in but that children (or their parents) can provide. Small towns will also require different tactics than large, urban areas.
Assess the talents and resources that exist in your group. Many times organizations fall back on existing ideas rather than coming up with creative fundraising that draws on what their members are good at. For example, you may have a number of business owners in your organization. Consider hosting an auction or have a themed event with prizes from these companies.
Ask around to see what other organizations have done. Online resources are a great place to search as well and you may find similar organizations to yours that have events that worked for them. Don’t be afraid to modify an idea to make it fit with your group or area. Something that sold well in another area may not have the same appeal in yours. Brainstorm with group members, kids, and friends about ideas.
Think about what people need or want in your area or group. More people will participate if they find something useful for them about the event, service, or item. For example, if you have a lot of young families in your town, think about events like fairs, festivals, and carnivals that have many activities for kids. Parents will show up because it offers them something fun to do with their families and because it’ll keep the kids entertained for a few hours.
Look for trends in entertainment, fashion, and other areas to find creative fundraisers. If an activity is catching on, host an event that is centered on it. Make and sell items that people want. Creative fundraisers that are trendy and fun will get you more support and donations.
Creative fundraising doesn’t have to be hard, but you will need to put some thought into it. Creative fundraisers are those that offer something different or new to participants. They don’t have to be costly or detailed. Creative fundraisers should be fun and unique.