Are you looking for fundraising ideas for your non-profit? We’ve got you covered. This article lists 155 fundraising ideas suitable for any organization or budget.
Popular Fundraising Ideas
Below are five popular fundraising ideas.
1- Hold a Silent Auction with Charity Safaris
How to do it: Let the community know you’re giving away a once-in-a-lifetime hunting adventure hosted by Charity Safaris in a silent auction. People can silently bid on the prize over a set amount of time. The highest bidder wins the prize.
Why do it? As one of the leading fundraising sites in the US, Charity Safaris provides fully funded hunting packages to eligible organizations. This means your non-profit keeps all the money raised during your silent auction. Trip destinations include Argentina, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Charity Safaris hunting packages can raise $4,500 in silent auctions. Inquire about their hunting trips on their website today.
2- 5K Walk or Run
How to do it: Pick a location, map out a course, and challenge the community to a 5k run or walk. Then, set up tents with refreshments and information about your organization near the finish line.
Why do it? Perfect for fall or spring, this is a fundraising idea that the whole family will enjoy. They’re easy to plan, require minimal overhead, and help the community reach its health goals.
3- Happy Hour
How to do it: Coordinate with a local bar or restaurant to host a happy hour. Have raffle gift baskets available to increase the event’s fundraising potential.
Why do it? Community members will enjoy connecting with friends and unwinding after a long week while supporting your organization.
4- Trivia Night
How to do it: Pick a trivia theme that aligns with your organization’s mission! Then, get permission from a local restaurant or bar to host a trivia night fundraiser. Finally, sell tickets online for entry and refreshment vouchers.
Why do it? Supporters will be excited to show off their trivia knowledge while connecting with friends.
5- Golf Tournament
How to do it: Read our step-by-step guide for hosting the perfect charity golf tournament fundraising event.
Why do it? Golf tournaments are one of those fundraising ideas that have the potential to bring in substantial funds and become a tradition for attendees.
Easy Fundraising Ideas
6- Talent Show
How to do it: Coordinate with a local school to host a talent show. You can sell tickets for the event as well as refreshments and merchandise.
Why do it? While a talent show requires planning, it is less expensive than you might think. Many schools already have the equipment needed for a successful talent show. In addition, students will love the opportunities to showcase their talents for a good cause.
7- Parent’s Night Out
How to do it: For a donation (and with the school’s permission), offer babysitting services at the school for one evening so parents can have a night out. In addition, you can ask a local restaurant to provide a discount for parents participating in the event.
Why do it? Of all fundraising ideas, this is one that parents will seriously appreciate. For a donation, they have the opportunity to enjoy a night out.
8- Tutor-a-thon
How to do it: With the school’s permission, host a Tutor-a-thon weekend there. Parents can donate to have their children receive a 30-minute tutoring session. This is an excellent option for non-profits focused on education, but you can also ask teachers or upperclassmen to volunteer as tutors.
Why do it? This event is practical and can raise serious revenue. In addition, parents will love the opportunity to get valuable tutoring lessons for their children. So, to increase your revenue, host your Tutor-a-thon around the SATs.
9- Student’s Day Off Challenge
How to do it: Get permission from a local school to organize a raffle contest in which students receive raffle tickets to sell. Whoever raises the most money via raffle ticket sales gets a day off from school, and your non-profit keeps the proceeds.
Why do it? Students will be motivated to sell raffle tickets to get the day off. Moreover, it can help your non-profit reach a wider audience.
10- School Dance
How to do it: Get permission from a local school to host a school dance. You can sell tickets for the Dance and ask for volunteers to help you run the event.
Why do it? School dances require much planning, but the payoff is worth it. Students will love dancing the night away with their friends while supporting a good cause.
11- Teachers vs. Parents Night
How to do it: Get permission from a local school to organize teachers vs. parents basketball or volleyball games. You can charge teachers and parents for entry into the competition and sell spectator tickets for the event.
Why do it? Students will love watching their parents and teachers duel on the court.
12- Teachers vs. Students Night
How to do it: Get permission from a local school to organize teachers vs. students’ basketball or volleyball games. You can charge teachers and students who want to form a team. You can also sell spectator tickets and snacks for the event.
Why do it? Students will love competing with their teachers while supporting a good cause.
13- Underclassmen vs. Upperclassmen
How to do it: Get permission from a local school to hold a fundraising event. Ask homeroom teachers to collect donations every morning for a while. Then, the class that raises the most money will have a pizza party.
Why do it? Students love some friendly competitions, especially when it’s with another grade. So, they will be eager to work together to win a pizza prize.
14- Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?
How to do it: Coordinate with an elementary or middle school to host an “Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?” night for parents. You can charge parents a small fee to enter the event. You can also sell tickets for admission as well as refreshments.
Why do it? Parents will love the chance to show off their smarts, and students will love watching their parents compete in a friendly challenge!
Best Fundraising Ideas
15- Offer Movers for Hire
How to do it: This one is great for fraternities. Offer to move freshmen into their dorms for a donation. Then, you can promote your services online or shop in the drop-off parking lot.
Why do it: Helpful hands are something every parent will appreciate on move-in day. Plus, it allows you to talk to people about your organization.
16- Have a Date Auction
How to do it: This is great for sororities, fraternities, and sports teams. The highest bidder gets to take a Greek life or sports team member on a date. The organization keeps the proceeds.
Why do it? This can be a fun way for sororities, fraternities, and sports teams to raise money while connecting with their community.
17- Dance-a-Thon
How to do it: Coordinate with a local university to host a Dance-a-Thon. Sell tickets for the event and ask participants to collect pledges. You may be responsible for finding vendors for the event.
Why do it? Dance-a-Thons require a lot of planning, but the payoff is worth it. It can raise serious revenue while creating a memorable experience for everyone.
Good Fundraiser Ideas
18- Earth Day Cleanup
How to do it: Organize an Earth Day cleanup at your local park or beach and have volunteers collect pledges to increase revenue.
Why do it? People looking for ways to celebrate Earth Day will love this event. In addition, it is an especially fitting fundraising idea for an environment-focused organization.
19- Easter Egg Hunt
How to do it: Organize an easter egg hunt at a local park, school, or church. Sell tickets for entry and offer a small prize to whoever collects the most eggs. You can also auction off raffle baskets for increased revenue.
Why do it? It saves people from setting up their hunt and allows them to support a good cause. All you need are eggs and candy.
20- Easter Egg Decorating Contest
How to do it: Have participants compete to decorate easter eggs for a small prize. Then, sell tickets for entry and auction off raffle baskets for increased revenue.
Why do it? Kids and adults alike will love the opportunity to get creative while supporting your organization. An Easter theme makes for great fundraiser ideas.
21- Virtual Easter Egg Decorating Contest
How to do it: For donations, have participants post photos of their decorated eggs on social media and tag your organization. Then, the winners can be announced on your page.
22- Offer Breakfast in Bed
How to do it: Set up a system where people can order a homemade breakfast to be delivered to their door. You can charge for both the meal and delivery fees.
Why do it? Perfect for Mother’s or Father’s Day, this fundraiser allows people to show appreciation for their loved ones without lifting a finger.
23- Haunted House
How to do it: Rent a local space to create a spooky haunted house walkthrough. You can ask for Halloween decoration donations to offset costs.
Why do it: Perfect for Halloween, this is an easy way to bring the community together and raise some serious revenue.
24- Zombie Chase
How to do it: Plan a 5k race but ask volunteers to dress up as zombies to spook participants at every corner. Have blood punch (Gatorade) available for purchase after the race.
Why do it? 5ks are already popular fundraisers; this spooky twist will draw in even more numbers. Who wants to dress up like a Zombie?
25- Trunk or Treat
How to do it: Borrow parking lot space from your local high school to trunk or treat. You can charge a small entry fee to cars giving out candy and trick-or-treaters. Make sure your organization has its trunk!
Why do it? What’s Halloween without trick or treating? Of all fundraising ideas, this can generate a lot of revenue with little effort on your part.
26- Have Volunteers Trick or Donate
How to do it: Have volunteers go door to door saying: “Trick or Donate!” Have a brochure about your organization on hand for suspicious neighbors.
Why do it? While potentially embarrassing, this is an effective way to introduce the community to your organization and raise funds.
27- Horror Movie Marathon
How to do it: Rent a space from your local YMCA or community center to watch a horror movie marathon. You can sell entry tickets as well as refreshments.
Why do it? Perfect for Halloween, this is an easy way to unite the community while raising money for your cause, and Halloween themes make great fundraiser ideas.
28- Hold a Costume Competition
How to do it: Rent a space from your local YMCA or community center to hold a costume competition. You can divide participants by age and gift winners with a small prize.
Why do it? Kids and parents will love dressing up for a good cause.
29- Hold a Virtual Costume Competition
How to do it: Have contestants send you photos of their Halloween costumes for the chance to win a small prize. Share the winners on your social media pages. Contestants must donate to be considered.
30- Wreath Making Event
How to do it: Rent a local space and have someone teach participants how to make a wreath. You can sell tickets online for entry.
Why do it? This can allow community members to create beautiful Christmas decor for their homes while supporting your organization.
31- Virtual Wreath-Making Event
How to do it: Hold a Zoom meeting and have someone teach participants to make a wreath. You can give participants the Zoom link in exchange for a donation.
32- Offer Pictures with Santa
How to do it: Rent a local space and sell tickets to see Santa. You can also have refreshments, raffle baskets, and holiday-themed merchandise available for purchase.
Why do it? Almost every family with young children has “pictures with Santa” on their holiday to-do list.
33- Offer Holiday Gift Wrapping
How to do it: Offer to wrap holiday gifts for the community for a donation. Have people drop off their gifts and pick them up later that day.
Why do it: This is one that moms will jump on among the fundraising ideas.
34- Go Christmas Caroling
How to do it: Have volunteers Christmas Carol for donations. Have brochures about your organization ready for the neighborhood scrooges.
Why do it? While potentially embarrassing, this has the potential to raise a lot of money while getting people in the holiday spirit. Holiday themes are great for fundraiser ideas.
35- Have an Advent Calendar Countdown
How to do it: Throw an advent calendar countdown campaign by asking for $1 donations on the first, $10 contributions on the tenth, and so on.
Why do it? This campaign raises your funds and the community’s holiday spirit.
36- Ask the Community to Rent an Elf
How to do it: Let your community rent “elves” from you for a donation. These elves can set up Christmas decorations and lights or shovel snow.
Why do it? Of all the fundraiser ideas on this list, these benefit older adults. It allows you to help others while helping your organization.
37- Host an Ice Skating Event
How to do it: Get permission from your local skate rink to attend a fundraising event. You can sell tickets for entry and refreshments like hot chocolate at the event.
Why do it? This will allow community members to get out and be active during winter.
38- Hold a Holiday Concert
How to do it: Coordinate with a local band and venue to host a holiday concert. Sell tickets for entry and drinks.
Why do it? Attendees get to socialize while listening to their favorite Christmas tunes.
39- Soup Baking Contest
How to do it: Have contestants make their favorite soups. Judges will do a taste test, and the winner will be given a prize.
Why do it? Cooking lovers will jump at the opportunity to make comfort food for a good cause.
40- Cookie Baking Contest
How to do it: Have contestants make their favorite cookie recipe. Judges will do a taste test, and the winner will be given a prize.
Why do it? Cookie baking is a tradition for many families. This allows them to continue that tradition while supporting your organization. Cooking themes make great fundraiser ideas.
41- Turkey Trot
How to do it: Hold a 5k race on Thanksgiving but have participants dress as a turkey.
Why do it? Racers can gobble up their competition before gobbling up their Thanksgiving dinner.
42- Hold a Gratitude Giving Day
How to do it: Throw a gratitude-giving campaign where people donate to your organization and post one thing they’re grateful for.
Why do it? It’s a simple way to get people in the giving spirit.
43- Hold a Thanksgiving Food Drive
How to do it: Collect cans and nonperishable foods to give to shelters or needy families. Have a donation box for your organization at the drop-off location.
Why do it? Food drives allow you to serve others while increasing funds for your organization.
Easy Fundraiser Ideas
44- Yoga Class
How to do it: Ask a licensed instructor to teach a class for your organization at a local park or studio. You can also sell refreshments and merchandise after the course.
Why do it? Yoga is a popular workout, especially among women. Community members will love to take a yoga class while supporting your cause.
45- Community Hike
How to do it: Pick a location for your Hike and spread the word on social media. Have hikers who sign up collect pledges for your cause.
Why do it? Perfect for environment-focused non-profits, a hike is a simple way to raise money and a great way to get the community outdoors.
46- Hold a 10,000-Step Challenge
How to do it: Set up an online page for your 10,000-step challenge. Participants can collect pledge donations to increase motivation (and funds for your organization).
Why do it? It helps people reach a health goal while helping your organization. Health-related themes make great fundraiser ideas.
47- Adult Field Day
How to do it: Coordinate with a local park to set up an adult field day.
Why do it? This is one of those fundraiser ideas that attract adults and kids alike. Parents will love being kids for the day, while children will love cheering on their parents. It doesn’t cost much to set up an obstacle course or tug-of-war.
48- Plan a Polar Plunge
How to do it: Pick a date and location and spread the word on social media. Plungers can donate to participate. You can also sell hot chocolate and warm soup after the plunge.
Why do it? Great for seaside organizations, a polar plunge can motivate donors to step out of their comfort zone and dive right into supporting a great cause.
49- Corn Hole Tournament
How to do it:
- Coordinate with volunteers to collect enough cornhole boards for a tournament.
- Spread the word on social media and request that participants donate to form a team.
- Have beer, soda, and other refreshments available for purchase.
Why do it? Perfect for summer, a corn hole tournament allows the community to relax and play a fun tailgating game while contributing to a meaningful cause.
50- Wiffle Ball Tournament
How to do it:
- Set up an online page with all your wiffle ball tournament details.
- Require that interested teams donate to participate and post your fundraising goals so that people not participating can donate.
- Have refreshments for purchase and raffle baskets to auction off available.
Why do it? While this may require much planning, the payout is worth it. A whiffle ball tournament has the potential to bring in some serious competition, fun, and revenue. Sports-related themes make for great fundraiser ideas.
51- Ping Pong Tournament
How to do it:
- Set up an online page with all your ping pong tournament details.
- Require that interested teams donate to participate and post your fundraising goals so that people not participating can donate.
- Have refreshments for purchase and raffle baskets to auction off available.
Why do it? Like a whiffle ball tournament, this has the potential to be memorable for attendees and profitable for your organization.
52- Hold a Volleyball Tournament
How to do it:
- Coordinate with a local school to rent their volleyball nets and spread the word online.
- Require that interested teams donate to participate and post your fundraising goals so that people not participating can donate.
- Have refreshments for purchase and raffle baskets to auction off available.
Why do it? While it requires some planning, a volleyball tournament is a fun way for the community to compete while raising money for your organization. Sports-related themes make for great fundraiser ideas.
53- Bowl-A-Thon
How to do it: Coordinate with your local bowling alley to host a bowl-a-thon. Require that interested teams donate to enter and post your fundraising goals online so people not attending can still contribute.
Why do it? Bowling is something the whole family can enjoy. People will jump at the opportunity to have a fun family night out for a good cause.
54- Bike-A-Thon
How to do it: Set up a page online challenging people to bike for a certain amount of time. Participants can collect pledges to increase motivation. You can post your fundraising goals so people can donate directly to your cause.
Why do it? It helps people reach a health goal while raising money for your organization.
55- Track and Field Event
How to do it: Get permission from a local school to borrow its track for the day. Require that interested racers donate to participate and allow spectators to pledge for racers. You can also sell tickets to spectators on the day of the event.
Why does it? Whether a mile or 400-meter dash, runners will be eager to show off their speed for a great cause.
Unique Fundraising Ideas
56- Host an Art Class
How to do it: Coordinate with a local art instructor to host an art class for your non-profit. Require that interested parties donate to participate.
Why do it? Art classes are a fitting way for art-focused organizations to unite the community and raise money for their cause.
57- Pool Party
How to do it: Coordinate with a local swim club to host a pool party. Selling entry tickets as well as refreshment vouchers. You can increase revenue with seasonal raffle baskets.
Why do it? Who doesn’t love a pool party? This family-friendly event is perfect for a summer fundraiser idea.
58- Hold a Farmer’s Market
How to do it: Ask a local farmer’s market if you can participate in their next event. Set up a table for your organization with a donation box and merchandise available for purchase.
Why do it: Farmer’s markets already draw in a big crowd. Setting up a table can get your name out there and attract new supporters.
59- Hold A Concert
How to do it: Coordinate with a local band to hold a concert for your organization. Sell tickets for entry as well as drink vouchers. You can also post your fundraising goals online so people who can’t attend the event can still donate.
Why do it? Live music is a popular way to bring people together. It allows the community to listen to a local band while supporting a good cause.
60- Bingo Night
How to do it: Ask a local bar if you can host a bingo night. People must donate to sign up and have extra boards ready for last-minute entries.
Why do it? Having a bar bingo night does the recruitment work for you, as people will already be there. It’s a simple and fun way to raise money.
61- Football Tailgate
How to do it: Big football game coming up? Set up a page online sharing the details of your tailgate. Sell entry tickets and refreshment vouchers, and have music and games set up for entertainment.
Why do it: Perfect for fall, football fans already planning to attend the game can pop in for some quick support. It’s a great way to raise your attendance rates and money.
62- Have an Outdoor Movie Night
How to do it: Ask a local drive-in theater if you can host an outdoor movie night. Spread the word online and set your fundraising goal so non-attendees can still donate. You can also sell refreshments and customized blankets at the event.
Why do it? People will love this old-school fundraiser event for a date or a chill night out with friends.
63- Have a Poker Night
How to do it: Coordinate with a local restaurant or bar to host a poker night. Require that people donate to play and sell refreshment vouchers for the event. Players can bet however they choose, but the proceeds go to your organization.
Why do it? Poker is well-loved by many. Among the list of fundraiser ideas, this has the potential to bring in the most revenue. People will be eager to show off their skills while raising money for your cause. Poker and casino-related themes are great fundraiser ideas.
64- Have a Movie Marathon
How to do it: Get permission from your local theater to sponsor a movie marathon night. Sell tickets for entry as well as vouchers for refreshments.
Why do it? Who doesn’t love a movie night? This event can be made to suit any organization and audience.
65- Night at The Museum
How to do it: Get permission from a local museum to sponsor a night at the museum. Sell tickets for entry as well as vouchers for refreshments.
Why do it? A night at the museum is something people of all ages can enjoy.
66- Night at The Zoo
How to do it: Get permission from your local zoo to sponsor a night at the zoo. Sell tickets for entry as well as vouchers for refreshments.
Why do it? Great for animal-based organizations, a night at the zoo is something that kids and adults alike will look forward to.
67- Have a Murder Mystery Party
How to do it:
- Create a suspenseful storyline.
- Pick and decorate a venue to host your murder mystery party.
- Sell tickets for entry and vouchers for refreshments.
Why do it? This may be one of the most difficult to pull off of all our fundraiser ideas. However, if done well, it has the potential to be a memorable night for guests and a profitable night for you.
68- Hold a Scavenger Hunt
How to do it: First, pick a theme for your scavenger hunt. Then, begin writing instructions to guide people throughout the search. Sell tickets online to participants and offer refreshments at the event. Make sure to have a small prize for the winners!
Why do it? A scavenger hunt is an activity that the whole family can enjoy. They can also be a great way to teach the community about your organization. Scavenger hunts are always great fundraiser ideas.
69- Have a Karaoke Night
How to do it: Get permission from a local bar to host a karaoke night. People must donate to sign up and sell refreshment vouchers at the event.
Why do it? Having a bar karaoke night does the recruitment work for you, as people will already be there. It’s a simple and fun way to raise money.
70- Have a Guest Speaker at Your Event
How to do it: Ask a local expert in the field of your choice to speak at your event. Promote your guest speaker via social media to bring in a broader audience.
Why do it? The chance to listen to an expert may increase numbers at your event.
71- Offer to Wash Dogs
How to do it: Spread the word that your organization is bathing furry friends for a donation. Dog owners can pop in and enjoy some refreshments while their pup gets cleaned up.
Why do it? A dog wash can raise a lot of money for the right organization. If your non-profit is animal-focused, it’s a great way to reach a wider audience and earn credibility. Plus, dog owners will be happy to cross “give the dog a bath” off their to-do list. Dog-related themes are profitable fundraising ideas.
72- Pancake Breakfast
How to do it: Spread the word that your organization is making pancakes in exchange for donations. Have raffle baskets at the event to increase your profit.
Why do it? Pancake breakfasts are something the whole community can enjoy. Plus, they’re inexpensive and easy to make. The Pancake Breakfast is one of the oldest and profitable fundraising ideas.
73- Partner with a Chain Restaurant
How to do it: Ask a local chain restaurant to partner up one evening for a fundraiser. Share about your fundraiser night online to bring in more dinner guests.
Why do it? Many restaurant franchises will host fundraising nights. Your non-profit gets to keep a percentage of the profit on your fundraising night.
74- Crafts Fair
How to do it:
- Connect with local artists to plan and host a crafts fair.
- Charge an entry fee and sell refreshments on the day of the event.
- Share the news online to attract attendees.
Why do it? This is the perfect fundraiser for art-loving towns.
75- Offer Face Painting
How to do it: Tell the community that your organization offers face painting in exchange for donations. Set up a booth at a local park or school and sell refreshments for parents.
Why do it: Great for non-profits focused on the arts or education, this fundraiser brings color and energy into a community. Different types of face painting are great fundraiser ideas.
76- Jeans Day
How to do it: Coordinate with local businesses to host a jeans day. Employees can donate to wear jeans on the day of your fundraiser.
Why do it? Jeans Day is one of our fundraiser ideas list’s quickest and easiest options. Depending on the size of the business, it has the potential to raise a lot of money.
77- Have a Food Drive
How to do it: Tell the community you are collecting food items for a food drive. Designate a timeline and drop-off location.
Why do it: Great for food-based non-profits, this fundraiser gives the community a practical way to contribute.
78- Start a March Madness Bracket
How to do it: Tell the community you are doing a March Madness bracket. Require that people donate to enter.
Why do it? March Madness is something many people participate in every year. This allows people to continue their traditions while supporting a good cause.
79- Have a Mobile Phone Drive
How to do it: Share on social media that your non-profit collects old phones, including the drop-off location.
Why do it? Certain companies will buy old mobile phones to be refurbished or used for parts. A phone drive has the potential to raise serious money for sustainability-focused organizations. Cell phone collections can be great fundraising ideas.
80- Beach or Park Clean Up
How to do it: Organize a cleanup at your local park or beach and have volunteers collect pledges to increase revenue.
Why do it: Great for environment-focused organizations, cleanups are a great way to get the community outside, work towards a common cause, and make for great fundraiser ideas.
81- Game Tournament
How to do it: Get permission from a local arcade to host a game tournament. Sell tickets for entry and refreshments.
Why do it? This old-school fundraiser is perfect for a date or a family night out.
82- Plan a Cultural Theme Day
How to do it: Plan an event where attendees can learn about different cultures and try their local cuisines. Sell entry tickets and have culture-themed raffle baskets.
Why do it? This fundraiser is the perfect opportunity to unite a diverse community while raising money for your organization.
83- Tree Planting Day
How to do it: With permission from your township, host a tree planting day where attendees can help plant new seeds in a local park. Attendees can donate in exchange for seeds.
Why do it: Great for Earth Day or Arbor Day, this fundraiser supports the community and your non-profit. Planting trees great fundraiser ideas and awesome for the environment.
84- Create a Hugging Booth
How to do it: Set up a booth where supporters can donate to receive a hug.
Why do it? This simple spin on the classic kissing booth can unite the community while raising money for your cause.
85- Partner with a Local Restaurant
How to do it: Set up a partnership with a local restaurant in which a percentage of all proceeds that evening goes to your non-profit. Promote this partnership online to bring in more dinner guests.
Why do it? People love supporting local businesses. The opportunity to do that while supporting a local cause will bring in large numbers.
86- Challenge People to a Give It Up Week
How to do it: Set up an online page challenging people to a no-spend week. When supporters are urged to spend, ask them to donate to your cause instead.
Why do it? Help people challenge their vices while raising money for your cause.
87- Challenge People to a Last Hour’s Pay Challenge
How to do it: Set up an online page challenging people to donate their last hour’s pay to your organization. Publicly thank each donor to inspire others to contribute.
Why do it? This effective fundraising strategy challenges people to step up and make a difference.
88- Bag Groceries for Donations
How to do it: Get permission from a local grocery store to bag groceries for donations.
Why do it? This direct fundraising strategy is guaranteed to reach a broad audience, especially on busy weekends.
89- Outside Tea Party in the Park
How to do it: Gather picnic blankets and teacups for a tea party in the park. Ask that supporters donate for a cup of tea and have other refreshments available for purchase.
Why do it? Perfect for spring, supporters will love soaking up the sun while sipping on a soothing beverage.
90- Offer to Pet Sit for The Day
How to do it: Spread the word that your organization is watching furry friends for a donation.
Why do it? A pet-sitting service can raise a lot of money for the right organization. If your non-profit is animal-focused, it’s a great way to reach a wider audience and earn credibility.
91- Dine with A Dog
How to do it: Coordinate with a local restaurant to host a “Dine with a Dog” night. Attendees can bring their furry friends to join them for a meal. A percentage of the profits made that night would go to your organization.
Why do it? While dog-friendly restaurants are becoming more common, pet owners will love taking their dogs out for a treat. All dog-related themes are popular fundraiser ideas.
92- Rent A Puppy
How to do it: Tell the town they can rent a puppy for a donation. Supporters can donate to spend a few minutes cuddling and playing with a pup.
Why do it: Great for animal-based non-profits, this is one of those fundraiser ideas guaranteed to attract attendees.
Creative Fundraising Ideas
93- Have an Art Sale
An art sale can support local artists while supporting your organization.
94- Have an Ice Cream Sale
Great for summer, ice cream is a treat that anyone can enjoy.
95- Have a Bake Sale
This tried-and-true fundraising idea is guaranteed to bring in some revenue.
96- Sell Customized Tee Shirts
Whether a standalone fundraiser or an addition to an event, selling customized tee shirts can bring in serious profit.
97- Have A Lemonade Stand
This classic fundraiser is a simple and sweet way to raise money.
98- Hold A Silent Auction
Silent Auctions are an excellent opportunity to make the most of a recently received in-kind donation.
99- Sell Customized Calendars
Whether a standalone fundraiser or an addition to an event, selling customized calendars is an easy way to raise money for your non-profit.
100- Have a Yard Sale
We all have a few things we can get rid of. A yard sale lets your organization members do spring cleaning while raising money.
101- Have a Community Book Sale
A community book sale can unite the community while increasing funds for your non-profit.
102- Hold a Pop-Up Thrift Store
One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. One of the many great fundraiser ideas for environment-focused organizations, a pop-up thrift store promotes sustainability and increases funds for your non-profit.
103- Sell Gift Baskets
Whether a standalone fundraiser or an addition to an event, selling gift baskets is an effective fundraising method.
104- Spa Day Basket
A basket filled with lotions, bath scrubs, slippers, and nail care will likely be a hit among women. Add a gift certificate to a local spa to generate additional revenue.
105- Parent’s Night Out Basket
A basket that includes a gift certificate to a local restaurant and tickets to a show will be a hit among young parents.
106- Vacation Basket
A basket including a beach blanket, toys, sunscreen, and a beach bag will set families up for a fun vacation.
107- Home for The Holidays Basket
A basket filled with hot chocolate mix, cozy blankets, and fuzzy socks will be perfect for
the holiday seasons.
108- Ask Donors to Buy a Brick
Asking donors to purchase a brick in their name can be a lucrative fundraising strategy, depending on the organization.
109- Sell A Cookbook
Selling cookbooks can be a profitable fundraising strategy for the right organization.
110- Sell Pet-Themed Calendar
Great for animal-focused non-profits, selling pet-themed calendars is an easy way to earn additional revenue for your organization.
111- Sell Customized Masks
Selling customized masks is a solid way to raise additional money at your fundraising event.
112- Sell Customized Stickers
Selling customized masks is an excellent way to raise additional money at your fundraising event.
113- Set Up Donation Kiosks at Events
You don’t need to plan your event to fundraise. Setting up a booth and asking for donations at local events is an effective way to raise money for your organization.
Cheap Fundraising Ideas
114- Virtual Comedy Night
How to do it: Create a sign-up online to participate in a comedy show via Zoom. You can require people to donate to perform at the comedy show or receive the event link.
Why do it? A virtual comedy show allows people to try out their stand-up material or be entertained for the night. It also saves your organization from having to secure a venue and equipment.
115- Livestream event
How to do it: Let the community know you’re holding a live-stream event on the topic of your choice. Ask supporters to donate to receive the Zoom link.
Why do it? This versatile fundraising idea allows people to connect with and raise money for your organization.
116- Webinar
How to do it: Let the community know you’re holding a webinar on the topic of your choice. Ask supporters to donate to receive the Zoom link.
Why do it? This versatile fundraising idea allows supporters to contribute to your cause and learn something new.
117- Hold a Virtual 5k Run or Walk
How to do it: Set up a page online challenging people to run or walk 3.1 miles. Instead of meeting at a set location, participants run independently and post their results online. Participants can collect pledges to increase motivation. You can post your fundraising goals so people can donate directly to your cause.
Why do it? A virtual 5k provides the same benefits as a regular 5k but requires less work.
118- Virtual Happy Hour
How to do it: Let the community know you’re hosting a virtual happy hour. Ask supporters to donate to receive the Zoom link.
Why do it? A virtual happy hour lets supporters contribute to your cause and connect with friends without going out.
119- Virtual Gala
How to do it: Tell the community you’re hosting a virtual gala via a live stream. Ask interested attendees to donate to receive the event link.
Why do it? This can generate as much revenue as a regular gala while cutting venue and catering costs.
120- Have a Virtual Talent Show
How to do it: Create a sign-up online to participate in a talent show via Zoom or Skype. You can require people to donate to perform at the talent show or receive the event link.
Why do it? A virtual talent show allows students to show off their skills without leaving home. It also saves your organization from having to secure a venue and equipment.
121- Virtual Trivia Night
How to do it: Pick a trivia theme that aligns with your organization’s mission. Then, create a sign-up online requiring that interested parties donate to participate.
Why do it? A virtual trivia night allows supporters to show off their smarts in friendly competition.
122- Virtual Conference or Workshop
How to do it?
- Host a conference or workshop on Zoom about the theme of your choice.
- Ask local experts to speak at the event.
- Require that interested people donate in exchange for the event link.
Why do it? A virtual workshop creates an educational experience for guests from the comfort of their homes.
123- Have a Virtual Crafts Night
How to do it: Gather people on a Zoom Call to participate in a crafts night. Require that interested parties donate to receive the event link and have some craft ideas ready to share with the group.
Why do it? Who doesn’t love a wine and crafts night? Help people unwind with some relaxing crafting while supporting your organization.
124- Hold a Virtual Cooking Event
How to do it: Ask a local chef to teach a virtual cooking class for your organization. Require that interested attendees donate to receive the event link.
Why do it? Cooking lovers will love to cook a delicious meal and support a great cause from the comfort of their own homes.
125- Plan a Virtual Scavenger Hunt
How to do it: First, pick a theme for your scavenger hunt. Then, begin writing instructions to guide people throughout the hunt. Have people share their answers online. The first person to complete the hunt wins a prize.
Why do it? A scavenger hunt is an activity that the whole family can enjoy. They can also be a great way to teach the community about your organization.
126- Virtual Art Class
How to do it: Ask a local art instructor to teach a virtual art class for your non-profit. Require that interested parties donate to receive the event link.
Why do it? Art classes are a fitting way for art-focused organizations to unite the community and raise money for their cause. A virtual event saves your organization from securing a venue and supplies.
127- Have a Virtual Art Sale
How to do it: Make a site that allows people to browse and order art pieces online. Pick a designated day for supporters to pick up their purchases or offer delivery.
Why do it? Supporters will love to buy beautiful art that supports your organization.
128- Have a Virtual Concert
How to do it: Ask a local band to hold a concert for your organization via Zoom. Concertgoers can donate online to receive the event link.
Why do it? Live music is a popular way to bring people together, even virtually. People can tune into a local band for a relaxing night.
129- Virtual Bingo Night
How to do it:
- Use an app or website online to build a bingo game.
- Spread the word about your event via social media.
- Ask people to donate to receive an event link.
Why do it? Forget going to the bar! Virtual bingo night allows people to engage in friendly competition without going out.
130- Put Together a Charity Fantasy Football League
How to do it: Spread the word online that your organization is assembling a charity fantasy football league. Interested parties can pay a $20 fee to enter the league.
Why do it? This is one of those fundraiser ideas that will be a hit among men. Football fans will love to join a fantasy football league for charity.
131- Have a Virtual Movie Night
How to do it:
- Pick a newly released movie and advertise your movie night online.
- Require that viewers donate to receive the event link.
- Share your screen on the night of your event so viewers can watch the selected film.
Why do it? Hosting a virtual movie night has always been challenging. All you need is a computer and an HBO or Netflix account.
132- Put Together a Virtual Food Drive
How to do it & Why: A food drive might sound like a fundraiser idea that only works in person. However, a virtual food drive collects donations instead of physical food items. All you have to do is set up a page online where people can submit donations. This works best for organizations with food-based missions.
133- Sell Gift Baskets Online
How to do it: Make a site that allows people to browse and order gift baskets online. Pick a designated day for supporters to pick up their purchases.
Why do it: Great for the holiday season, help people shop for Christmas while raising money for your organization.
134- Hold a Christmas Costume Competition Online
How to do it:
- Ask community members to send pictures of their best Santa and elf costumes.
- Request that people make a donation to be considered.
- Share the winners on your social media platforms!
Why do it? Who says costumes are just for Halloween? Get people in the holiday spirit while supporting a good cause.
135- Virtual Bike-A-Thon
How to do it: Set up a page online challenging people to bike for a certain amount of time. Participants can collect pledges and post their results online to increase motivation. You can post your fundraising goals so people can donate directly to your cause.
Why do it? A virtual bike-a-thon provides the same benefits as a regular bike-a-thon for much less work.
136- Virtual “Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader” Challenge
How to do it: Host a “Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?” night for parents on Zoom. You can charge parents a small fee for the event link.
Why do it? Parents will love the chance to show off their smarts, and students will love watching their parents compete in a friendly challenge!
137- Virtual Bake Sale
How to do it: Make a site that allows people to browse and order bakery items online. Pick a designated day for supporters to pick up their purchases.
Why do it? Forget sitting at a booth all day! A virtual bake sale saves time and money for your organization.
138- Invite a Virtual Guest Speaker
How to do it: Ask a local expert in the field of your choice to speak on your live stream. Promote your guest speaker via social media to bring in a broader audience.
Why do it? The chance to listen to an expert may convince more people to tune in.
139- Virtual Yoga Class
How to do it: Ask a licensed instructor to teach a class for your organization via Zoom. You can request donations in exchange for the event link.
Why do it? Yoga is a popular workout, especially among women. Community members will love to take a yoga class while supporting your cause.
140- Have a Virtual Silent Auction
How to do it: Set up a page online promoting your silent auction item. People can donate and share about the silent auction online to be considered. Make sure to announce the winner on your social media accounts.
Why do it? This is a simple way for your non-profit to make the most of a recently received in-kind donation.
141- Give a Virtual Tour
How to do it: Great for animal-based organizations, host a virtual tour of your facility via Zoom or a live streaming service. Ask people to donate to receive a Zoom link.
Why do it? Whether in an animal sanctuary or zoo, people will be eager to see their favorite animals on screen.
Social Media Fundraiser Ideas
142- Make Use of Company Matching
Many companies offer company matching, which is when the employer matches the contribution of its employee. Reaching out to companies that provide company matching can help your organization double its fundraising efforts.
143- Make Use of Online Donation Requests
Many companies want to give back to their communities. Knowing how to find and approach the right companies is critical to raising money for your organization.
144- Look into Companies Who Accept Online Donation Requests
Many companies accept online donation requests online. Applying for online donations can create fundraising opportunities for your organization.
145- Investigate Companies Who Give In-Kind Donations
Many companies give out in-kind donations. Applying for in-kind donations can create fundraising opportunities for your organization.
146- Participate in Peer to Peer Fundraising
Peer-to-peer fundraising is when individual supporters create their own campaigns and collect donations from their inner circles. This form of fundraising can help your organization reach a wider audience and make a more direct impact.
147- Ask to do a Social Media Takeover
This is one of those fundraiser ideas that requires you to be tech-savvy, but the payoff is worth it. Get permission from a local business to take over their daily Instagram stories. Give a tour of your office, introduce your team, and share what a day in the life at your non-profit looks like! This allows you to connect with your community and share what your mission is all about.
148- Ask Local Businesses to Share about your Organization Online
An online presence helps get your name out there and reach a wider audience. Ask a local business to feature your organization in an Instagram story or Facebook update. You never know who might see it!
149- Have a Social Media Campaign
Hold a social media campaign in which you aim to post each day for a set amount of time, whether ten days, two weeks, or a month.
150- Use Social Media Trends to Your Advantage
Staying in the loop on social media trends can help your organization stay relevant and relatable. If there’s a popular hashtag that suits your non-profit’s brand, use it!
151- Crowdfunding
Crowdfunding refers to collecting small amounts of money from many people. Setting up a fundraising page where people worldwide can contribute can help your organization reach a broad audience and increase its funds.
152- Sign Up for Amazon Smile
Amazon Smile is an affiliate link that supporters can use while shopping. When someone purchases a product using your link, your non-profit gets a percentage of the profit. All you have to do is sign up and share your link online.
153- Write Email Campaigns
Email campaigns are a great way to keep supporters in the loop about upcoming events your organization hosts.
154- Do A Giveaway
Consider doing a giveaway if your non-profit has just received an in-kind donation! Require that people follow you on social media and tag a friend in one of your posts to enter.
155- Utilize Your Social Media
Having a robust social media presence can do wonders for your organization! Make the most of your social media platforms by posting regularly and connecting with your community.
Final Thoughts
There are endless ways for non-profits to fundraise. With these 155 fundraising ideas, you can plan an event to meet your fundraising goals that the community will love.
