Fundraising for Nonprofits

Finding the right fundraiser for your nonprofit organization can be daunting. However, it doesn’t have to be. This article covers 10 fundraising ideas for nonprofits that you can adapt to any theme or budget.

1- Bingo night 

A bingo night is a simple way to raise money and raise awareness for your cause. First, rent a hall or get permission from a local bar to host a bingo night. Then, advertise your event online and ask supporters to donate to sign up. You can also allow sign-ups on the night of the non profit fundraising event (make sure you have enough boards for everyone!). 

2- Hold a concert 

Nothing brings people together quite like live music. Ask a local band to host a concert where some or all of the proceeds go to your organization. Advertise your event online and ask supporters to donate to enter. You can also post your fundraising goal on the site so that people unable to attend can still donate and contribute. The more well-known the band, the better! 

3- Poker night 

Supporters will love putting on their best poker faces at this fundraiser event. Get permission from a local bar to host a poker night. Advertise your event online and ask the bar to offer drink discounts to attract more attendees. Let players know that all bets and proceeds will go to the organization. You can also have a casino-themed raffle basket available for additional revenue.  Fundraisers for nonprofits like this usually do very well.

4- Karaoke night 

Who doesn’t love karaoke? First, ask a local bar or restaurant if you can host a karaoke night and have supporters donate to participate. Then, advertise your event online and request the bar offer drink discounts for participating attendees to increase the number.  

5- Fashion show 

Is your nonprofit fashion-focused? Consider hosting a fashion show! Coordinate with local clothing brands and designers to assemble your show’s looks. Your nonprofit can sell tickets for entry and ask volunteers to model. You can also offer a “meet and greet” after the show where supporters can donate to meet the designers. 

6- Outdoor movie night 

Put a spin on the classic movie night fundraiser by bringing it outdoors! Set up an outdoor movie screening in the local park or drive-in. You can sell entry tickets and have lawn chairs and blankets available to rent. 

7- Car wash 

Car washes are classic fundraisers for nonprofits and are perfect for spring or summer. Have volunteers offer to wash cars in the neighborhood for a donation. You can also have refreshments available for purchase to increase your fundraising potential. 

8- Pump it up 

Washing cars is one of many ways to fundraise. With permission from the gas station, volunteers can offer to pump gas or clean windshields in exchange for donations. This fundraiser will likely draw large numbers, especially on a busy weekend. 

9- Rent-a-Worker

Are you looking for fundraisers for nonprofits that also help the community? Consider having a “Rent-a-Worker” day where community members can donate to “rent” volunteers. Tasks could include mowing the lawn, raking leaves, or taking out the trash. This fundraising idea is one that older community members will enjoy. 

10- Host a spa day 

Pamper the community by hosting a spa day. Have volunteers offer community members mani and pedi services in exchange for donations. You can also ask volunteers to bring in different nail polish colors. Having refreshments and a spa day-themed raffle basket available can increase your fundraising potential.