Nonprofit Fundraising Ideas

Nonprofits come in all shapes and sizes, if you can think of a cause, chances are there’s a nonprofit out there that specializes in that cause. If you can think of a certain breed of dog or cat or horse, if you can think of a specific model or year of classic car, if you can think of a hobby, interest, favorite author, painter or playwright… chances are there’s a nonprofit out there that specializes in it, them, him or her. Nonprofits, by their very nature, are always holding a fundraiser. Fundraising can be challenging, especially in a tough economy. What can you do to make your nonprofit’s fundraiser stand out?

One of the biggest decisions is often deciding what type of fundraiser to do. In Yuma, AZ, a non-profit organization that provides counseling and support for women and children who have suffered from domestic violence, child abuse and sexual assault puts on a community-wide talent show fundraiser.  In Chicago a non-profit organization called Yoga Gardens supports inner-city youth, community development and create change that leads to jobs, with a Spring Fundraiser Party. Fundraisers by other Nonprofits include concerts, product sales, dances, golf tournaments, dinners, restaurant nights, bake sales, cookbooks, affinity programs, trivia nights, raffles, auctions, and thons.

Check out our complete list of fundraising products and do-it-yourself fundraising ideas for your next nonprofit fundraiser.

You can also choose from a wide variety of nonprofit DIY fundraising ideas to supplement your program. How about a 50/50 Raffle, Dinner Auction, Balloon Bust, One Night Stand, or thons of every type? Perhaps one of these successful and creative ideas can be adapted for your nonprofit fundraiser.

Animal Photos – This fundraiser works because kids of all ages love to have their photos taken with animals (usually the more exotic the better, but who can resist puppies and kittens), and parents have a hard time resisting because they are so very cute. If you have any animals that are very friendly with people and can take a half day or so of flash bulbs, get a local photographer to donate professional photo services, and set up at a mall or other event. Read more…

Miniature Golf Tournament – Reserve a miniature golf course for your youth group fundraising event. Have each student ask people to sponsor them per hole they play. (.10¢ per hole.) Then, run the tournament just like an Iron Man competition except you play on the miniature golf course.Read more…

Skip-a-Meal – Eight hundred and eighty students, approximately 11% of the regular diners, skipped a meal around the University of Massachusetts campus as a fundraiser to benefit the victims of the tsunami disaster in Southeast Asia. The event occurred at all UMass dining commons and local retail outlets. Read more