5 Fundraising Ideas You’ve Never Thought Of

There are over 1.5 million registered nonprofit organizations in the United States. And, depending on your region and season of fundraising, you could be asking for donations in a saturated market.  

What are some fun, new things you can do to stand out to potential donors? People are giving. Are you reaching them where they are at? Read more for some fundraising ideas you may not have yet tried.  

Does your campaign site best display your mission? If you are looking for a refresh, chat with GiveSmart fundraising experts today.  

1. Partner with large, local events  

If you are hoping to expand your reach, consider looking local and doing some research. Sports teams, collegiate teams, theaters, and high schools often share when someone in their community is affected by illness or hardship and needs support. Can you do a benefit game or revenue enhancer in partnership with these groups’ events?  

Can you ask to play a short mission video and share your text-to-donate link throughout the game or at intermission? That is an easy yes for most! The awareness opportunity with a captive audience makes that yes a huge win for your organization.  

2. Think local 

Small businesses are the cornerstone of our communities—urban, suburban, and rural. They need support now more than ever, and they have a whole audience of folks who may not know about your organization’s mission.  

Can your local coffee shop do a coffee of the month and share proceeds? Is your local brewery able to print coasters that have your text-to-donate link on them? Can your downtown business district paint the town “mission color” and feature your nonprofit? 

There are oodles of creative, not so-heavy-lift plans that can help move the needle for your organization; no matter if your goal for the initiative is to raise awareness, up volunteer recruitment, increase giving, or promote advocacy.  

3. Up your swag game  

You want your swag to leave an impression and be useful. As consumers’ needs change, you’ll get a greater return on investment if you shift to be on-trend (and on-mission). You’re likely using swag sparingly, at a high-level volunteer appreciation event or sponsorship pitch. What will make you memorable?  

If self-care is a buzzword you hear a lot, consider looking into products you can brand around that. Or, if you are partnering with a local coffee shop (see Think local above), consider a high-quality mug. More of your constituents working from home these days? Brand a cable wrangler for their new home office.  

And think about tying it all back to your mission. Can you get ethically sourced t-shirts for your volunteers (let your sponsors cover the cost)? Can you be cheeky with doggy duty bags or a rescue phone charger? There are strategic choices you can make to impress your supporters.  

4. #Influencer  

Influencer marketing is a rapidly growing and large (read nearly $14 billion) industry. And, it works. Over 61% of consumers trust influencer recommendations. If you aren’t considering influencer marketing, your organization might be missing out! 

Think about how influencer marketing is similar to peer-to-peer fundraising. Partnering with an influencer who is already connected to your mission and asking them to share your fundraisers, wish lists, volunteer opportunities, or other ways people can support you can go a long way in attracting people to your mission.   

5. Think unique  

Exclusivity sells. Are there fun, new, intimate things you can host—or get your junior board to spearhead—to drum up excitement (and dollars) for your mission? 

Can you do a movie premiere ahead of the midnight showing—more possible than you might think —and charge a premier price for an early public showing? Private, informative tours or exclusive meet-and-greets with limited availability can increase demand and price. Plus, they are memorable and great revenue enhancers for your main event! 

You are about to see supporters face-to-face for the first time in a long while. As you dust off those interpersonal skills, don’t forget how important it is to stand out to both your longtime supporters and new donor base.  These fresh, creative ideas can go a long way in securing continued support.  

Need more fundraising support and guidance? Chat with GiveSmart today.