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75 Fundraising Ideas

Perfect for any size group!

Unique and exciting fundraisers are the key to success! But many people struggle to come up with the best fundraising ideas. Luckily, we have a list of 55 best fundraising ideas for any size group. Choose from the list below and start fundraising today!

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75 Best Fundraising Ideas

California College of the Arts (CCA) - DesignChoosing the perfect fundraiser is difficult, but thinking of ideas can be even harder! If you are new to fundraising or are looking for a fresh way to motivate your community to fundraise, you may be looking for a list of the best fundraising ideas!

You’ve come to the right place. With more than 20 years of experience in fundraising, we have found 55 of the best fundraising ideas for groups of any size, budget or location. Since the “best” can be different for different organisations, we have collected these easy fundraising ideas to help you get started and make your fundraising efforts a success!

Are you looking for school-specific fundraisers? No worries! We have a Complete Guide to School Fundraising that can help you find all the information you need about school fundraising. Visit our Complete Guide to School Fundraising today!

Complete Guide to School Fundraising

 

1. Gourmet Cookie Dough Fundraisers

Everybody loves dough-licious gourmet cookies – especially when they have contributed to a great cause! A gourmet cookie dough fundraiser is perfect for any sized group or time of year. Whether you are running a kindergarten, a community group, a sports team or a school, Gourmet Cookie Dough Fundraisers are ideal for you.

All you have to do is sell as many orders as possible, distribute your tubs of cookie dough, and enjoy the profit! Members will receive an order form with everything they need to know to sell their cookies online. When your fundraiser is complete, you will receive all of your orders and distribute them. The profit from every tub is deposited into your account every two weeks. Plus, with every member eligible for automated incentive prizes, a gourmet cookie dough fundraiser is a win-win!

 

Cookie dough fundraisers are one of the best fundraising ideas!

Cookie dough fundraisers are one of the best fundraising ideas!

 

Advantages:

A cookie dough fundraiser like Billy G’s Gourmet Cookie Dough Fundraiser comes with lots of advantages! Not only are they easy to run and absolutely risk-free, they are very popular among groups of any age or size.

  • Easy to run
  • No money is required up front!
  • Risk-free
  • Very popular (and delicious!)
  • Most people can afford to purchase a tub
  • Quick to sell and make a profit, raising $3.50 on every tub sold
  • FREE Online Store – no cash handling!
  • FREE automated prizes for every participant who sells a tub!
  • Comes with all promotional materials and one-on-one support.

 

Disadvantages:

Unfortunately, cookie dough fundraisers aren’t available to all groups due to location. If you want to know if a cookie dough fundraiser is available to you, contact our friendly team today.

 

Best For…

A cookie dough fundraiser is one of the best fundraising ideas for childcare, schools, dance groups, sports teams – basically anyone who loves dough-licious cookies. Ask about a cookie dough fundraiser today!

 

Learn More About A Cookie Dough Fundraiser

 

 

2. School Fete
Everyone has wonderful memories of going to a fundraising fete! Fetes or fairs are one of the best fundraising ideas that will draw a lot of people’s attention and interest to your event. They often make a profit if managed and advertised well, but are not always easy.

Amusement rides are a must-have for any celebration, and they can be a great way to provide a good revenue stream for any type of organisation. Not only that, choosing to rent amusements for your fundraising event is one of the best ways to make your event an unforgettable experience.

 

Not sure if a fete or fair is right for you? Discover our recent article on Fetes vs. Fun Runs, and decide whether your group would benefit from a fete or if another fundraising idea might be better suited.

 

Fetes vs Fun Runs? Which is best?

 

Fetes are a fun but time consuming fundraising idea.

Fetes are a fun but time-consuming fundraising idea.

 

Advantages:
  • Increase family and friendship bonds
  • A good way to bring friends and family to a fun atmosphere
  • Everyone will have a great time while raising money for your organisation
  • Keep children entertained for hours
  • Lots of opportunities for community involvement through volunteering, attendance and donations.

 

Disadvantages:
  • May need to organise many different rides
  • Needs ample time for planning and preparation
  • Safety needs to be monitored at all times
  • Requires lots of volunteers, both during planning, set up and on the day!

 

Best For…

Fetes require lots of organisation, a big upfront budget, and a large community that can support you in attendance! Fetes are a fundraising idea best suited to sporting clubs, schools and larger community groups.

 

3. Walk-a-thon or Fun Runs

A walk-a-thon or Fun Run is the perfect, community-engaging way to fundraise! Organising a “walk or run for a cause” is perfect because you mix exercise and raising money in a fun way. Even childcare centres can participate in an obstacle-a-thon.

In the lead-up to the event, participants collect sponsorships using their sponsorship booklet and FREE online fundraising page! Then, you host your Fun Run or Walk-A-Thon event, having students race around the school or club oval. Worried students might not fundraise? There is nothing to fear with our risk-free fundraising programs and incentive prizes! Every participant who raises a minimum of $10 is entitled to awesome incentive prizes!

 

A fun run or walk-a-thon is a great fundraising idea for all groups and organisations!

A fun run or walk-a-thon is a great fundraising idea for all groups and organisations!

 

Advantages:
  • Promotes physical exercise
  • Risk-free
  • No money upfront
  • Increases the sense of community spirit
  • Can be a great community builder
  • Simple to organise
  • Highly profitable

 

Disadvantages:
  • This fundraising idea may sound boring
  • May need to draw up a compelling reason to promote involvement
  • Will have to purchase incentive prizes

 

Best for…

A fun run or walkathon fundraiser is one of the best fundraising ideas for childcare, schools, dance groups, sports teams – basically anyone who loves to get active and support their organisation. Ask about a Fun Run or Walk-a-thon fundraiser today!

 

There are companies such as Australian Fundraising that supply a full package of fun-run fundraisers that make up to 60% guaranteed profit and supply all the fundraising materials you need to succeed. Groups and organisations are smashing their fundraising goals with My Profile Page, an online fundraising platform that allows parents/children to raise funds for their school or group. With lots of different types of Fun Runs available, why not see if your favourite fundraising idea is right here!

 

Explore a Fun Run with Australian Fundraising

 

4. Spell-A-Thon or Speed Sums event

An old-school Spell-A-Thon or Speed Sums event is a great way to improve their literacy and/or numeracy skills while also supporting their school, group or organisation. One of the longest-standing fundraising ideas, Spell-A-Thons and Speed Sums event can be a high-profit fundraiser due to the minimal costs involved.

Present each student with a word or sum to recite. If the student gets the answer correct, they stay in the competition. If they answer incorrectly, they are eliminated. The final student standing in crowned your group’s ultimate Spell-A-Thon or Speed Sum Champion! If you like, you can also offer incentive prizes to students to help them aim for higher fundraising goals!

 

A spelling bee or speed sums event can be a great fundraising idea!

Spelling bees and speed sums events are cheap and popular fundraising ideas.

 

Advantages:
  • Low cost to run
  • Highly profitable
  • Helps develop participants’ spelling or maths skills
  • Donations can be made per successful word spelt/sum solved or as a given amount

 

Disadvantages:
  • It can be time-consuming to find age-appropriate words that allow all students to participate.
  • Requires lots of volunteers or teacher support
  • Some students may not find a Spell-A-Thon as “fun” as other fundraisers

 

Best For…

Spell-A-Thons are an easy fundraising idea for groups that centre around education. Kindergartens, schools and tutoring clubs enjoy Spell-A-Thons or Maths Competitions the most.

 

Make it easy! You can bypass the process of preparing for this fundraising event if you opt for Australian Fundraising. With a full package of Spell-a-thon fundraisers, you can make up to 60% guaranteed profit. We will supply all the fundraising materials and incentive prizes, even helping with your lists and overall fundraising management. Ask us how you can host a Spell-A-Thon today!

Host a Spell-A-Thon with Australian Fundraising

 

5. Colour Run Event
Have the brightest day at school! A Colour Explosion School Run 4 Fun is an exciting and colourful way to raise funds. Students and members of all types of groups love the bright, exciting colour fun run!

Adapted from the ancient Holi Festival in India, Colour Explosion fun runs have taken Australia by storm because they are visual, fun, and not limited to dedicated athletes. As participants run around your track, spray them with our genuine biodegradable, starch-based colour powder! As an added bonus, spray your participants with water to make the colours really pop!

 

The Color Run - 2023

 

A Colour Explosion School Run 4 Fun is one of the easiest fundraisers because it comes with everything you need to succeed! When you hold your Colour Explosion fun run with Australian Fundraising, you receive sponsorship booklets, promotional posters and materials, incentive prizes, an online fundraising platform, and so much more. Of course, you also receive genuine Holi Colour powder, sunglasses and rainbow headbands for every participant!

 

Advantages:
  • So much fun for students/members, teachers and parents
  • Highly profitable
  • Exciting and vibrant fundraising concept
  • Builds community involvement

 

Disadvantages:
  • Requires lots of volunteers, especially on the day! You will need supervision, colour blasters, water blasters and an MC for the day.
  • Requires an event day, which may be challenging to fit into a busy school calendar
Best For…
  • Primary schools, high schools, sporting clubs, child care centres and community groups.

 

Australian Fundraising offers a complete Colour Explosion Fundraiser, including non-toxic colour powder pre-packed in spray bottles, UV400 sunglasses, Thank You Wristbands, the biggest range of incentive prizes and marketing material to turn your event into an explosion of colour.

 

Discover Australian Fundraising’s School Colour Explosion Fun Run

6. Glow in the Dark Disco
There is something magical about things that glow in the dark… It’s time for your school dance or disco to have a glow-up with Australian Fundraising’s new Glowtastic Disco Party! Turn up the fun at your next school dance party with this exciting, ticket-free disco fundraiser.

 

The Glowtastic Disco Party is one of our 55 top fundraising ideas

The Glowtastic Disco Party is one of our 55 top fundraising ideas

You will raise more money when you replace ticket sales with online fundraising! Students are motivated to aim for a big fundraising total with 12 awesome automated incentive prizes, as well as the chance to win a PlayStation 5, Monty the Monstar prizes and your awesome Glowtastic Disco Party!

Relieve the burden of organising a disco dance party, and let Australian Fundraising do the hard work instead! With a huge suite of custom advertising materials and dedicated support from your one-on-one account manager, your Glowtastic Disco Party will quickly become your volunteer team’s favourite fundraiser.

Inclusions:
• Glow in the Dark Light Kit
• Glowtastic Disco Party backdrop
• Coordinator Glow Kits (1 per 100 students, maximum of 5)
• Glow in the Dark sunglass frames for every student
• Glow in the Dark Face Paint Set
• FREE Online, cybersafe fundraising platform with free platform, credit card and transaction fees
• Printed posters and vinyl fence banner
• Sponsorship booklets
• Online Coordinators portal, with communication templates, social media posts, campaign and event checklists, calendars, and more!
• Highest school fundraiser medallion
• Automated incentive prizes only
• Monty the Monstar prizes

Find out more about the Glowtastic Disco Party here

Advantages:
  • This type of fundraiser is fun to run
  • You will raise more money when you replace ticket sales with online fundraising
  • You are provided with everything you need to host it. All you need to do is organise the DJ.
  • Everyone gets excited about a glow-in-the-dark event.
Disadvantages:
  • It may be difficult to have a space big enough and dark enough to run this during the day
  • You will need to organise your own DJ.
Best for…

A glow in the dark disco suits kids of all ages. The parents are welcome to come along and get involved as face painters if they like. It will take a small number of people to setup and take it down, and will not tax your volunteers too much for the limited time they can give you. This can be run completely online through our cyber-safe fundraising platform, and you only need an ABN and a bank account to get started.

7. Raffles
Raffles are always popular, with the right prize on offer. They can be run at any time throughout the year and $2 or $3 raffle tickets are very well received.

 

Advantages:
  • Highly successful with the right prize on offer
  • Easy for participants to get involved and sell tickets
  • Lots of donors can participate
  • Can be an additional fundraising activity at an event, such as a trivia night or school fete

 

Disadvantages:
  • Upfront costs
  • Requires lots of paperwork and manual organisation – ticket management (which may include printing!), cash handling, prize draw etc.
  • Low return on each ticket
  • You risk losing money if you don’t sell enough tickets to cover the cost of the prize on offer

 

Best for…

Raffles are well received by any community! But, they work best for organisations that see their members on a regular basis, like schools, sporting teams, hobby groups and dance schools. Ensure that your participants have access to a wide community of potential ticket buyers!

8. Wine Tasting and Winery Tours
One for the adults, wine tasting and tours are a great way to bring in money! Raise money for your organisation while exploring local wineries, and spoil yourself for a vast range of wine choices during wine sampling and tasting. This event is ideal for the winter months.

 

Wine tasting is one of our 65 best fundraising ideas.

Wine tasting is one of our 55 best fundraising ideas.

 

Advantages:
  • This type of fundraiser is fun to run
  • You learn how wine is produced
  • Your audience is given a chance to try wine samples before buying

 

Disadvantages:
  • Everyone may not want to join in
  • Encourages alcohol consumption, which may be sensitive for some members of your community
  • Variable profit margin
  • Requires proximity to a vineyard or someone who is knowledgeable about wine and can run your event
  • Not child friendly

 

Best for…

A wine-tasting event or winery tour is best suited to groups that have adults in their community. As it is not a child-friendly activity, wine tasting events or winery tours are best suited to hobby groups, extra-curricular groups (like sporting teams and dance clubs), and scouting groups. Primary schools may also like this activity if they have an engaged parent community.

 

9. Christmas Concerts
Christmas concerts are often a yearly tradition for school groups and are also a perfect time to earn extra spending money. Christmas concerts can become one of the best fundraising ideas if you put the time and effort into making it a brilliant fundraising event by selling tickets, and programs, and holding a canteen or snacks stand. You may even offer pre-concert entertainment like amusement rides, a children’s art gallery or a petting zoo.

 

A Christmas Concert is one of the best fundraising ideas.

You can host a Christmas Concert as one of your annual fundraisers.

 

Advantages:
  • Lots of flexibility – you can make it as simple or elaborate as you like!
  • Encourages students to become comfortable performing
  • Brings the community into your school or group – especially family members and friends
  • Very memorable for students and parents
  • Most students and families will participate

 

Disadvantages:
  • Income depends on ticket sales
  • May require an upfront cost for costumes, amusement rides and canteen supplies
  • Requires lots of organisation and practice time for students
  • Requires a location for your concert
  • Requires out of school time commitment for students and parents to perform

 

Best for…

Christmas concerts are best for groups that meet regularly and have time to practice a routine. Christmas concerts are one of the best fundraising ideas for schools and dance groups.

 

10. Bike-A-Thon or Ride-A-Thon
Raising money through a bike-a-thon is very similar to a walk-a-thon, except that the children are riding bikes. The twist: it mixes fun, fitness and fundraising.

 

A bike-a-thon can be a great fundraising idea for older fundraisers.

A bike-a-thon can be a great fundraising idea for older fundraisers.

 

Advantages:
  • Easy to put together
  • This fundraiser is quick, simple and secure
  • Promotes physical exercise and teamwork

 

Disadvantages:
  • Safety should be considered at all times
  • You might have difficulty in getting a city permit, depending on where you’d like to ride
  • May require “event insurance”
  • Preparation must be done in advance as the event involves closing off some roads and informing students and parents of the route
  • May exclude some families who do not own or cannot afford bikes and helmets

 

Best for…

A bike-a-thon is best suited to older participants due to safety. Bike-a-thons are one of the best fundraising ideas for sporting groups, high schools and local community groups.

 

Make it easy! You can help speed up the process of preparing for this fundraising event if you opt for Australian Fundraising. With a full package of Bike-A-Thon fundraisers, you can make up to 60% guaranteed profit. We will supply all the fundraising materials and incentive prizes, even helping with your route and overall fundraising management. Ask us how you can host a Bike-A-Thon today!

Host a Ride-A-Thon with Australian Fundraising

 

11. Battle of the Bands
Listening to your favorite school band is best done in a mosh pit. Whether you have passion for music or you just want to support a musical group for a good cause, Battle of the Bands is the best way to go. You can make money through an entry free, ticket sales, event activities and sales (like glow sticks or a canteen). Now, raise your fist and yell!

 

Battle of the bands is a fun fundraising idea.

A Battle of the Bands is one of our 55 best fundraising ideas.

 

Advantages:
  • Fun and memorable event for everyone involved
  • Allows the musically-inclined people to showcase their talent
  • Helps amateur bands gain exposure whilst playing in front of an audience

 

Disadvantages:
  • Safety should be considered at all times
  • The competition needs money for prizes and sound equipment
  • A band competition needs dedication, patience and a lot of hard work
  • Requires your school community to have numerous bands willing to compete
  • Lots of organisation, from ticket sales, equipment, practice and more.

 

Best for…

Anyone can host a Battle of the Bands, but it is definitely best for age groups that are able to work together and perform confidently in front of a group. Battle of the Bands is one of the best fundraising ideas for upper primary schools, high schools, and the local community overall.

 

12. Chef Cook Off
Whether you are a true-blue foodie or you just want to learn a thing or two from cooking experts, chef cook off will surely be appealing to you. Invite chefs and have them cook their favorite dishes. Sell tickets to people who love cooking and eating.

 

Fashion - Ceremony

 

Advantages:
  • Easy to set up
  • Fun activity
  • Allows the audience to learn the skill of cooking
  • Gives them a chance to taste a wide variety of food
  • Captures people’s interest

 

Disadvantages:
  • This is one fundraiser idea that needs strong organisational skills
  • Requires connections and commitment from numerous chefs
  • May require upfront costs
  • Requires a location with one or more kitchen facilities and an area for your guests

 

Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, schools

 

13. Beat the Goal Keeper
If you want to satisfy your communities competitive nature, this fundraiser guarantees satisfaction. Set up your goals with goal-keepers. Participants pay a fee to “shoot for the goal” and beat the goal keeper. This activity can be adjusted to be a “Free Throw Competition” or “Kick a 50m goal” for other sports.

 

Beat the Goal Keeper is one of the best fundraising ideas for sporting clubs.

Beat the Goal Keeper is one of the best fundraising ideas for sporting clubs.

 

Advantages:
  • Easy to put together
  • Allows players to enjoy the spirit of sportsmanship

 

Disadvantages:
  • Safety should be considered at all times
  • Requires volunteer goal keepers
  • Low profit

 

Best For…

Of course, beat the goalie is the best fundraising idea for sporting groups, especially soccer, basketball, and football clubs. However, schools may also find this to be a popular and fun fundraising idea.

 

14. Black Tie Event
Formal events can often draw the rich and famous in your community, as well as parents and friends who love to dress up.

 

Stock photography - Tuxedo

 

Advantages:
  • This event can attract the wealthy people around your area giving you a greater chance to raise money
  • Fun event that gives parents an opportunity to let their hair down, kid-free!
  • It is not all the time that people get to dress up so they will look forward to this event
  • Can be combined with other fundraising ideas, such as a raffle, charity auction, or sale of beverages

 

Disadvantages:
  • Expensive to organise, and you may run at a loss if you don’t sell enough tickets
  • Requires lots of organisation and advertising
  • Requires many volunteers to plan and execute the evening
  • A black tie event is not child-friendly
  • Requires a venue with access to a kitchen, alcohol license (optional) and staff or volunteers

 

A gala ball is an expensive but wonderful fundraising idea.

Black Tie Events can be one of the most exciting fundraising ideas.

 

Groups:

A black tie event is one of the best fundraising ideas for groups with a large community and reach. This type of fundraiser also requires lots of organisation and volunteers, and is therefore best suited to groups with paid staff. Groups that may enjoy a black-tie fundraiser are larger sports clubs and hobby groups, charities and high schools.

 

15. Art or Craft Exhibitions
Exhibits are not only intended to provide a visual treat, but also to help entrepreneurs to promote their products. When you kick exhibits up a notch, it becomes a highly profitable fundraiser thatattracts interested participants and help your community.

 

Advantages:
  • A good opportunity for new starters to be discovered
  • A good opportunity for senior students to exhibit their talent
  • Offers different ways to raise money

 

Disadvantages:
  • Needs very good organisation skills
  • May require ample preparation to get a good number of participants

 

Best for…
  • Primary schools, high schools, sporting groups, community groups

 

16. A Dog Walk Fundraiser
Who says fundraising is only for humans? Even your furry friends can join through a dog walk fundraiser. Ask people in your community to walk their dog in exchange for donations. Your random kindness will surely be appreciated.

 

Dog - Cat

 

Advantages:
  • Fun idea
  • Promotes the love of animals
Disadvantages:
  • Needs to be promoted properly to get supporters
Best for…
  • Primary schools, sporting groups, community groups
17. Scrabble Tournament
Are you a wordsmith? Scrabble tournament may just be a perfect fundraiser for you. Willing participants will pay a registration fee to be counted in the event and whoever wins gets a trophy or prize. The catch? The registration fee will go directly to your beneficiaries.

Advantages:
  • Lots of fun
  • Learn new vocabulary
  • Easy to organise
Disadvantages:
  • Needs to be marketed properly to promote involvement
Best for…
  • High schools and primary schools, sporting groups, community groups
18. Barbeque Fundraiser
Barbeques are a famous Australian tradition. Celebrating with good food and great people is a wonderful way to support your group and raise additional funds. You can add music, a football or cricket game to make it a whole day event. Alternatively, you can sell steaks, sausages, hotdogs, chips and soda to raise funds.

 

Barbecue - Grilling

 

Advantages:
  • Fun and exciting
  • A great opportunity for people to catch up with friends and relax
  • Easy to organise
Disadvantages:
  • May require permits if held in a different venue
  • Needs a lot of work and planning to hold a successful barbeque event
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, primary schools
19. Tree Planting
You can do the environment a huge favor while also raising money if you organise tree planting for your next fundraising event. Taking donations and planting or adopting a tree is one of the most eco-friendly fundraisers. You may charge for each new tree and the donor plants it themselves; or people may adopt an existing tree and donate money for its upkeep.

 

Tree - Tree planting

 

Advantages:
  • Fun and exciting
  • Promotes environmental awareness
  • Helps save the planet
Disadvantages:
  • Not feasible for some groups e.g. groups located in the city centre
Best for…
  • Primary schools, high schools, sporting groups, community groups
20. Charity Golf Tournament
Organise a fundraiser at a golf course or driving range by hosting a charity golf tournament so golf enthusiasts can participate and make a donation through their admission fee. You can also ask for sponsors to pay for particular holes e.g. the XYZ 9th hole. Remember to have drinks and snacks available for purchase after the game.

Advantages:
  • Fun and innovative idea to raise funds
  • A large percentage of population enjoys golfing
  • This idea offers several ways to make profit
  • An amusing activity that both parents and children will enjoy
Disadvantages:
  • The event needs to be organised on a weekend
  • Needs to be properly marketed
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, high schools and primary schools, child care, community groups
21. Movie and Popcorn Nights
Organise a fundraiser by getting the whole family involved. Movie and popcorn nights are a great way to let families enjoy themselves and raise money for your group. You can also arrange other activities like kite flying, fun sports (like throwing darts at balloons or sack races) and even craft areas to raise money.

 

Cinema - Theater

 

Advantages:
  • This idea offers several ways to make money
  • Families are given quality time to have fun together
  • An awesome activity that both parents and children will enjoy
Disadvantages:
  • Safety should also be considered in game selection
  • Children may become bored and restless if the correct movie isn’t chosen
  • Needs to be properly marketed
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, high schools, primary schools, child care, community groups
22. Car Wash
A car wash is a quick and very popular way to raise funds. All you have to do is to set up your car wash station in a busy location so every car owner will have the chance to give their some tender love and care. Children can participate in washing cars while parents assist. This is a win-win situation as the car owner gets a nice clean car and your group raises funds for your special project.

 

Car - Car Wash

 

Advantages:
  • Quick and easy way to make money
  • You don’t need a lot of money to start this fundraiser. All you need is a bucket, soap, sponge and water
Disadvantages:
  • Needs volunteers to do the car wash
  • Needs to advertise at the time so people know what the money will be used for
  • Need to ensure waste water doesn’t run off into pipes running to waterways
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, high schools, community groups, primary schools
23. Lemonade Stand
Setting up a lemonade stand is a great way for children to raise funds for their group. When you spread the word that your kids are raising money for a good cause, many people will get involved and buy a glass of cold lemonade from them.

 

Lemonade - Wallpaper

 

Advantages:
  • A good way to teach children to help
  • You don’t need a lot of money to start up
  • Easy and quick way to raise funds
Disadvantages:
  • Needs to be promoted properly to get the word out
  • Need to find a good location to sell your beverage to many people
  • Lemonade has to be produced in a hygienic manner
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, primary schools, child care centres
24. Garden Sale
A garden sale is a profitable way to raise funds to support your group. Organise volunteers to price the garden products including plants, herbs, vegetables, flowers, garden tools and accessories.

Advantages:
  • A good way to support the health of your group – selling healthy vegetables
  • Easy to set up and run
Disadvantages:
  • Needs many volunteers
  • May be time consuming if you are going to grow the items from seed
 Groups:
  • Sporting groups, primary schools, community groups
25. Bingo
Bingo is a popular fundraising idea. You can charge a pre-set admission fee or sell individual bingo books for those who’d like to join the fun.

Advantages:
  • Fun way to raise funds
  • A profitable way to raise revenue
  • A popular game
Disadvantages:
  • You need to know about your state’s licensing regulations
  • You need to plan your bingo program ahead of time so you can maximise your sales
Best for…
  • Primary schools, sporting groups, high schools, community groups
26. Boating Trip or Cruise
This is one of the most exciting ways to raise money to support your group. A cruise takes you to interesting destinations which attract many people. Your group will be the one to decide how long the cruise will last.

Advantages:
  • Your audience will be able to experience the joy of boating
  • A profitable way to raise a considerable amount of money
  • Increases the chance of getting more supporters
 Disadvantages:
  • Needs expensive investment
  • Need to be able to organise many different things, especially if the cruise is all inclusive
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, primary schools
27. Book Sale
Books lying around the house can still be put to better use by hosting a book sale. This is an interesting fundraising idea for people with a penchant for reading.

 

Anne Frank House - Book

 

Advantages:
  • Encourage people to develop the habit of reading
  • Used books are utilised rather than being thrown away or left to collect dust
  • No large outlay of capital is needed to begin the event
Disadvantages:
  • Needs to be marketed properly to draw more people
Best for…
  • Primary schools, sporting groups, community groups
28. Pull a Bus
You can gather a team and raise money through a bus pull. If you have lots of teams, make it a race to make it more fun and exciting. You can collect admission fees for those who would like to join in.

Advantages:
  • Fun and exciting way to raise money
  • Easy to arrange and organise
Disadvantages:
  • Safety should be considered during the contest
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, high schools
29. Selling Calendars
Selling calendars is one of the most rewarding fundraising ideas. Let your clients choose from one of your stylish calendar designs or you can also give them an option to create their own design. To promote your school or club, you can put your logo or name on each page.

Advantages:
  • Creative way to raise funds to support your group
  • Selling your calendars keeps your name visible throughout the year
Disadvantages:
  • You need to market your product properly
  • This can only be done towards the end of every year
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, primary schools
30. Charity Ball
Raise money to support your group in a sophisticated way. It is a fact that people love to attend parties. So with this type of fundraiser idea, you can organise a themed ball and raise money through tickets, raffles and games.

Advantages:
  • This is an event that gives value for money
  • Offers your organisation a chance to raise a large amount of money in one fundraiser
  • Gives your attendees a memorable occasion they won’t forget
Disadvantages:
  • Needs good organisational skills, commitment and passion
  • Needs to be marketed properly to ensure many people attend
Best for…
  • Primary schools, sporting groups, community groups, high schools
31. Concerts
Keep supporters entertained while raising money at the same time by holding a concerts in your school ground. Even with a small group to organise the event, you can ensure success if you invite as many participants as possible.

 

Concert - Festival

 

Advantages:
  • A super-entertaining and fun event
Disadvantages:
  • Needs a lot of hard work and organisational skills
Best for…
  • Primary schools, sporting groups, community groups, high schools
32. Crossword Contest
Create your own crossword so that people pay for each and every clue they’d like to solve.

 

Puzzle solving - Crossword

 

 Advantages:
  • This is very easy to set up
  • Fun game
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, high schools, primary schools
33. Dance/Disco
Dancing has an element of entertainment and can be a form of physical activity. It can also be a great way to raise money when organised properly.

Advantages:
  • A good way for dancers to show their talents
  • Fun way to help your group
Disadvantages:
  • This event can be expensive
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, high schools, primary schools
34. Dog Show
You can also raise money from dog shows by charging fees to gain access to the show.

Advantages:
  • Promotes animal responsibility and awareness
  • Easy to organise
  • Fun way to raise funds
 Disadvantages:
  • Needs great marketing skills
  • Safety concerns need to be thought of at all times
Best for…
  • Primary schools, sporting groups, community groups
35. Face Painting
Children and adults can show their creativity by hosting a face painting event.

Advantages:
  • Allows attendees to have fun and show off their talent and creativity at the same time
Disadvantages:
  • Make sure that you research every aspect of this fundraiser as different paints etc, may cause allergic reactions
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, child care, primary schools
36. Fashion Show
Fashion shows are a hit around the world. Organising a fashion show fundraiser means you will often raise a considerable amount of money for your organisation. Look for sponsors for your catwalks, your models’ outfits and charge admission fees for your audience. Morning tea or lunch is an additional way to raise money.

 

Orange - Cuisine

 

 Advantages:
  • Fun and fabulous event
  • High profitable
Disadvantages:
  • Needs a lot of organisational work
  • Very expensive affair
  • Needs to be properly promoted
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, high schools, primary schools
37. Football or Sports Tournament
Football that puts you on the edge of your seat for every goal made. Schedule a football tournament or another sports game and charge admission fees for spectators and players. During and after the tournament, have stalls where you sell beverages, snacks and memorabilia for spectators.

Advantages:
  • A fun and healthy way to raise money
  • Easy to organise
  • Gives you more ways to earn money
Disadvantages:
  • Make sure that safety and rules are observed throughout the game
  • Needs good marketing skills
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, high schools, primary schools
38. Temporary Tattoos
Temporary tattoos have been around since about 1998 and are popular with both children and adults as they don’t leave any permanent mark on the skin. Supporters who want to get temporarily inked can take advantage of this fundraising idea.

Advantages:
  • You can use temporary tattoos to raise awareness of your school or sport club
  • Allow attendees to customise their tattoos
  • Quick and very easy way to raise money
  • Can be cleaned and removed easily
Disadvantages:
  • Some people may be allergic to ink or other materials used in temporary tattoos
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, high schools, child care, primary schools
39. Beach Party
Your supporters can have a little R & R whilst also helping your organisation raise money for a good cause. Since you will be holding the fundraising event on the beach, sell something that will be a huge hit for beach goers. You can offer diving or surfing classes to increase your fundraising profit.

 

Beach - Stock photography

 

Advantages:
  • This type of fundraiser can be enjoyed by both children and adults
  • Fun way to raise money
  • Offers several ways to make money
 Disadvantages:
  • Make sure that the venue is safe for the children
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, high schools, child care, primary schools
40. Garage Sale
Ask parents to donate things around the house that they no longer use but are still useful.

People may not have money to donate your school or group, but many people have items that may be sold to help your group.

 

Estate sale - Garage sale

 

Advantages:
  • Allows people to tidy their home and at the same time support your group
  • Easy to organise
Disadvantages:
  • Needs a massive advertising campaign about your event to ensure both donors and buyers offer their support
  • People may donate something which is no longer useful
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, high schools, child care, primary schools
41. Greeting Cards
Personalised greeting cards can be a great fundraising idea as people who are stumped for gift ideas will surely support it.

 Advantages:
  • Simple
  • High earning potential
  • Personalised service
Disadvantages:
  • May need a lot of planning and promotion to ensure a successful fundraiser
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, high schools, child care, primary schools
42. Flower Arranging Seminar
Flowers are a popular gift to give on special occasions. Set up your stall and sell your fresh, dried or silk flower arrangement to raise money for your group.

 

Flower bouquet - Flower

 

Advantages:
  • Flowers are the most common gift people give on special occasions
  • Fun and exciting way to bring in extra money for your group
Disadvantages:
  • Needs to be properly marketed
  • May need a large amount of capital to set up
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, primary schools
43. Karaoke
Organise a night of singing and fun with a karaoke fundraiser. You can charge admission fees and boost your earning potential by selling beverages and snacks throughout the event.

 Advantages:
  • Offers several ways to make money
  • Allows friends and families to get together and have some fun
Disadvantages:
  • Needs to be properly marketed
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, primary schools
44. Paintball
Paintball is a wonderful fundraiser idea if you are looking for fun and adventure.

Advantages:
  • Allows your attendees to have fun and experience adventure
  • A good opportunity for friends to catch up
Disadvantages:
  • May cause serious injury if body protection and safety are not observed
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, high schools, primary schools
45. Puppet Shows
Make your fundraiser interesting by having a fun-filled puppet show. Collect entrance fees and sell food and drinks to attendees.

Advantages:
  • Puppet shows have been around for a long time and are gaining in popularity
  •  Fun way to raise funds
Disadvantages:
  • Needs to be promoted properly
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, child care, primary schools
46. A Trivia Night
Organise a gathering where you test your attendees knowledge about pop, trivia or sports. Raise extra money for your group by selling food and drinks.

Advantages:
  • Fun and easy way to raise funds
  • Good opportunity for your attendees to learn new information
Disadvantages:
  • May need money for prizes
  • Needs marketing to encourage participation
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, high schools, child care, primary schools
47. Refreshments
Selling coffee, tea, soft drinks, chips and snacks at most fundraiser events is also a great way to raise funds. This can be done at sporting events, school fairs and much more.

 Advantages:
  • Boost your fundraising potential
  • Easy to organise
Disadvantages:
  • Need volunteers to sell the items

Groups:

  • Sporting groups, community groups, high schools, child care, primary schools
48. Stage a Play
Entertain people and at the same time raise funds by staging a play. Sell entrance tickets as well as snacks and drinks to increase your earning potential.

Advantage:
  • Fun and entertaining way to raise funds
  • Offers several ways to raise funds
Disadvantages:
  • Your fundraiser needs to be marketed properly
  • Needs capital investment upfront for costumes and set
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, high schools
49. Bring and Buy Sale
Holding an auction as a fundraiser allows people to bid on pre-loved or pre-owned items while also lending a helping hand to the fundraising campaign’s beneficiary. This is the kind of fundraiser that promotes a sense of compassion as people volunteer to bring their old items to sell while the proceeds go directly to your school or club. There is one caveat though: no haggling!

Advantages:
  • Easy to organise as you can auction practically anything
Disadvantages:
  • Buyers may find things they don’t need or want
  • Guest appearances are essential to increase the number of participants
 Groups:

Ideal for sporting clubs and community groups

50. Chocolates
The fastest way to donors’ heart is through their stomach. This is why chocolates are highly profitable if managed well.

Advantage:
  • Everyone likes chocolates
  • Easily distributed
Disadvantages:
  • Need very good administration to keep track of profit
  • Will lose $70 per carry pack if members do not return monies
  • Can take a very long time to complete the fundraiser
Best for…
  • Sporting groups, community groups, high schools, child care, primary schools
51. Children’s Artwork
Organise children’s artwork to enhance kid’s creativity. Their artwork can be printed on plates, tea towels, pillows.

 

Stock photography - Painting

 

Advantage:
  • Popular with parents, grandparents
  • Good range of products
Disadvantages:
  • Need to engage a company to produce the items
  • Good administration needed
Best for…
  • Child care, primary schools
52. Dance Night
If you have a dance faculty at your school, showcasing your schools talent can be a fantastic way to fundraise for your school or group. A popular fundraising idea for high schools or dance schools, a performance evening allows the local community to support their young performers, and encourages dancers to become more comfortable performing on stage!

You can fundraise through this event by selling tickets, programs, and refreshments on the night. You may like to boost your profits and partner other smaller fundraising ideas such as an art exhibition or raffle also.

 

One of the best fundraising ideas for dance schools is a dance night.

High schools and dance schools may both love the idea of a dance night fundraiser.

 

Advantage:
  • Invites the local community into your school or dance club
  • Can be easy to sell tickets to family, friends and local community members
  • Adds a promotional opportunity for your school or dance club
  • Gives young performers an opportunity to show off their talent!

 

Disadvantages:
  • Long turn around time, as students need time to learn and practice their dance routines
  • Requires a large space for an audience
  • Requires numerous staff or volunteers to set up or pack down, operate lights, collect tickets and usher guests to their seats.

 

Best for…

A dance night one of the best fundraising ideas for dance groups, high schools, or primary schools with a dedicated dance department.

 

53. Grandparents Day

Welcoming grandparents or older influential people into your school can be a lovely and enriching experience for both students and their guests. By selling tickets for your grandparents day tour, you can raise much needed funds for your school or group.

Grandparents Day may include a morning tea, a tour of the school, and a short time in the classroom or library with students. Let students be the hosts and show off their school!

 

Grandparents Days are popular fundraising ideas.

Inviting grandparents or students’ influential people can be a popular and memorable fundraiser.

 

Advantages
  • Grandparents Days are a memorable experience for both students and their influential people, giving them an opportunity to spend quality time together
  • Lots of flexibility in how simple or complex you would like to make your day
  • You set the attendance price, making your day highly profitable

 

Disadvantages
  • Requires quite a bit of safety and accessibility, ensure all older people can move around your school safely
  • May exclude some students who do not have grandparents or influential people to attend the day

 

Best For…

Grandparents Day fundraisers are best suited to primary schools or kindergartens.

 

54. Golf Putting Competition

A Gold Putting Competition is one of the most popular fundraising ideas because people of any age can participate! Simply set up a target or hole, and charge people for each attempt at getting it closest to (or in!) the target or hole. Offer a prize for the winner and watch your participants throw their cash to enter your golf putting compeititon!

 

PGA TOUR - Golf fitness

 

One of the best fundraising ideas is a golf putting competition.

Participants of any age can participate in a golf putting competition fundraiser!

 

Advantages
  • Except from your prize, it is a very low cost fundraising idea
  • Easy to organise and run
  • High profit
  • Can be run as an activity at other fundraising events, such as school fete
  • Participants of all ages can participate
  • Multiple entries allowed, meaning people can pay many entry fees!

 

Disadvantages
  • May be difficult to have people attend if it is the only activity
  • People need to supply their own golf equipment
  • Cash handling required
  • Purchase of a prize required – sometimes of substantial value

 

Best For…

This fundraiser is great for any group! It is one of the best fundraising ideas for sports clubs, kindergartens, primary schools, high schools, and more.

 

55. Paint-and-Sip for the Parents!

Paint and Sip classes have become very popular, especially as fundraisers! Encouraging your guests to explore their creative side without the pressure of making a perfect masterpiece has proven to be a great way to raise money for your school or group.

Either run the Paint and Sip class yourself, or hire a professional to host it for you. Either way, have your guests BYO alcohol, and discover your inner Picasso!

 

 

 

Advantages
  • Very popular at the moment
  • Can set a relatively high price point for entry compared to other fundraising ideas
  • Can be partnered with other fundraising ideas such as auctions, raffles, wine sales, food vans and more!
  • Flexible attendee size

 

Disadvantages
  • Requires an up front cost, regardless of whether you hire a professional or organise it yourself
  • Requires an area big enough to host enough attendees to make a profit
  • May not make a high profit depending on attendance, material costs and hire fees
  • Requires lots of organisation
  • Restricted to a set number of attendees

 

Best For…

Groups with an engaged parent base. A Paint and Sip fundraiser is best suited to kindergartens, primary schools, high schools, and sporting clubs.

 

56. Corporate Matching Gifts

Ever thought about doubling your fundraising proceeds with the same effort? Look no further than Corporate Matching Gifts. In this exciting fundraising model, corporations agree to match the amount raised in a fundraiser, effectively doubling your proceeds! This powerful approach encourages greater participation and promotes a sense of community as businesses align with your cause.

 

Advantages
  • Has the potential to double the amount raised.
  • Enhances community engagement by involving local businesses.
  • Encourages larger donations, as individuals know their contributions will be matched.

 

Disadvantages
  • Can be challenging to find corporations willing to match funds.
  • Requires negotiating and confirming agreements with corporations.
  • The matching process may have conditions or limitations that need to be carefully managed.

 

Best For…

Corporate Matching Gifts is ideal for schools and groups that have strong connections with local businesses or corporate sponsors. It can be run as a virtual or in-person fundraiser, depending on the preferred methods of collecting donations. It’s a great opportunity for community engagement and fostering relationships between schools and local enterprises.

 

57. Junk Donations

Ever thought about doubling your fundraising proceeds with the same effort? Look no further than Corporate Matching Gifts. In this exciting fundraising model, corporations agree to match the amount raised in a fundraiser, effectively doubling your proceeds! This powerful approach encourages greater participation and promotes a sense of community as businesses align with your cause.

 

Advantages
  • Has the potential to double the amount raised.
  • Enhances community engagement by involving local businesses.
  • Encourages larger donations, as individuals know their contributions will be matched.

 

Disadvantages
  • Can be challenging to find corporations willing to match funds.
  • Requires negotiating and confirming agreements with corporations.
  • The matching process may have conditions or limitations that need to be carefully managed.

 

Best For…

Corporate Matching Gifts is ideal for schools and groups that have strong connections with local businesses or corporate sponsors. It can be run as a virtual or in-person fundraiser, depending on the preferred methods of collecting donations. It’s a great opportunity for community engagement and fostering relationships between schools and local enterprises.

 

58. Limited Ticket Vehicle Raffle

Shift your fundraising into high gear with the Limited Ticket Vehicle Raffle! This exciting fundraiser involves selling a limited number of tickets for a chance to win a vehicle. It’s a high-stakes game of chance that could drive your fundraising efforts to new heights!

 

Advantages
  • Limited tickets can create exclusivity and urgency, driving sales.
  • Potential for high-profit margins if the vehicle is donated or acquired at a reduced cost.
  • Attracts a wide range of participants due to the high-value prize.

 

Disadvantages
  • Requires substantial upfront investment if the vehicle is not donated.
  • Legal regulations regarding raffles must be carefully considered and followed.
  • May require a larger pool of potential participants to ensure all tickets are sold.

 

Best For…

The Limited Ticket Vehicle Raffle is best for larger schools or groups with a broad community reach. It can be run virtually, with ticket sales and the draw occurring online. This fundraiser is particularly appealing to adults in the community, making it an excellent option for groups with an engaged parent or supporter base.

 

59. Willy Wonka Golden Ticket

Channel the magic of Roald Dahl with a Willy Wonka Golden Ticket event! Participants buy chocolate bars for a chance to win a ‘golden ticket’ prize. It’s a delicious and fun spin on a traditional raffle that is sure to create excitement and anticipation!

 

Advantages
  • Makes fundraising fun and exciting.
  • The prize can be flexible according to your budget.
  • Potential for a good profit margin if the chocolates are sold at a premium.

 

Disadvantages
  • Requires upfront cost for chocolates and prizes.
  • The success highly depends on the value of the ‘golden ticket’ prize.
  • Allergy considerations may need to be taken into account for participants.

 

Best For…

The Willy Wonka Golden Ticket event is a great fit for schools with younger students who are likely to get excited about the chance of finding a golden ticket. This can be either an in-person event or adapted to a virtual format. It’s a delightful way to engage students, teachers, and parents alike.

 

60. Treasure Cupcakes

Get your baking hats on for the Treasure Cupcakes fundraiser! In this tasty event, cupcakes are baked with a small, safe token or item inside. The person who finds the “treasure” wins a prize. This is not only a fundraiser but also a delightful game of luck and sweetness!

 

Advantages
  • Creates fun and excitement with each cupcake.
  • Encourages community participation and can bring people together.
  • The cost of cupcakes can be relatively low, yielding a good profit margin.

 

Disadvantages
  • Requires time and volunteers to bake and sell cupcakes.
  • Allergen and food safety considerations must be taken into account.
  • The “treasure” must be safe and appropriate to be baked into food.

 

Best For…

Treasure Cupcakes is a fantastic idea for schools and groups that enjoy baking and have the capacity to organise a large-scale bake sale. This can be an in-person fundraiser, perfect for a school fair or a community gathering. It’s a tasty way to raise funds while also providing a sweet surprise to your supporters.

 

61. Cutest Pet Contest

Let’s give a round of applause for our furry friends with the Cutest Pet Contest! In this heartwarming fundraiser, participants submit adorable photos of their pets, and votes are cast via donations. This contest not only encourages fun interaction but also facilitates fundraising in a most delightful way.

 

Irish Setter - Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

 

Advantages
  • Encourages community participation and pet-loving camaraderie.
  • Requires minimal upfront costs, especially if done virtually.
  • Can attract wider audiences due to the popularity of pet content.

 

Disadvantages
  • Requires a method of securely collecting and tracking votes/donations.
  • May need a prize for the winner, adding to costs.
  • Requires good promotion to reach potential donors.

 

Best For…

The Cutest Pet Contest is suitable for school groups and communities with a fondness for pets. The contest can be organised virtually, making it accessible to a wide range of participants. It’s a perfect choice for those looking for a fundraising event that’s equally fun, engaging, and potentially viral.

 

62. Penny Wars

Spark a friendly competition with Penny Wars! In this engaging fundraiser, teams or groups compete to collect the most pennies. This is a playful way of fundraising that cultivates team spirit and the joy of giving, one penny at a time.

 

Advantages
  • Encourages healthy competition and team building.
  • Has minimal costs as the primary collection item is small change.
  • Can be extended over a period of time, providing a consistent source of funds.

 

Disadvantages
  • Requires secure collection containers and careful counting.
  • Could be slow to accumulate significant funds due to the low value of pennies.
  • Managing and depositing large amounts of coins can be time-consuming.

 

Best For…

Penny Wars is a great idea for schools, where different classes or grades can compete against each other. It works best as an in-person fundraiser, with collection jars placed in classrooms or common areas. This engaging competition can involve students, teachers, and parents alike, making fundraising a part of daily school life.

 

63. Ghost Tour

Step into the world of the supernatural with a Ghost Tour fundraiser. If your community has a historical or spooky background, you can charge for tickets and provide an engaging tour around local ‘haunted’ places. It’s an eerie yet thrilling way to fundraise!

 

House - Black-and-white

 

Advantages
  • Provides an entertaining and educational experience.
  • Leverages local history and landmarks.
  • Can attract a diverse crowd, from thrill-seekers to history buffs.

 

Disadvantages
  • Requires in-depth knowledge about local history and myths.
  • Weather and safety considerations can impact scheduling.
  • Could have limited appeal to those who are faint-hearted.

 

Best For…

The Ghost Tour is perfect for schools or community groups in areas with rich historical narratives or folklore. It’s an in-person fundraiser that offers an interactive and exciting experience. Ideal for older students and adults, this unique fundraiser can turn local lore into a thrilling adventure for a cause.

 

64. “Famous” Photographers Prints

Showcase local talent with the “Famous” Photographers Prints fundraiser. Collaborate with well-known local photographers who might be willing to donate some of their work for auction. It’s a classy way to appreciate art while raising funds for your cause.

 

Advantages
  • Highlights local talent and creates community ties.
  • Can generate significant funds if prints are highly valued.
  • Provides a lasting physical item for donors.

 

Disadvantages
  • Requires photographers willing to donate their work.
  • Setting up an auction can be time-consuming and require volunteers.
  • Valuing and pricing artwork can be challenging.

 

Best For…

“Famous” Photographers Prints is a great choice for schools or community groups in areas with a thriving local art scene. This fundraiser can be organised as a live in-person auction, a silent auction, or even adapted to an online format. It’s a sophisticated choice that can attract art lovers and supporters within and beyond your immediate community.

 

65. Lego Night

Unleash the joy of creativity with a Lego Night! In this engaging event, an entrance fee grants attendees access to a playful evening filled with Lego-based challenges and games. It’s a delightful way to bring the community together, fostering imaginative fun while raising funds.

 

Stock photography - Learning

 

Advantages
  • Encourages creativity and problem-solving in a fun environment.
  • Appeals to a wide age range, from kids to adults.
  • Can generate additional revenue through the sale of snacks and drinks.

 

Disadvantages
  • Requires a large supply of Lego bricks, which could be costly.
  • Needs space and proper organisation to prevent lost pieces or mishaps.
  • Needs volunteers to create and supervise challenges.

 

Best For…

Lego Night is an excellent choice for schools or parent-teacher groups, particularly those with a younger audience. This event is ideally held in person, offering a hands-on, interactive experience that kids and Lego enthusiasts won’t want to miss. It’s a playful fundraiser that couples fun with imagination, all for a good cause.

 

66. Dinner Party Auction

Delight the foodies in your community with a Dinner Party Auction. In this unique event, the prizes up for auction are various themed dinner parties, like a “Mediterranean Night” or a “French Cuisine Evening”, hosted by volunteers at their homes.

 

Ocean Casino Resort - Nightclub

 

Advantages
  • Offers a unique auction item that can attract high bids.
  • Showcases the culinary skills of community members.
  • Provides a memorable, personal experience for winners.
Disadvantages
  • Requires hosts willing to open their homes and prepare a meal.
  • Scheduling and dietary restrictions could pose challenges.
  • May require additional resources for promotional material to describe each dinner.

 

Best For…

A Dinner Party Auction is best for adult community groups, parent-teacher associations, or school organisations. This fundraiser is conducted in-person, offering a rich, sensory experience. It’s a tantalising way to fundraise, bringing people together over good food for a great cause.

 

67. Polar Bear Plunge

Take the plunge with the Polar Bear Plunge! In colder climates, this fundraiser involves charging brave participants to take a mid-winter dip. It’s an exhilarating way to energise your community and generate funds.

 

Stock photography - Winter swimming

 

Advantages
  • Provides a unique, adrenaline-pumping activity.
  • Can attract media attention due to its unusual nature.
  • Potential for additional fundraising through merchandise sales.
Disadvantages
  • Requires stringent safety measures and potentially professional lifeguards.
  • Weather-dependent and seasonally limited.
  • May not appeal to everyone due to its extreme nature.

 

Best For…

The Polar Bear Plunge is great for school or community groups in cold climates looking for a bold, out-of-the-box fundraiser. This in-person event attracts the adventurous and the supportive spectators alike. It’s a daring choice that’ll ensure your fundraiser is talked about long after the ice has thawed!

 

68. World Record Attempt Party

Make history with the World Record Attempt Party! Rally your community to break a world record, charging for participation or viewing. Not only is it a fantastic way to unite everyone towards a common goal, but it also creates a potential headline-grabbing event.

 

Advantages
  • Provides a unique, engaging community experience.
  • Potential for significant media attention.
  • Can attract a large number of participants and spectators.
Disadvantages
  • Requires careful planning and adherence to record attempt rules.
  • Some records might need professional adjudicators present.
  • Logistical challenges could arise with large-scale events.
Best For…

A World Record Attempt Party is an excellent choice for schools, community groups, or larger organisations. This in-person event provides a thrilling, communal experience. If your community is full of ambitious individuals ready to rise to a challenge, this could be the electrifying fundraising event you’re looking for.

 

69. Themed Cookbook

Create a flavour-filled journey with a Themed Cookbook! By collecting recipes from community members that revolve around a particular theme, you can compile them into a delightful cookbook. This beautifully curated culinary tome can then be sold to raise funds.

 

Advantages
  • Engages community members by inviting them to share their favourite recipes.
  • Can be sold multiple times, providing continuous revenue.
  • A keepsake item that offers value beyond fundraising.
Disadvantages
  • Requires time and resources to collect recipes, design, and print the book.
  • Needs an engaging theme to attract enough interest.
  • Digital cookbooks might not have the same appeal as printed ones.
Best For…

This fundraising idea is best for schools, parent groups, or any community-oriented organisation. The Themed Cookbook could be created and sold either in-person or online, making it a versatile choice. The more diverse your community, the richer the variety of recipes – and the more appealing the cookbook becomes!

 

70. Pet Calendar

Celebrate your community’s furry friends with a Pet Calendar! By holding a photo contest for pet owners and creating a calendar from the winning pictures, you’ll create a lovable keepsake that supporters will be eager to buy.

 

Advantages
  • Engages pet owners in the community and promotes friendly competition.
  • Provides a practical item that can be sold year-round.
  • High-quality photos can create a memorable and desirable product.
Disadvantages
  • Requires effort to collect, judge, and organise the photos.
  • Printing and distribution costs could impact total funds raised.
  • Calendar sales might diminish as the year progresses.

 

Best For…

The Pet Calendar fundraiser is suitable for schools, animal-related organisations, or any community group with a significant number of pet lovers. This in-person or online fundraising event encourages participation and offers a charming, year-long reminder of your fundraiser.

 

71. Social Media Challenge

Tap into the power of virality with a Social Media Challenge! These fundraisers draw attention to your cause by launching a fun and engaging challenge on social media platforms. The thrill of a viral challenge can lead to widespread exposure and increased donations.

 

Advantages
  • Can reach a large audience quickly if the challenge goes viral.
  • Low cost with potential for high returns.
  • Engages a younger, digital-savvy audience.
Disadvantages
  • Requires a unique and exciting challenge to catch on.
  • Risk of the challenge fizzling out if not enough people participate.
  • Relies heavily on the unpredictable nature of viral content.

 

Best For…

A Social Media Challenge is best suited for schools, youth-focused organisations, or any group comfortable with online engagement. This is a purely virtual fundraiser, targeting digital natives who are always ready to participate in the next big social media trend.

 

72. Buy-a-Brick

Build support—literally—with the Buy-a-Brick fundraiser! Supporters can purchase a brick to help build or maintain a structure. Their names or short messages are then inscribed on the bricks, leaving a lasting mark of their contribution.

 

Advantages
  • Gives supporters a tangible, lasting way to show their contribution.
  • Flexible in scale—can fund small projects or large construction efforts.
  • Can bring in significant funds if the project resonates with the community.
Disadvantages
  • Requires a suitable project that involves brickwork.
  • Might have slow progress if the fundraising goal is high.
  • Engraving bricks could add to the project cost.

 

Best For…

Buy-a-Brick is ideal for schools, community centres, or any organisation with a permanent base looking for funding for infrastructure projects. This in-person fundraiser gives supporters a lasting stake in your project, strengthening community bonds while meeting fundraising goals.

 

73. Community Clean Up Day

Boost civic pride and environmental responsibility with a Community Clean Up Day! Volunteers can ‘sponsor’ a particular area to clean up, asking friends, family, and businesses to pledge a certain amount for every pound of trash they pick up.

 

Public domain - Image

 

Advantages
  • Encourages community engagement and environmental awareness.
  • Low cost and easily organised.
  • Can generate media interest and community goodwill.
Disadvantages
  • Requires adequate planning for trash collection and disposal.
  • Dependence on volunteer participation and commitment.
  • Weather-dependent, it might need rescheduling in case of inclement conditions.

 

Best For…

Community Clean Up Day is best for schools, environmental clubs, or any community-focused group looking to make a positive impact while fundraising. This in-person event unites community members for a worthy cause, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment while generating much-needed funds.

 

74. Birthday fundraisers

Using birthdays as a means to raise funds for charity has proven to be a heartwarming and effective approach that combines celebration with a meaningful cause. Ultimately, using birthdays as a platform for fundraising creates a ripple effect of compassion and kindness that transcends borders and touches the lives of those less fortunate, bringing a profound sense of joy and purpose to the special day.

 

Advantages
  • Friends and family are more likely to engage and support a cause that holds significance to someone they care about.
  • Social media allows birthday fundraisers to reach a broad audience, including friends, acquaintances
  • It can generate a collective impact that can significantly boost the funds raised for the charity.
  • Year-round potential if multiple people are raising funds
Disadvantages
  • The success of a birthday fundraiser heavily relies on the visibility it receives on social media platforms.
  • Not everyone within the birthday celebrant’s network may share the same passion for the chosen charity or cause.
  • Birthday fundraisers are typically most active around the celebrant’s actual birthday, which means there’s a limited timeframe for raising funds.

 

75. Designer Clothes Sale

Whether you’re seeking to revamp your wardrobe or make a difference in the world, a designer clothes sale for fundraising embodies the true essence of compassion, style, and making a meaningful impact through the simple act of shopping. Most people have a designer piece of clothing, shoes or handbag that they no longer use or does not fit anymore. This is a great way of putting that piece to good use and raising funds along the way.

 

Advantages
  • Higher fundraising potential if the right pieces can be sourced
  • Win win for donors as they get something for their donation/purchase
  • Promoting sustainable fashion advocacy
Disadvantages
  • Limited accessibility as not everyone may have a piece to donate or not everyone can afford the price they are being sold at
  • Handling valuable merchandise, ensuring authenticity, and managing security during the event

 

The Bottom Line

A myriad of fundraising ideas are available for you and your group to choose from. The best fundraiser should help raise money for your school, club or group with as little effort, planning and organisation as possible. So choose wisely, plan thoroughly and have fun at your next fundraising event!

 

May 31, 2020

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