Fundraising is a vital part of running a not-for-profit and often one of the most difficult factors to manage. We’ve talked before about the steps of developing a fundraising strategy, but when it comes down to it, choosing a method to suit your particular charity can be confusing. With so many NFPs competing for donors, you need to think outside the box for fundraising ideas and how to get attention to your cause.

Here are a few ideas to keep your fundraising efforts fresh and cost-effective.

Affinity Fundraising

Creating affinity groups means to find people who have something in common with each other that will help create a community of support. For example a young professionals group, or people who live in a certain area.

Affinity groups grow virally because the members reach out to others with the same interests and invite them to join. Not only does the group connection create a closer bond with your NFP, but it also benefits the members by offering a community of like-minded individuals. People in this group will have a personal relationship with the organisation they are supporting, and a circle of friends to enjoy fundraising with.

Super Events

A fundraiser with a host that draws people in can be a great single event, but you can increase the effect by multiplying the number of hosts and holding a super event.

Recruiting several hosts for a single event with a central theme, means concentrating your efforts on one night rather than spreading them out. It may sound like more work, but the human resources needed to plan one event is often less than working with each host individually.

The rewards are often higher as a larger event creates more buzz and attracts a larger crowd.

Have Some Fun

People love to have fun, and an entertaining night makes a lasting impression. You could have a regular monthly event or plan a one-off affair; the possibilities are endless.

Hold a talent show. You can charge an admission fee, concessions, and have the audience vote for their favourites with their donations. Hold auditions and rehearsals so you have a show worth their money.

Plan a trivia night. Hold it in a bar or restaurant that is willing to donate a percentage of the proceeds that night. Trivia questions can include information about your NFP and the cause you are fighting for.

Organise a bingo basket raffle. Charge admission that comes with a set number of cards, then sell extras. Have local businesses donate prizes for the baskets.

Once you have created a successful event, you will have people asking when the next planned function will be held. It’s a sure-fire way to increase your funds and attract attention. Getting people talking about your charity efforts, after all, is what it is all about.