Making money and securing donors is one of the most important functions that you have. If you don’t take the time to market your fundraising event, how will people know even to attend? And if they don’t attend, how will you raise enough money to carry out your nonprofit’s mission?

Here are some innovative fundraising strategies which you can put in place to ensure that you have bums on seats and an overflowing cash box.

Encourage Sponsors

Encouraging sponsors to support your event will help your promote your cause many times over. Not only does sponsorship give your fundraiser an air of professionalism, but it also will help you attract a wider range of attendees. Always be transparent with your sponsors from the get-go, what you require of them. And don’t forget to thank you for their kindness, generosity and support when all is said and done.

Create a Line of Suitable Merchandise

While you may run a nonprofit, it doesn’t mean that you cannot design and sell merchandise to help your charity raise money. It will not only raise brand awareness, but it will also generate extra revenue for your NFP. You can also use your merchandise to advertise your next event. You may wish to consider adding sponsorship logos to your merchandise as a unique way of saying thank you for their support.

Highlight Your Big Ticket Items

Why should people come to your event? What is the draw card? Is it a well-known band or a local market? Market the aspects that will bring the most people to your event. While your fundraiser is an event in itself, your audience might be more interested in the fact that there is a silent auction or another fun event that they can participate in. Market it wide and market it well.

Strategise The Follow-Up

Saying thank you to your donors and supporters is one of the most important things you can do. It will demonstrate your appreciate and will help increase your donor retention. You can even send them a survey, so you can learn where you can improve and work towards an even better event in the future. You can thank your donors via email, a thank you package or even via a thank you call.