.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=icon}
.svg){kind=icon}
.svg){kind=icon}
.svg){kind=icon}
.svg){kind=icon}
.svg){kind=icon}
.svg){kind=icon}
.svg){kind=icon}
.svg){kind=icon}
.svg){kind=icon}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
Cheap fundraising ideas
Making an impact doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Changemakers looking to raise funds without burning a hole in their pockets can choose from hundreds of inexpensive fundraising ideas. This list of lower-cost and free fundraising ideas will help you reach your goal without breaking the bank.
%201.png)
%201.png)
Spooky bake sale
Decorate cookies and other treats with Halloween flair and sell them at a fall festival or community gathering. Or, make the bake sale the main event!
.png)
.png)
Slide into DMs
Few things beat a personalized, one-on-one request. Send direct messages to thank your supporters and link to your donation form or fundraising campaign.
.png)
.png)
Video challenge
Launch a video challenge that invites followers to do something fun, challenging, or unexpected. Have them share their videos on social media and tag their friends.
Trending hashtag
Keep an eye out for trending hashtags to join the conversation and introduce your cause to new audiences. Just be sure to find a clear way to connect the trend back to your mission.
Tag 3
Ask donors to tag three friends when they give. This fun, no-cost challenge turns every donation into an instant ripple effect, sparking new connections and spreading your campaign further.
Team mission trip fundraiser
.png)
.png)
Jump-a-thon
Organize a jump-a-thon where participants collect pledges for every jump—or every minute they keep jumping. It’s a fun, high-energy way to raise money while fostering community and a little friendly competition.
.png)
.png)
Animal allies
Encourage recurring donors by launching an animal ally monthly giving program. Your monthly supporters will receive exclusive updates about the animals their money is helping, plus access to special events and volunteer opportunities.
.png)
.png)
Jog-a-thon
Host a family friendly jog-a-thon at your local running track. Participants can collect pledges for the number of laps they jog, walk, or run. Recruit volunteers to tally the number of laps each participant completes.
.png)
.png)
Dance taster class
.png)
.png)
Elect an animal
Nominate some of the animals in your care to be “election candidates.” Create fundraising pages for the nominees and have supporters cast their vote by donating. Be sure to spotlight each animal’s story and how your organization has helped them thrive.
The winning animal receives some extra treats—and social media recognition!
.png)
Dance workshop
.png)
.png)
Fix the felines
Launch a trap-neuter-return fundraising campaign to help reduce the number of stray cats and kittens in your community.
Make your fundraising goal visible with a fundraising thermometer, so supporters can see how their contributions are moving you one step closer to your goal.
.png)
.png)
Zookeeper
Create individual pages for the animals you care for and invite your supporters to donate to become a “Zookeeper” for a group or specific animal. Zookeepers receive regular updates on their animals and special access to events and volunteer opportunities.
.png)
.png)
Pet portraits
Pet owners love having portraits of their pets—even if they’re not made by professionals! Host a fun pet portrait fundraiser where volunteers draw or paint pictures of supporters’ furry friends. Ask donors to bring a photo of their pet or upload one when they make a donation online.
.png)
Camp experience auction
Auction off camp spots, exclusive experiences, or premium camp gear to the highest bidders. This event builds excitement and encourages friendly competition while raising funds for beloved camp programs.
.png)
.png)
Movement challenge
Go solo or form a team to complete a chosen movement challenge in support of your cause. Great for health-related organizations or any group that wants to raise funds through physical activity.
.png)
.png)
Raise for rescues
Create a giving day or online fundraising campaign to raise awareness for your shelter program. Share photos and stories that highlight your impact and offer multiple giving levels so everyone can take part in making a difference.
.png)
Marathon
A marathon is a classic fun run fundraising event—perfect for your most ambitious supporters! You can host your own fundraising event, or give supporters the resources they need to raise money for your organization by running in an existing race.
.png)
Singing telegram
Cutest pet contest
Church trivia nights
Want to reach an even bigger audience? Go hybrid or virtual so everyone can join in on the fun!
Sponsor my uniform fundraiser
Create a fun, easy sponsorship form so players can rally support from friends and family to help cover uniform costs——because looking sharp on the field starts with a little team spirit (and a lot of love from your biggest fans).
More money, no problems
Instead of hosting an event, ask your supporters to donate a specific amount for the entire year. Create a donation form or fundraising page with photos, videos, and a compelling story in order to encourage gifts. Be sure to customize your donation amounts and add descriptions that are specific to your needs and impact.
.png)
Lend a helping hand
In order to streamline the process and keep track of contributions, create custom labels for different donation amounts on a special fundraising page or donation form (e.g. $50 = 2 volunteer hours).
.png){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
Get top features for your next fundraiser
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
Frequently asked questions
What is the most affordable fundraising idea?
The most affordable, low-cost fundraising ideas typically utilize existing resources and free tools. Many nonprofits launch online fundraising campaigns with free fundraising software or organize events with low overhead, such as car washes, bake sales, or virtual talent shows in which participants donate their time and artistry for the cause.
Is there a free fundraising platform?
Yes! Givebutter is an all-in-one fundraising platform that is completely free to use. Unlike other fundraising websites, Givebutter pricing doesn’t include hefty subscriptions or hidden fees. Instead, it’s funded by optional tips from donors.
How do I start a free fundraiser?
If you want to start a free fundraiser, the best tool you can use is an online fundraising page where you can easily collect donations and spread the word about your efforts.
It takes just a few minutes to create a free Givebutter account and launch any campaign, whether it’s a donation form, a peer-to-peer fundraiser, or a livestream event. Plus, don’t forget to take advantage of Givebutter’s full suite of CRM and engagement tools to streamline your efforts for fundraising that’s free and easy.
%201.png)
Subscribe to
The Butter Brief
Get fundraising ideas, tips, and free resources right in your inbox
Givebutter helps you turn ideas into impact
.webp)
Subscribe to
The Butter Brief
Get fundraising ideas, tips, and free resources right in your inbox
The most-loved fundraising platform
.png)
%201.png)
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
%201.webp){kind=icon}