Fundraising ideas for individuals on behalf of nonprofits
Whether you’re a passionate individual supporter or a nonprofit organization eager to engage more people in your fundraising efforts, we’ve pulled together a slew of individual fundraising ideas that are sure to make an impact.
From birthday donations and crowdfunding campaigns to baked goods sales and social media challenges, this list of easy fundraising ideas for individuals will help you find the inspiration you need to start raising funds for your favorite organization.
Virtual bake sale
Tree planting day
Holiday wreath sale
Apple bobbing
Raise the roof
Embed a donation form on your website with a live goal bar, so your community members can see just how close you are to hitting that target.
TikTok dance-off
For easy and simple sharing, create a custom donation form that’s optimized for mobile!
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).
Comedy roast
Bail out the pastor
Create excitement by displaying a live goal bar on your fundraising page so supporters can watch the total rise in real time.
Virtual fun run
Desk decorating contest
Rent your space
Spread the word that your space is available for rent with your email marketing software. Don’t forget to include photos of the space to encourage interest!
Movie night
Use Givebutter’s fundraising event tools like online ticket sales, mobile app check-ins, and in-person payments to make it easier for you and your supporters.
Youth lock-in
Set up an online fundraising event page where participants can register and supporters can make donations.
Pajama day
Refer a friend
Home decor workshop
Shave for the cause
Donut fundraiser
Create a fundraising page or donation form to promote your efforts and make it easier to sell your sweet treats with multiple payment options wherever you are.
Skate-a-thon
Leading up to your event, encourage your participants to create their own peer-to-peer fundraising pages, which they can personalize with their own stories and updates.
Fitness class
Virtual food/wine tasting
One-day giving event
Keep your supporters invested in your progress with a goal bar and campaign updates that highlight milestones, matching gifts, and special shout-outs throughout the day.
Restaurant takeover
Frequently asked questions
How can I raise money individually?
When it comes to raising funds solo, there are plenty of effective personal fundraising ideas that don't require the support of a large team or organization. Once you choose a nonprofit you want to support, take advantage of online fundraising by creating a personal fundraising page, asking friends and family to contribute to your donation page in lieu of gifts on your birthday, or even running a race and asking for small donations.
How do I ask for donations?
There are numerous ways to ask for donations, but be sure to keep a few best practices to keep in mind. Instead of sending generic messages, personalize your outreach to each potential donor. Share why the cause is meaningful to you and how their contribution can truly make a difference. And don't forget to express genuine gratitude for their support, no matter the size of their donation.
How can I fundraise a lot of money fast?
While birthday donations and crowdfunding are classic single-person fundraising ideas, larger-scale fundraising campaigns and events are more likely to bring in higher donations with greater speed. Whether you charge an entry fee for a concert, ask local businesses to sponsor a car wash, or sell tickets for a block party, exciting events have the potential to attract a large audience and help you reach your fundraising goal more quickly.
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