Nonprofit fundraising ideas
Used book sale
Movie marathon
Enjoy a better experience with engaging event ticketing options, such as online and in-person ticket sales and app-powered check-ins.
Costumed car wash
Create a smooth experience for all with fundraising pages that include easy in-person payments and a range of giving options.
Telethon
Golf tournament
Check out our guide to discover how to make your next golf tournament even more profitable.
Virtual bake sale
Street painting competition
Ask a local business to donate painting supplies, and then invite the community to vote for the best-painted square by making a donation ($1 = 1 vote) with an easy scan-to-donate QR code.
Envelope fundraiser
Spread the word with easy email marketing software. Share the details of your campaign and send reminders as the deadline gets closer.
Virtual scavenger hunt
Virtual concert
Make sure to feature a donation thermometer on your page to encourage viewers to make extra donations and get you closer to your goal as they enjoy the music.
Spa crawl
Cupcake wars
Oozeball tourney
Improv night
Networking night
Karaoke night
To encourage even more donations during the party, display mobile giving options and your progress toward your goal using live display.
Virtual auction
Use auction software that makes the bidding process smooth and simple for you and your donors.
Pet therapy
Charge an entry fee and sell inexpensive extras like dog and cat treats. Be sure to offer multiple ways to purchase treats in-person like scan-to-donate and Venmo!
Pancake breakfast
Count the jellybeans
Reverse raffle
Before you start planning, be sure to check for any state regulations on raffles where you live!
Meditation retreat
Customize tickets for this fundraising event to collect needed information from registrants, such as dietary restrictions.
Desk decorating contest
Mystery art show
Charge an entrance fee and invite supporters to purchase pieces all at the same price—without knowing who their artist is until the end of the event!
Secret supper
Frequently asked questions
How do I raise money for my nonprofit?
Many valuable funding sources are available for your nonprofit, including foundations, corporate sponsors, and major donors. Our favorite strategy, however, is more grassroots: fundraising campaigns and events that rally community support for your cause, like the ideas shared on this page.
New to fundraising? Learn how to start a fundraiser with step-by-step guidance and even more inspiration.
Which ideas for nonprofit fundraising are the easiest?
When it comes to easy fundraising ideas for nonprofit organizations, it all depends on your resources, time constraints, and how much you need to raise. One tip is to incorporate your fundraising efforts into pre-existing events, like partnering with a local team to promote your text-to-donate campaign at their next big game.
Pro tip: Offering mobile-friendly payment options makes the entire process easier for youandyour donors.
What are the most profitable nonprofit fundraising ideas?
Some of the highest-raising charity fundraising ideas put the focus—and goal—on a specific day or moment, like Giving Tuesday or an annual benefit auction. Auctions with high-ticket items and campaigns with incentives like matching gifts can also bring in large donations for a more successful fundraiser.
How can I raise money for my nonprofit fast?
When you need results fast, consider setting up an online fundraiser that includes a social media challenge or some friendly competition. With a peer-to-peer campaign, your supporters can create their own donation pages and spread the word online, building momentum toward your collective fundraising goal.
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