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Effective fundraising efforts all start with a good idea. Luckily for you, we’ve compiled a list of the best.
Here at ABC Fundraising®, we’ve helped more than 50,000 schools, churches, nonprofits, youth groups, sports clubs, fraternities, colleges, and countless other types of fundraising organizations raise a collective $50 million. We carefully hand-pick each of our fundraising ideas, and only the most profitable campaigns make it through our selection process.
Thus, we’ve put together one of the most comprehensive lists of unique and profitable fundraising ideas on the internet to help you raise money for your cause—whatever it is. Because with more than 70 years of combined fundraising experience on our side, we know which fundraising ideas work.
Whether you’re looking for a top fundraising idea for a school, church, nonprofit, club, or individual, our list of easy and effective fundraising ideas is sure to have the right fundraiser for you. We’ve conveniently divided our 65+ top ideas into the following categories that you can use to explore:
Below you will find our top fundraising ideas that have helped groups like yours raise millions of dollars with ease. Are you ready to dive into each of these unique and powerful campaigns? Let’s get started!
With so many possible fundraising ideas at your fingertips, it can be difficult to decide which ones will be the most successful for your organization. These are our three favorite fundraising ideas that we hope can encourage and inspire your fundraising research and planning processes:
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $7,100
Cost To Get Started? $500
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Schools, Churches, Nonprofits
Popularity: √√√√√
One of the best and easiest ideas for fundraising we’ve come across is the discount card fundraiser. Our ABC Fundraising® discount card fundraiser offers up to 93% profit, and it’s a great way for your group to offer a very valuable product to your friends, family, and supporters.
Here’s how it works:
Rather than purchasing products that they may not need, your friends, family, and neighbors can help your group raise a ton of money by purchasing a discount card to use at local businesses.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $700
Cost To Get Started? $25
Who is it for? Churches, Youth Sports, Nonprofits
Popularity: √√
A silent auction puts a fun spin on a classic charity auction fundraiser, and it’s a great way to raise awareness, garner necessary support, and bring in critical funding for your cause.
Here’s how it works:
Unique and highly demanded goods and services such as technology, experiences, memorabilia, etc. can all make for fantastic auction items. Plus, it’s an engaging event that your supporters will love to partake in!
Product fundraisers are often top choices for schools, clubs, and other fundraising organizations. These impactful campaigns have the potential to raise a ton of money for your cause. The first step to getting started is choosing your product to sell. At ABC Fundraising, we suggest the following:
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $3200
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Churches, Youth Sports, Nonprofits, High Schools
Popularity: √√√√√
The Scratch & Help® Fundraiser has been our longest-running fundraising program, created in 1993, and it’s helped all sorts of fundraising organizations raise a ton of money very quickly.
Here’s how it works:
With up to 90% profit and no money upfront, you can easily see why this fundraiser has been so successful year after year. You can even request a free fundraising sample to see our fundraising scratch cards in action before committing!
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $7,700
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, High Schools, Church Youth Groups
Popularity: √√√√
The Spinners® Fundraising Program is the world’s first reusable fundraiser and is by far one of the most profitable fundraiser programs on the market today. This unique idea for fundraising helps the average individual group member earn $210 with no money upfront needed.
Here’s how it works:
Spinners® are made of high-quality plastic, similar to a DVD case, and won’t wear down, melt or fade. Since you can reuse the same Spinners® year after year, this will make your future fundraising events even more profitable than your first.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $3,100
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Schools, Churches, Nonprofits
Popularity: √√√√
The ABC Fundraising® Flower Bulb Fundraiser is one of our longest-running fundraisers, and it seems that groups keep coming back to it year after year. After all, who doesn’t love flowers?
Here’s how it works:
Even better, these flower bulbs are guaranteed to grow. If for some reason one doesn’t, we’ll send a replacement to that supporter. With up to 70% Profit and no money required upfront, the ABC Fundraising® Flower Bulb Fundraiser is sure to be a success. Try hosting this fundraiser around Easter for some extra springtime fun!
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $4,200
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, High Schools, Churches, Nonprofits
Popularity: √√
With over 50 years of success, Entertainment® is taking fundraising into the future with the Entertainment® Digital Savings Membership Fundraiser.
Here’s how it works:
Do you remember the Entertainment® Coupon Book? If you’ve been in the fundraising space for a while, you probably do: it’s the most successful coupon book ever created! Groups raise millions each year selling Entertainment® books, even though the coupons are only good in one geographic area. That means if Grandma wanted the coupon book for Miami, and your group was selling the book in New York, you’d lose out on that sale. Well, those days are officially over!
The Entertainment® Digital Savings Membership is like having every Entertainment® book in the country all in one place. This is the perfect fundraising idea for groups who have members spread out throughout the country because you can sell the memberships to anyone, anywhere in the U.S. or Canada.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $4,000
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Middle Schools, Churches, Nonprofits
Popularity: √√√
The ABC Fundraising® Custom Travel Mug Fundraiser is one of our newest fundraisers. This is a great fundraising idea for sports teams and schools that have a logo that they want to showcase on the mugs and tumblers.
Here’s how it works:
In areas that have a lot of school and team spirit, these mugs are a great seller! With up to 75% profit and no money upfront needed, this fun fundraiser can help any organization raise money effectively.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,100
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Elementary Schools, Churches, Nonprofits
Popularity: √√√
Do your supporters like pizza? Of course they do! So provide them with a fantastic perk of supporting your organization that they’ll be able to use time and time again: a pizza card!
Here’s how it works:
With the ABC Fundraising® Papa John’s Pizza Card Fundraiser, you can earn up to 80% profit. If you’ve ever considered fundraising with a pizza card, now is the best time to start your fundraiser and encourage your supporters to enjoy their favorite cheesy meal.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $3,100
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Schools, Churches, Nonprofits
Popularity: √√√√
A candle fundraiser can be a fast and easy way to raise money for just about any cause. Most people like the warmth and personal style that candles add to their homes, so why not offer them the opportunity to buy something they already want and support your group?
Here’s how it works:
ABC Fundraising’s candles have 100% lead-free wicks, are made of 100% food-grade wax and boast an extra-long burn time. There is also a nice variety of sizes, colors, scents, shapes, and price points so that your friends and family have a lot of options when they support your candle fundraiser.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,100
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Schools, Cheerleaders
Popularity: √√
This flip-flop fundraiser is perfect for schools and other fundraising groups with a lot of team spirit where you can encourage supporters to represent their favorite group by purchasing a pair of flip flops or slides.
Here’s how it works:
With a profit margin as high as 70% and no money needed upfront, The ABC Fundraising® custom flip-flop fundraiser is sure to be a winner.
Who doesn’t love food? From popcorn to candy bars and more, these unique food fundraisers can bring in significant fundraising dollars for your cause. These are some of the most popular food fundraising ideas that we’ve seen:
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $2,700
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, High Schools, Church Youth Groups
Popularity: √√√√
The ABC Fundraising® Cookie Dough Fundraiser offers up to an amazing 80% profit and there is absolutely no risk involved to start this fundraiser. Talk about raising a lot of dough!
Here’s how it works:
The Crazy About Cookies® Cookie Dough we provide for your fundraiser is the best tasting cookie dough out there. We tried half a dozen other cookie dough companies and settled on Crazy About Cookies® for the great taste and variety they provide. You and your supporters will love it!
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,700
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Schools, Churches, Nonprofits
Popularity: √√√√
Everyone is familiar with the famous soft baked pretzels from Auntie Anne’s® Pretzels. They have stores in malls throughout the United States, and it’s tough not to buy one of those delicious pretzels when you walk by and smell the delicious buttery smells that come from their storefront.
That’s why ABC Fundraising® has partnered with Auntie Anne’s® to bring you one of the most popular fundraisers available today!
Here’s how it works:
You can earn up to 80% profit with the popular Auntie Anne’s® Pretzel Fundraiser, plus, now included in the Auntie Anne’s® Pretzel Fundraiser is Cinnabon® for folks who are craving a sweeter flavor than a pretzel.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $2,100
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Youth Sports Teams, Schools, Churches, Nonprofits
Popularity: √√√
The Gourmet Popcorn Fundraiser from ABC Fundraising® is a fast and easy way to raise money for your school, church, youth sports team, or nonprofit organization. With up to 70% profit and no money needed upfront, this fundraiser has quickly become one of our most popular fundraisers.
Here’s how it works:
You only pay the wholesale price and keep the rest of the money you raised for your group. Once you receive your popcorn bags, simply hand them out to everyone who ordered them and enjoy the profits from this easy fundraising idea.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $2,300
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Schools, Churches, Nonprofits
Popularity: √√
The ABC Fundraising® Gourmet Coffee Fundraiser is a recent addition to our growing list of easy fundraising ideas. With up to 71% profit and no money upfront needed to start, schools, churches, and youth leagues have been raising thousands of dollars with this no-risk fundraising idea.
Here’s how it works:
This is a creative and unique fundraising idea that is sure to raise a lot of money for your group. You get to raise money for your organization, while your supporters will get a much-needed caffeine boost!
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $600
Cost To Get Started? $300
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Schools, Churches, Nonprofits
Popularity: √
One of the most traditional fundraising ideas we have is The ABC Fundraising® Lollipop Fundraiser, which will earn you a 50% profit for your cause.
Here’s how it works:
A lollipop fundraiser is a popular fundraising idea for elementary schools with young children. While it isn’t one of our most high-profit fundraisers, it is a nice, simple fundraising idea, and parents seem to love it as well.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $500
Cost To Get Started? $250
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Schools, Churches
Popularity: √√
ABC Fundraising® has teamed up with Hi-Chew® to bring you a tasty and profitable candy fundraiser for your group.
Here’s how it works:
Hi-Chew® is one of the fastest-growing candy brands in the U.S., and when people taste the incredible flavors of a Hi-Chew® candy, they come back for more. With this fun (and delicious) fundraiser, your group can earn up to 75% profit.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $700
Cost To Get Started? $350
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Elementary Schools, Churches
Popularity: √√
Another classic fundraising idea is the tried and true chocolate bar fundraiser.
The ABC Fundraising® Chocolate Bar Fundraiser offers two different types of chocolate bars to choose from at different price points: $1 or $2. We usually recommend that groups go with the $2 chocolate bars because they are more profitable.
Here’s how it works:
Each box contains an assortment of milk chocolate, dark chocolate, almond, caramel, and crispy rice bars. That means you’ll easily have something for all types of chocolate lovers!
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $600
Cost To Get Started? $350
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Schools, Churches
Popularity: √√
Of all the fundraising ideas you’ll find from ABC Fundraising®, the cotton candy fundraiser may be the most unique and tasty idea we have to offer. If you’re thinking of doing a candy fundraiser this year, be sure to consider cotton candy: a true American classic.
Here’s how it works:
It’s also a great idea to hold a cotton candy fundraiser alongside a carnival or a fair. After all, cotton candy is a great seller at these types of fundraising events.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $800
Cost To Get Started? $400
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Schools, Churches
Popularity: √√√
In the same vein as the classic Chocolate Bar Fundraiser comes a brand new fundraising idea called the pretzel rod fundraiser. Our high-quality pretzel rods have been dipped in chocolate and covered in delicious sweets.
Here’s how it works:
There are four great flavors in each carrying case: chocolate chunk, rainbow sprinkles, peanut butter candy crunch, and crunchy toffee.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $400
Cost To Get Started? $200
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Schools, Churches
Popularity: √√√
ABC Fundraising® has recently teamed up with Haribo®, the original creators of the classic gummy bears, to bring you one of the highest profit candy fundraisers you’ll find.
Here’s how it works:
With up to 75% profit, this candy fundraising idea is a true winner and a unique fundraising idea to boot. Each pack sells for only 75¢ each, meaning many people will buy 5 or 10 packs at a time. Plus, you’ll find the original five flavors in each pack of gummy bears: raspberry, orange, lemon, pineapple, and strawberry!
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $600
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Schools, Churches
Popularity: √√√
The ABC Fundraising® Beef Jerky Fundraiser is a great (and healthy!) fundraising option. Plus, it’s a delicious way to raise money for just about any cause.
Here’s how it works:
For decades, beef jerky has been a popular and healthy treat and is sure to be a true winner as a fundraiser. At ABC Fundraising®, our beef jerky is hormone-free, grass-fed, high in protein, and contains no MSG, preservatives, or nitrites. We offer five delicious flavors as well: original pepper, orange teriyaki, sweet & spicy, heatwave, and barbecue mesquite.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $800
Cost To Get Started? $400
Who is it for? Youth Sports Groups, Schools, Churches
Popularity: √√√
Are you looking for an extra special fundraising idea? Try our famous fortune cookies with inspirational and encouraging fortunes inside.
Here’s how it works:
You can get started with a large variety pack with four delicious flavors. No one can resist the fun involved in opening a fortune cookie and seeing what their fate will involve! Each case contains 24o gourmet chocolate-dipped fortune cookies, which are divided into four take-out boxes for easy selling.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $7,700
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Youth Sports, High Schools, Middle Schools, Churches
Popularity: √√√
The ABC Fundraising® High-Profit Snack Fundraiser is a fun and easy way for groups to raise money. With up to 70% profit & no money upfront needed, this fundraiser is great for schools, churches, youth groups, and nonprofits with as little as 10 members.
Here’s how it works:
This fundraiser has a low minimum order size of only 50 items, so practically any group can take advantage of this idea. And with dozens of fantastic snacks to choose from (such as butter toffee peanuts, chocolate-covered almonds, caramel corn with peanuts, etc.) and a low price of only $9-10 per item, your group can wind up selling hundreds or thousands of snacks in a single fundraising event.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $3,700
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Schools, Churches, Sports Teams, Nonprofits
Popularity: √√√√√
The custom face mask fundraiser is the perfect fundraising idea for schools, churches, sports teams, and nonprofits who need to raise money while social distancing.
Here’s how it works:
Then, your product fundraising company (such as ABC Fundraising) will create and distribute your masks. Your organization’s logo will look great on a face mask, and your supporters will help keep your community safe while sporting custom face masks with your group’s logo. It’s a win-win!
You don’t have to be a nonprofit organization to fundraise! In fact, individuals can host a plethora of unique fundraising ideas on their own. Most often, these fundraising ideas are used to bring in funding for medical bills, adoption fees, veterinary costs, and other critical, unexpected expenditures. Here are some of our favorite fundraising ideas for individual or personal campaigns:
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $5,000
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Individuals, Nonprofits, Churches
Popularity: √√√
When a person is looking for a personal fundraiser for a life event such as an injury, operation, legal bills, or funeral bills, a great way to raise money quickly is through online fundraising. One particular facet of online fundraising that has worked well for many of these types of causes is crowdfunding.
Here’s how it works:
For maximized fundraising success, be sure to look for an online fundraising company with low or no setup costs and low transaction fees. Platforms that are particularly popular in this space include Fundly, GoFundMe, and Kickstarter.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $2,000
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Individuals, Teams
Popularity: √√√
When an individual needs to raise money for a school trip, a beauty pageant, or other similar life events, many will turn to pledge challenges as a quick and easy fundraising idea to raise a ton of money quickly.
Here’s how it works:
There are a few different ways to hold a pledge challenge fundraiser. For some, donors will only make their contributions if the overall fundraising goal was met. For example, if an individual aims to raise $1,000 but only brings in $900 in fundraising pledges, donors are not actually obligated to submit their gifts. However, some fundraisers will collect pledged donations from supporters even if their goal was not met. Make sure to specify which method you’ll be following ahead of time.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $150
Cost To Get Started? $10
Who is it for? Individuals, Kids, Parents
Popularity: √√√
A lemonade stand is a great way for individuals to raise money on a nice sunny day. The key here is to make homemade, freshly squeezed lemonade to sell.
Here’s how it works:
To maximize success, you’ll want to check out some great recipes to make sure your lemonade has the right blend of sweet and sour. If people like your recipe, you can set up your stand every weekend to satisfy your happy repeat customers.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $800
Cost To Get Started? $50
Who is it for? Individuals, Churches, Youth Sports, Nonprofits, High Schools
Popularity: √√√√
When the weather is good, a car wash fundraiser is an easy-to-do fundraiser with very little start-up costs.
Here’s how it works:
Make sure to schedule your car wash fundraiser strategically. For example, a warm Saturday in the middle of the summer is likely to be more successful than a rainy Wednesday in the wintertime.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $300
Cost To Get Started? $20
Who is it for? Kids, Individuals, Friends, Youth Groups
Popularity: √√√
Grab the flour, eggs, milk, and mixer because—it’s time for a bake sale! This is one of our favorite fundraisers for individuals and small groups looking to raise a bit of money for their cause.
Here’s how it works:
To make the most out of your bake sale, try to be original and bake fun and unique cakes, breads, or cupcakes. And don’t forget to decorate them, too! Plus, you can make your bake sale accessible to all by adding in some gluten-free, vegan, and/or sugarless options for individuals who might have a dietary restriction.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,300
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Individuals, Nonprofits, Churches, Clubs
Popularity: √√
Email donation requests are a quick and easy way to raise money using basic technology for a myriad of causes.
Here’s how it works:
If you have a ton of contacts to email, you can leverage email automation software to send out mass messages at once. Just remember to tweak each email so that it’s personalized to each recipient!
Most nonprofits rely on charitable gifts from supporters to keep their doors open and their missions funded. However, running the same fundraising campaigns year after year can lead to donor fatigue in even the most dedicated of supporters. These are a few of our favorite fundraising ideas for nonprofit organizations:
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $4,300
Cost To Get Started? $20
Who is it for? Nonprofits
Popularity: √√√
When it’s time to raise money, many nonprofits turn to the tried-and-true method of the fundraising letter. This is something that can be done on an annual, semi-annual, or more regular schedule to maximize supporter engagement and overall fundraising revenue.
Here’s how it works:
Fundraising letters are effective because your supporters want to hear from you, and in this day and age of email and text communication, a personalized fundraising letter is a great way to get attention for your cause.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $2,300
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Nonprofits
Popularity: √√
One of the best ways to find funding for your nonprofit is through the use of grants. These are large sums of money provided to nonprofits and other charitable organizations, generally for a specific purpose in mind.
Here’s how it works:
Governments, corporations, and foundations offer a myriad of generous grants to nonprofits that meet certain criteria. More than likely, there’s a grant out there for you—you just need to know where to look.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $700
Cost To Get Started? $50
Who is it for? Nonprofits, churches, schools
Popularity: √√√√
Everyone has some old books lying around that they don’t plan on reading, right? Instead of just collecting dust, why not turn those books into funds for your nonprofit organization. A book sale or a rummage sale is an inexpensive way to raise money for your nonprofit.
Here’s how it works:
For even better results, you can pair this fundraising idea with a community bake sale! Sell refreshments and treats, and you should do very well with this exciting combination fundraiser.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $10,000
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Nonprofits, Clubs, Schools
Popularity: √√√
Perhaps the easiest way to raise money quickly is by asking for donations during a phone-a-thon fundraiser. When done right, this can be a fantastic way to garner support for any cause.
Here’s how it works:
Be prepared to spend a few days making calls to your supporters and donors. Some larger nonprofits will subcontract this work to a call center to speed things up, but you’ll need to be prepared to pay a percentage of donations if you choose to outsource your calls.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $700
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Nonprofits, Schools, Clubs
Popularity: √√√
Many stores will allow nonprofits to place a can by their cash register to collect coins and other change. This is great for collecting money passively and easily, although you’re not likely to raise a ton of money this way.
Here’s how it works:
If you can get a local franchise to place a can at all their stores in your area, your nonprofit could raise a lot of funds fairly quickly. You might be surprised at how often people will donate their loose change just because there’s a can there!
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $11,000
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Nonprofits
Popularity: √√√
For a tax write-off, some people like to donate their used car to a charity they love. There are many organizations that accept car donations, and these individuals will be able to write off the value of the car on their tax returns.
Here’s how it works:
As a nonprofit, it’s a good idea to consider this fundraising idea if you think you might have supporters willing to donate their old vehicles.
Schools and educational programs are notoriously underfunded. To keep their doors open and students learning, and to supplement limited government funding, many schools turn to creative fundraising efforts to bring in some much-needed revenue. Here are some of the ways that public and private institutions have raised money through unique fundraising ideas:
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,700
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Schools
Popularity: √√√
Hosting a teacher or principal challenge is a great way to motivate students to raise money on behalf of your school.
Here’s how it works:
You can even host this type of fundraiser alongside one of our favorite product fundraisers. Then, instead of your fundraising goal being a dollar amount of donations, you can seek to hit a certain number of product orders.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $4,500
Cost To Get Started? $100
Who is it for? Schools
Popularity: √√√√
Charity auctions are popular fundraisers for all sorts of fundraising organizations—including both public and private schools.
Here’s how it works:
School auctions have a unique advantage over the typical charity auction because you have an existing base of support (parents, family members, alumni, etc.) that will be more than happy to participate in your fundraising event.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $900
Cost To Get Started? $50
Who is it for? Schools, Nonprofits, Clubs
Popularity: √√
A calendar fundraiser works especially well toward the beginning of a new year—meaning January or August, depending on how you look at it. Then, buyers will have a beautiful new calendar they’ll be able to make use of all year long.
Here’s how it works:
To add an extra layer of fun, you can hold a contest leading up to the fundraiser in which students can submit their favorite photos or artwork to be featured in the calendar!
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $800
Cost To Get Started? $50
Who is it for? Schools, Nonprofits, Clubs
Popularity: √√
A recipe book fundraiser is a fantastic way to raise money for any group or organization, including schools.
Here’s how it works:
This fundraiser is popular because in the end, you’ll have an extremely unique product that you can’t buy just anywhere. Students and families will love having the opportunity to try out their classmates’ favorite recipes and perhaps discover a new favorite food.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,300
Cost To Get Started? $100
Who is it for? Schools, Clubs, Churches
Popularity: √√√
A game tournament is an engaging fundraising event that leverages the power of gamification to maximize fundraising revenue.
Here’s how it works:
This exciting fundraiser provides participants with an opportunity to showcase their gaming skills while raising money for a cause they care about. Plus, everyone will be vying for first place (even if the only prize is bragging rights).
After-school clubs, sports leagues, community programs, and extracurricular activities cost money to run and for individuals to participate in them—for everything from uniforms and supplies to meeting spaces and travel expenses. Here are some suggested fundraising ideas to help groups like these raise the money they need:
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $2,100+
Cost To Get Started? $200
Who is it for? Clubs, nonprofits, schools
Popularity: √√
A great fundraising idea for clubs, schools, and nonprofits is a gift card fundraiser. This works especially well during the holiday season when people are buying gifts for their friends and loved ones.
Here’s how it works:
When you buy these gift cards upfront in bulk, you can receive significant discounts on the face value. More than likely you’ll be able to earn an average of 10% profit on each gift card. It’s a super easy fundraiser, and it’s a way for your supporters to contribute by purchasing something they can get good use from.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $3,100
Cost To Get Started? $100
Who is it for? Clubs, Nonprofits, Schools
Popularity: √√
Another great fundraising idea to consider running leading into the holiday season is a gift-wrapping fundraiser.
Here’s how it works:
Make sure your volunteers have plenty of gift-wrapping experience, as you’ll raise more money when people are happy with their beautifully wrapped gifts.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,100+
Cost To Get Started? $50
Who is it for? Clubs, Schools
Popularity: √√√
A sponsorship banner is a fantastic way to leverage community relationships with local businesses and organizations.
Here’s how it works:
This is an easy fundraising idea for clubs to run because you’ll only need a few volunteers to make calls to local businesses or visit them in person to sell your banner sponsorship. Plus, it strengthens existing corporate relationships and paves the way for future partnership opportunities as well.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $4,300
Cost To Get Started? $20
Who is it for? Clubs, Schools
Popularity: √√√
Many clubs are turning to cell phone recycling fundraisers to raise a ton of money without having to ask for financial contributions from supporters.
Here’s how it works:
The more places you advertise your fundraiser, the more phones your club will collect and therefore the more money you’ll be able to raise. The best phones to collect are iPhones and Samsungs, as you’ll be able to turn these phones into a company like ecoATM that will pay you a surprisingly high amount of money for each phone.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $4,300
Cost To Get Started? $20
Who is it for? Clubs, Schools
Popularity: √√√
This next fundraising idea, in a similar fashion to the cell phone recycling fundraiser, is the ink cartridge recycling fundraiser. You can run this fundraiser the same way you would run the cell phone fundraiser, or even host these simultaneously.
Here’s how it works:
Some organizations have been able to raise thousands of dollars by partnering with recycling organizations for this easy and practical fundraising idea. This can easily end up being a long-term fundraiser, where funds can be gathered year-round and set aside for upcoming group fundraisers.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,000
Cost To Get Started? $30
Who is it for? Clubs, Schools, Nonprofits, Churches
Popularity: √√√
Having a lawn or rummage sale is a relatively easy method to raise some of the funds you require for the successful operation of your day-to-day activities.
Here’s how it works:
Your supporters will not only be happy to help your group by buying some items, but they will also appreciate the opportunity to explore an exciting rummage sale in their community.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,500
Cost To Get Started? $100
Who is it for? Clubs, Schools, Nonprofits, Churches
Popularity: √√√
A raffle is a popular fundraiser for all sorts of organizations—and for good reason. Your supporters will love to partake, and they have the potential to bring in substantial fundraising revenue for your cause.
Here’s how it works:
The better your raffle items are, the more your supporters will be willing to pay for tickets. The more people buy your tickets, the more you raise for your club!
Fundraising events are popular money-makers for all sorts of causes—including nonprofits, schools, clubs, religious groups, and other charitable organizations. Here are a few of our favorite fundraising event ideas that any group can take on:
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,700
Cost To Get Started? $300
Who is it for? Nonprofits and Community Organizations
Popularity: √√√
If you’re looking for a unique and engaging fundraising event, you might consider hosting a themed event with Casino-style gaming.
Here’s how it works:
While this event fundraising idea has the potential to raise a ton of money for your cause, it’s a good idea to double-check your state’s gambling regulations to make sure you’re not inadvertently breaking any laws.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $3,700
Cost To Get Started? $50
Who is it for? Nonprofits, Clubs, Schools
Popularity: √√√
A cheap and popular event for all sorts of causes and groups is a pancake breakfast fundraiser.
Here’s how it works:
To maximize your profits, you can buy a ready-made mix like Krusteaz at a big box store so all that you have to do is add is water and cook your pancakes.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $2,100
Cost To Get Started? $300
Who is it for? Nonprofits, Schools, Community Organizations
Popularity: √√√
Fundraising ideas for carnivals are endless, which gives you complete creative freedom. Your own unique fundraising ideas are what is going to make your carnival fundraising event a profitable one.
Here’s how it works:
It involves time and juggling a bunch of moving parts but a carnival fundraiser can be a lot of fun and a great way to make money. Here are some exciting fundraising ideas to get you started: have a face painting booth, a cakewalk, a fortune teller, and a craft area. There will be something there for everyone!
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,200
Cost To Get Started? $300
Who is it for? Adult Sports Groups and Community Organizations
Popularity: √√√
Karaoke fundraisers can be such a fun time for your group and community and a great way to raise money at the same time.
Here’s how it works:
This is definitely one of the most enjoyable fundraising ideas you can do while getting your whole community involved. You can even raise some extra money for your cause by allowing the audience to vote for a karaoke winner with their dollars!
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $2,000
Cost To Get Started? $100
Who is it for? Schools, Nonprofits, Clubs, Churches
Popularity: √√√√
Event-a-thon fundraisers incorporate peer-to-peer fundraising tactics to raise money for a good cause, all while participating in an exciting event.
Here’s how it works:
The best part about an event-a-thon fundraiser is realizing how quickly each participant’s pledges add up. Then you get a ton of money for your cause!
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,000
Cost To Get Started? $300
Who is it for? Nonprofits, Schools, Clubs
Popularity: √√
Let your supporters show off their musical talent with a Battle of the Bands fundraiser!
Here’s how it works:
Leveraging friendly competition is a fantastic way to boost any fundraising event and bring in even more revenue. With a Battle of the Bands contest, you’re sure to engage with your audience and raise a ton of money for your cause.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,000
Cost To Get Started? $100
Who is it for? Schools, Clubs, Community Organizations, Youth Groups
Popularity: √√
A teen night fundraiser is essentially a traditional fundraising gala catered to a younger crowd.
Here’s how it works:
These fundraising events can be a fantastic opportunity for engaging with your younger supporters. Just make sure you put enough time and effort into making it a truly memorable night full of good food, music, and other fun teen-appropriate activities.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,000
Cost To Get Started? $50
Who is it for? Schools, Clubs, Youth Groups
Popularity: √√
Encourage your students’ creative abilities while raising money for your school with this creative fundraising idea.
Here’s how it works:
Parents and family members will be more likely to pay high prices for artwork made by their own students, which means this fundraiser has the potential to bring in a significant amount of revenue for your school. And as an added bonus, your students get the opportunity to feel like famous artists.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $500
Cost To Get Started? $20
Who is it for? Schools, Nonprofits
Popularity: √√
You don’t have to be able to say “toy boat” three times fast to run this unique and exciting fundraiser.
Here’s how it works:
This competition is a fun way to raise money for your cause, and your supporters will likely become extremely invested in their personal boats as they make their way down the water.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,000
Cost To Get Started? $200
Who is it for? Schools, Churches, Nonprofits
Popularity: √√√
If your supporter base is filled with parents of young children (think: schools and community organizations), they’re going to love this fundraising idea. You’ll handle the kids while mom and dad get to have a special night out together.
Here’s how it works:
Every parent knows that getting affordable childcare for a night out can be nearly impossible. That’s why with this parents’ night out fundraiser, it’s a win-win! Parents get a night off for a reasonable price, and you get to raise money for your cause.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $300
Cost To Get Started? $35
Who is it for? Schools, Nonprofits
Popularity: √√
A scavenger hunt fundraiser is a great way to raise money for your cause in a fun and unique manner.
Here’s how it works:
This scavenger hunt fundraiser will likely take your supporters back to their youth, although it can be a fun event for participants of all ages to take part in. To boost awareness for your fundraiser, encourage teams to post photos of their items on social media using a particular hashtag!
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $500
Cost To Get Started? $75
Who is it for? Schools, Nonprofits, Churches
Popularity: √√
Are you looking to entertain your supporters while raising money for your cause? Host a movie night fundraiser!
Here’s how it works:
This unique idea can even be converted to a social distance-friendly fundraiser by hosting a virtual movie night via Netflix Party or a makeshift drive-in theater.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $300
Cost To Get Started? $50
Who is it for? Schools, Churches, Individuals
Popularity: √
You and your supporters each deserve a relaxing night at the spa, and this fundraiser can be just the way to do it.
Here’s how it works:
For an added bonus, you can serve wine, cheese, and other refreshments for an all-encompassing spa experience that your spa attendees will love.
Many organizations are turning to virtual and social-distanced fundraising ideas to continue raising money amid COVID-19. After all, many of your supporters have likely been impacted by the global pandemic, and it makes sense to tailor your fundraising strategies to meet current circumstances. These are a few of our favorite COVID-friendly fundraising ideas to consider:
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $3000
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Schools, Churches, Youth Groups, Sports Teams
Popularity: √√√
One of the best Fundraising ideas for COVID-19 is the 10-minute fundraiser. This is a mobile-friendly fundraiser where groups leverage their own personal networks of support.
Here’s how it works:
There isn’t an easier way to raise money while social distancing during COVID-19, and you can be sure to raise a lot of money in just 10 minutes. Plus, you’ll be sure to see how quickly small donations can add up!
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $500
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Churches, Schools, Nonprofits, Individuals
Popularity: √√
A give-it-up challenge is a unique fundraiser and a great exercise in self-control all rolled into one.
Here’s how it works:
This idea is especially COVID-friendly because many people have already given up their unnecessary treats like going out for coffee and eating at restaurants. Now, you just encourage them to redirect that extra money to your fundraising campaign!
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $3,000
Cost To Get Started? $100
Who is it for? Nonprofits, Schools, Churches
Popularity: √√√√
Text-to-give fundraising campaigns have the potential to raise a ton of money for any cause while utilizing the technology your supporters already have: their cell phones.
Here’s how it works:
By now, most of your supporters have already used text-to-give technology at some point, so they’re likely familiar with the process. However, it’s a good idea to include a brief explainer (or walkt-hrough image) for those who might be exploring this option for the first time.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $1,000
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Schools, Clubs, Nonprofits, Churches
Popularity: √√√
A shoe drive fundraiser is a unique campaign that can raise a ton of money for your cause by simply collecting shoes!
Here’s how it works:
A shoe drive is a favorite fundraising idea for any time, but it’s especially popular amid COVID-19 because it doesn’t involve asking for monetary contributions. Instead, it provides supporters with the perfect opportunity to declutter their closets while helping a good cause at the same time.
Average Fundraising Amount Raised: $2,000
Cost To Get Started? NONE
Who is it for? Schools, Nonprofits
Popularity: √√√√
A matching gift drive leverages the underutilized power of corporate philanthropy to bring in more funding for your organization.
Here’s how it works:
This is a popular fundraising idea to pair with other campaigns (such as online donations or email requests), and supporters love it because it has the chance to make their donation go even further. Plus, participating companies get to increase their corporate social responsibility. It’s a win-win!
Now that you’ve had the chance to explore our favorite fundraising ideas, we hope you find one that works for your fundraising needs.
Our #1 fundraising tip? Save time and money for your cause by partnering with a top fundraising platform like ABC Fundraising. We’ll put in the brunt of the fundraising effort so you can focus on whatever it is your mission entails. It’s as easy as ABC!
For more innovative fundraising ideas and valuable resources, be sure to check out the following:
ABC Fundraising® has been providing fundraisers for schools, churches and non-profits since 1993.
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