8 Nonprofit Fundraising Ideas (Updated 2023)

Consider these best fundraising ideas to help you achieve your goals:

1. Host a Virtual Happy Hour 

If you’re not able to gather your supporters in a physical location, a virtual happy hour provides a fun alternative. Virtual happy hours held on video conferencing platforms such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Webex allow you to foster the same level of connection and engagement as in an in-person event. Just make sure to research various technologies to ensure you choose the right software for your needs. 

2. Launch a Digital Campaign 

A digital fundraising campaign provides a practical and cost-effective way to attract donors and increase donations. Digital campaigns use proven online fundraising techniques and applications to reach a larger audience, attract new donors, and foster greater relationships with the donor base. The campaign is an ongoing process that starts with online outreach via social media, websites, and emails. Once donors make their first donation, you can trigger automatic responses to drive higher engagement. Effective digital campaigns can raise more awareness, improve donor retention, reduce nonprofit workload, and increase donations.

3. Host a Charity Auction 

Charity auctions can be an effective way to interact with donors face-to-face. Procure relevant charity auction items based on the preferences of your donors. If your budget allows, hire an experienced auctioneer to help drive engagement and raise more funds for your cause.

4. Plan a Golf Tournament 

Charity golf tournaments are known as some of the most effective fundraising events. A golf tournament often attracts high-net-worth supporters who are able and willing to spend larger amounts. Your team’s first job is to set fundraising goals and a budget. Then, create a theme, pick a site, and select the date for the event. You should also promote your event by sending invitations and leveraging advertising channels like social media.

5. Host an Art Auction 

Holding an art auction is an excellent way for nonprofits to raise money. Make sure the artwork reflects your audience’s likes and preferences.  Consider asking artists you personally know to donate pieces for the auction.

6. Leverage Crowdfunding Tools 

Crowdfunding combines the power of social media and support from a large number of people, including donors, friends, and family. The ideal crowdfunding campaign helps you reach out to everyone within your network to ask them for their support. Leverage the right crowdfunding tools to explain your cause, such as Donorbox, Fundly, Classy, and more.

7. Find Community Grants 

A grant is a contribution or gift that a government or other organization gives to a nonprofit for a specific purpose. There are several types of grants available for nonprofits, including unrestricted funding, capital support, and restricted or program development grants. You can find community grants via Grants.gov, Foundation Center, and Google Ad Grants, among many others.

8. Host a Car Wash 

Hosting a car wash is another cost-effective way to raise funds. Besides, a car wash offers a great way for members to interact and have fun. Car washes are particularly suited to schools, scouting troops, band groups, and other youthful organizations.