At some point, every non-profit needs to host a fundraiser to reach a certain goal.
But there's a lot to consider when planning a fundraising event: budget, sponsors, donations, venue, guest list, and (most importantly) the type of fundraiser you're hosting.
At Photobooth Rocks, we've been to LOTS of corporate parties, so we know what helps people have a good time. Here are 10 fundraising event ideas that are sure to have your guests talking long after the event is over.
10 Fundraising Event Ideas
Your events don't have to be extreme to be memorable or even to reach your donation goal.
The idea is to offer something that people would willingly give money to (and remember, people are more willing to part with their money if they know it's going to a good cause) and gather donations to create an awesome experience.
With each of these fundraising event ideas, focus on showing sponsors and donors a great time rather than a "gimmick."
1. Silent Auction
One of the easiest ideas and a fundraising staple is a silent auction.
Have local businesses (or individuals) donate an item(s) or experience to be auctioned off to the highest bidder. Start with a minimum bid (as well as the estimated retail value) and a clipboard for attendees to write down their bids.
2. 50/50 Raffles
Everyone loves a good raffle, and this is one that requires no upfront investment or donations.
Sell raffle tickets throughout your event and provide a running total. The winner gets 50% of the donated funds, with the remainder going to your fundraiser. As the total climbs, so do ticket sales.
3. Carnival
Carnivals are great fun for the whole family, and they can be as simple or as extravagant as you like.
Rent (or build!) carnival games and find volunteers to run the booths. Charge guests for the tokens needed to play. They then redeem their winnings for donated prizes.
4. Tournament
People love to compete! Host a tournament where people pay to compete for a top prize.
Golf, pool, bowling, poker, or even board games are sure to draw a crowd.
5. Casino Night
Vegas is too far, so set up a casino right where you are.
Casino rental companies are experts at this kind of thing; they host fundraisers all the time. Charge people an entrance free with a certain amount of "fun money" for them to play with. If they lose everything, they have to pay up for additional dollars.
6. 5k Race
5k races are popular, so why not capitalize on a favorite?
But these days, themed races are all the rage. From The Color Run to The 5k Zombie Run, 5k's are becoming more "fun" than "fitness." Maybe you can come up with your own theme that reflects your cause?
7. Trivia Night
Trivia is where "useless knowledge" can really pay off.
Write questions related to your cause, a holiday, your event venue, or even general knowledge. Offer a cool prize (again, donated) and people will definitely show up. (If you think the game itself isn't enough of a draw, have admission include a meal of pizza or burgers donated by a local business.)
8. Cook-Off
If there's anything people love more than competing, it's food!
Admission price includes an all-you-can-eat spread of a certain type of food (chili, pancakes, BBQ, etc.) with contests for the best fare.
9. Gala
Formal galas are a great excuse to get all dressed up (and feel good doing it).
Offer a nice dinner at a beautiful venue with an MC organizing a presentation about your charity and what you do. Admission price is either by the chair or by the table and you can offer different raffles or a silent auction throughout the event.
Hire a DJ (and a photo booth!) for a fun after-party!
10. Gift wrapping
Hosting an end-of-the-year fundraiser? Offer something everyone needs: gift wrapping!
Ask for wrapping paper and bow donations from a local retail store and get some volunteers to offer their time. Charge per present and watch the funds roll in!
How to Use a Photo Booth at Your Fundraiser
Of course, none of these fundraising events would be complete without a photo booth!
Photo booth rentals provide a chance for attendees and donors to create snapshots of the occasion...ones they'll never throw away. You can sell tickets to use the photo booth as part of your fundraising goal, create a custom photo strips featuring your logo, get custom props themed to your company and event, and so much more.
Bottom line is, don't forget the photo booth when planning your next fundraiser.
Conclusion
Reaching your fundraising goals can be as fun for you as it is for your attendees.
Any one of these fundraising event ideas will make for a successful, fun event that people will be happy to come back to year after year.
And of course, whatever fundraising theme you choose, don't forget to rent your photo booth to memorialize the event!
