[2023] What Fundraiser Makes the Most Money?

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Are you looking for the most profitable fundraising ideas? Fundraising is a great way to support a cause you care about while also making a significant impact. But with so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which fundraiser will generate the most money. In this article, we will explore various fundraising ideas and provide expert advice on which ones are the most lucrative.

Table of Contents

Quick Answer

If you’re looking for a quick answer, the most profitable fundraisers tend to be events that engage participants and create a sense of community. Walkathons and marathons, trivia nights, and auctions are some of the top fundraisers that have a high potential for generating significant funds. Additionally, online crowdfunding platforms have become increasingly popular and can be highly successful in raising money for a cause.

To get started with your fundraising event, consider the following options:

Quick Tips and Facts

Before we dive into the details of each fundraising idea, here are some quick tips and facts to keep in mind:

  • Engage your community: The success of a fundraiser often depends on the level of engagement from your community. Encourage participation and create a sense of excitement around your event.
  • Set clear goals: Define your fundraising goals and communicate them effectively to your supporters. People are more likely to donate when they understand the impact their contribution will make.
  • Utilize online platforms: In today’s digital age, online platforms can significantly boost your fundraising efforts. Consider using social media, crowdfunding platforms, and email marketing to reach a wider audience.
  • Offer incentives: Provide incentives for participants and donors. This could include prizes for top fundraisers, recognition on social media, or exclusive merchandise.
  • Thank your supporters: Show appreciation to your donors and participants. A simple thank-you note or public acknowledgment can go a long way in building long-term relationships.

Background


Fundraising has a long history and has evolved over time. From bake sales to walkathons, organizations and individuals have found creative ways to raise money for various causes. In recent years, the advent of technology and online platforms has opened up new possibilities for fundraising.

Now, let’s explore some of the most profitable fundraising ideas and how you can make the most money for your cause.

1. A Fitness Challenge – Marathon or Walkathon


A fitness challenge, such as a marathon or walkathon, is an excellent way to raise funds while promoting physical fitness. Participants can collect donations from friends, family, and colleagues for completing the challenge. These events often attract a large number of participants and generate significant funds.

Pros:

  • Engages participants in a healthy activity while raising money.
  • Appeals to fitness enthusiasts and those looking to support a cause.
  • Can be organized as a community event, fostering a sense of togetherness.

Cons:

  • Requires careful planning and logistics.
  • May require permits and permissions for hosting the event.
  • Participants may need to invest time and effort in training for the challenge.

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“Participating in a walkathon not only helped me raise money for a cause I care about but also improved my fitness level. It was a win-win situation!” – Sarah, Walkathon Participant

2. Selling Cadbury Chocolate


Selling Cadbury chocolate is a popular and easy fundraising option. Cadbury offers a wide range of delicious chocolates that are loved by people of all ages. You can sell these chocolates at school events, community gatherings, or even online.

Pros:

  • Cadbury is a well-known and trusted brand, making it easier to sell.
  • Chocolates are a popular choice for fundraising, appealing to a wide audience.
  • Can be sold in various settings, including schools, workplaces, and events.

Cons:

  • May require upfront investment to purchase the chocolates.
  • Competition from other chocolate fundraisers in the market.
  • Considerations for temperature control and storage of the chocolates.

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“Selling Cadbury chocolates was a hit at our school fundraiser. Everyone loves chocolate, and it was an easy sell!” – Mark, School Fundraiser Organizer

3. Sausage Sizzle or BBQ Fundraiser


A sausage sizzle or BBQ fundraiser is a classic choice that never goes out of style. This type of event involves grilling sausages and serving them in bread rolls, along with condiments and drinks. Sausage sizzles are particularly popular in Australia and New Zealand.

Pros:

  • Draws large crowds, especially at community events and sports games.
  • Relatively low-cost setup, with the potential for high-profit margins.
  • Appeals to a wide range of people, as everyone loves a good BBQ.

Cons:

  • Requires proper food handling and safety measures.
  • Considerations for obtaining permits and adhering to local regulations.
  • Weather-dependent, as outdoor events can be affected by rain or extreme heat.

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“Our sausage sizzle fundraiser was a huge success! People couldn’t resist the smell of sizzling sausages, and we raised a significant amount of money for our cause.” – Lisa, Fundraising Volunteer

4. A Movie Night or an Outdoor Movie Event


Movie nights are a fun and entertaining way to raise funds. You can organize an outdoor movie event in a park or set up a movie screening in a community hall. Charge an admission fee and offer snacks and drinks for additional revenue.

Pros:

  • Appeals to movie lovers and families looking for a night out.
  • Can be organized with minimal equipment and setup.
  • Offers opportunities for sponsorship and partnerships with local businesses.

Cons:

  • Requires obtaining the necessary licenses for screening movies.
  • Considerations for audiovisual equipment and seating arrangements.
  • Weather-dependent for outdoor events.

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“Our outdoor movie night was a hit! Families enjoyed watching a movie under the stars while supporting our cause. It was a memorable experience for everyone.” – John, Event Organizer

5. A Trivia Night


Trivia nights are a popular choice for fundraising events. Gather teams of participants and challenge their knowledge with trivia questions. Charge an entry fee and offer prizes for the winning team. Trivia nights require minimal planning and can be organized in various venues, such as pubs, community centers, or even online.

Pros:

  • Minimal setup and equipment required.
  • Appeals to a wide range of people, as trivia is enjoyed by many.
  • Can be organized as a recurring event, building a loyal following.

Cons:

  • Requires a skilled host or MC to facilitate the trivia night.
  • Considerations for obtaining suitable venues and managing team registrations.
  • May require securing sponsorship or donations for prizes.

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“Our trivia night was a blast! People had a great time testing their knowledge while supporting our cause. It was a fun and engaging way to raise funds.” – Emma, Fundraising Committee Member

6. Food Fundraiser


Food fundraisers, such as picnics, barbecues, or black-tie dinners, can be a great way to connect with your community while raising money for a cause. These events offer an opportunity to showcase local culinary talents and create memorable experiences for attendees.

Pros:

  • Appeals to food enthusiasts and those looking for a unique dining experience.
  • Can be organized in various settings, from parks to banquet halls.
  • Offers opportunities for collaboration with local restaurants and chefs.

Cons:

  • Requires careful planning and coordination, especially for larger events.
  • Considerations for dietary restrictions and food safety regulations.
  • May require upfront investment for ingredients and venue rental.

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“Our food fundraiser was a hit! People enjoyed delicious meals while supporting our cause. It was a fantastic way to bring the community together.” – Sarah, Event Organizer

7. Bake Sale


Bake sales have long been a popular choice for fundraising. They offer an opportunity for individuals to showcase their baking skills and sell homemade treats. From cookies to cakes, there’s something for everyone at a bake sale.

Pros:

  • Appeals to those with a sweet tooth and supporters of homemade goods.
  • Can be organized in various settings, such as schools, community centers, or farmers’ markets.
  • Relatively low-cost setup, with the potential for high-profit margins.

Cons:

  • Requires coordination and contributions from multiple bakers.
  • Considerations for food safety and labeling of ingredients.
  • May face competition from other bake sales in the area.

Product Links:

“Our bake sale was a success! People couldn’t resist the delicious treats, and we raised a significant amount of money for our cause. It was a community effort that brought people together.” – Lisa, Bake Sale Organizer

8. Selling Raffle Tickets


Raffles are a must for profitable fundraising and can be incorporated into other fundraising activities. Sell raffle tickets for a chance to win exciting prizes donated by local businesses or individuals. The more attractive the prizes, the more tickets you’re likely to sell.

Pros:

  • Appeals to those looking for a chance to win exciting prizes.
  • Can be organized alongside other fundraising events or as a standalone activity.
  • Offers opportunities for collaboration with local businesses for prize donations.

Cons:

  • Requires obtaining the necessary permits and adhering to local regulations.
  • Considerations for ticket printing and distribution.
  • May require upfront investment for purchasing prizes or securing sponsorship.

Product Links:

“Our raffle was a hit! People were excited about the chance to win amazing prizes while supporting our cause. It added an element of excitement to our fundraising efforts.” – John, Fundraising Coordinator

9. School Fundraiser


School fundraisers involve students, teachers, and parents in fun activities for a good cause. From talent shows to fun runs, there are numerous options to engage the school community and raise funds. These events not only generate money but also teach students the value of giving back.

Pros:

  • Engages students, teachers, and parents in a shared goal.
  • Offers opportunities for creativity and collaboration.
  • Can be organized as recurring events, building a tradition within the school.

Cons:

  • Requires coordination with school administration and adherence to school policies.
  • Considerations for age-appropriate activities and safety measures.
  • May require additional resources, such as volunteers and equipment.

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“Our school fundraiser was a success! Students, teachers, and parents came together to support our cause. It was a valuable learning experience for everyone involved.” – Emma, School Fundraiser Organizer

10. Auction


Auctions, whether online or in-person, can be highly profitable fundraising events. Collect donated items or experiences and auction them off to the highest bidder. Auctions create a sense of excitement and competition, encouraging participants to bid generously.

Pros:

  • Appeals to those looking for unique and exclusive items or experiences.
  • Can generate significant funds, especially for high-value items.
  • Offers opportunities for collaboration with local businesses and individuals.

Cons:

  • Requires careful planning and coordination, especially for larger auctions.
  • Considerations for obtaining suitable venues and managing item donations.
  • May require professional auctioneers or online auction platforms.

Product Links:

“Our auction was a huge success! People were excited about the opportunity to bid on exclusive items while supporting our cause. It was a memorable event that raised significant funds.” – Sarah, Auction Organizer

11. Virtual Fundraising Events

In the digital age, virtual fundraising events have gained popularity. These events allow participants to engage from the comfort of their homes while supporting a cause. Virtual walks, online concerts, and live-streamed events are just a few examples of virtual fundraising opportunities.

Pros:

  • Allows for participation from a wider audience, regardless of location.
  • Reduces costs associated with venue rentals and logistics.
  • Offers opportunities for creative and interactive online experiences.

Cons:

  • Requires familiarity with online platforms and technology.
  • Considerations for ensuring a smooth virtual experience for participants.
  • May require additional marketing efforts to reach a broader audience.

Product Links:

“Our virtual fundraising event was a hit! People from all over the world joined us online to support our cause. It was a unique and inclusive way to raise funds.” – John, Virtual Event Organizer

12. Online Crowdfunding


Online crowdfunding platforms have revolutionized the way individuals and organizations raise money. These platforms allow you to create a fundraising campaign and share it with your network. Supporters can make donations directly through the platform, making it easy to reach a wide audience.

Pros:

  • Appeals to those who prefer to donate online and support causes remotely.
  • Offers a platform for storytelling and sharing the impact of your cause.
  • Can reach a global audience, expanding your fundraising potential.

Cons:

  • Requires effective marketing and promotion to stand out among other campaigns.
  • Considerations for platform fees and payment processing.
  • May require ongoing engagement and updates to keep supporters informed.

Product Links:

“Online crowdfunding was a game-changer for our fundraising efforts. We were able to reach a wider audience and exceed our fundraising goals. It’s a powerful tool for making a difference.” – Lisa, Crowdfunding Campaign Organizer

FAQ

ALS Fundraiser at Major Tom in Vancouver.

How can I fundraise a large amount of money?

To fundraise a large amount of money, consider the following strategies:

  1. Engage your community: Rally support from your community by organizing events that appeal to a wide audience.
  2. Utilize online platforms: Leverage the power of social media and crowdfunding platforms to reach a broader audience.
  3. Offer incentives: Provide incentives for participants and donors, such as prizes or recognition, to encourage higher contributions.
  4. Establish partnerships: Collaborate with local businesses, organizations, and influencers to expand your reach and fundraising potential.
  5. Tell a compelling story: Share the impact of your cause through storytelling to connect with potential donors on an emotional level.

Read more about “What is the Most Profitable Fundraising Event? …”

What is the most successful way to fundraise?

The most successful way to fundraise depends on various factors, including your target audience, resources, and the cause you’re supporting. However, events that create a sense of community, such as walkathons, trivia nights, and auctions, tend to be highly successful. Additionally, leveraging online platforms and social media can significantly boost your fundraising efforts.

What kind of events make a lot of money?

Events that have the potential to make a lot of money are those that attract a large number of participants and create a sense of excitement. Walkathons, marathons, trivia nights, and auctions are some examples of events that can generate significant funds. Additionally, online crowdfunding campaigns have the potential to reach a global audience and raise substantial amounts of money.

Read more about “Creative Fundraiser Ideas …: How to Raise Money in Unique Ways”

What is an ideal fundraiser?

An ideal fundraiser is one that aligns with your cause, engages your community, and generates significant funds. It should be well-planned, offer a unique experience, and provide opportunities for participants to contribute and make a difference. An ideal fundraiser also utilizes online platforms and social media to reach a wider audience and maximize fundraising potential.

Conclusion

When it comes to fundraising, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The most profitable fundraisers are those that engage participants, create a sense of community, and offer unique experiences. Walkathons, trivia nights, auctions, and online crowdfunding campaigns are some of the top fundraising ideas that have a high potential for generating significant funds.

Consider the nature of your cause, the interests of your target audience, and the resources available to you when choosing a fundraising idea. Remember to set clear goals, engage your community, and utilize online platforms to maximize your fundraising efforts.

To get started with your fundraising event, check out the following links:

Remember, fundraising is not just about raising money; it’s about making a positive impact and bringing people together for a common cause. Good luck with your fundraising endeavors!

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