22 Fundraising Ideas For Nonprofit Organizations.

Summary

In this presentation, Sharon Mikr shares 22 creative fundraising ideas for nonprofit organizations, emphasizing the importance of having a clear fundraising plan. She covers both traditional and non-traditional methods such as applying for grants, negotiating contracts, selling advertisements, hosting events, and creating donor programs. Additionally, she highlights strategies like selling branded products, developing business ventures, and collaborating with other organizations. Sharon stresses the need to tailor fundraising strategies to an organization's specific needs and resources, urging nonprofits to implement and monitor their plans to ensure continued success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Nonprofit organizations should have a fundraising plan with clear goals and objectives to ensure long-term sustainability.
• 😀 Traditional fundraising methods include applying for grants and government contracts, while non-traditional methods include selling ad space on newsletters and websites.
• 😀 Research is crucial when applying for foundation or government grants to ensure alignment with your nonprofit’s mission.
• 😀 Nonprofits can negotiate contracts with the private sector or government to provide specific services that they cannot offer internally.
• 😀 Annual fundraising events, such as golf tournaments and cookoffs, can raise significant funds, especially when paired with raffles or auctions.
• 😀 Participating in combined campaigns allows nonprofits to receive donations from company employees who are willing to contribute annually.
• 😀 Selling branded products like t-shirts, keychains, or pens can generate additional revenue, particularly during fundraising events.
• 😀 Creating a small business or social enterprise, such as a thrift store, offers a way to generate revenue while helping clients develop work skills.
• 😀 Collaborating with other nonprofits to host joint workshops or conferences can expand resources and reach, generating income through registration fees.
• 😀 A donor program, including planned giving and memorial gifts, allows individuals to contribute to your nonprofit through direct donations or legacy giving.
• 😀 Board members should be encouraged to contribute financially or help solicit donations from their network to support the organization’s fundraising efforts.
• 😀 A fee-for-service program, based on the client’s ability to pay, can help nonprofits generate revenue while increasing the perceived value of their services.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of creating a fundraising plan for a nonprofit organization?

The main purpose is to have a clear strategy with specific goals and objectives to generate sufficient funds to run the nonprofit, ensuring the organization's sustainability and growth.

What are the two types of fundraising methods mentioned in the script?

The two types of fundraising methods are traditional methods, such as grants and contracts, and non-traditional methods, like selling advertisements based on the organization's website.

Why is it important for nonprofit organizations to research and apply for foundation and government grants?

It is important because organizations need to align their mission statement with the funding areas of foundations and government entities, ensuring they apply for relevant grants to avoid wasting time and resources.

How can a nonprofit organization generate revenue through selling advertisement space in newsletters?

Nonprofits can sell advertisement space in their newsletters by offering various ad sizes and placements, setting different fees based on factors like the ad's size, color, and position in the newsletter.

What is one benefit of developing a multi-level membership program for a nonprofit?

A multi-level membership program allows nonprofits to offer different perks at each level, encouraging people to contribute more to access additional benefits and fostering stronger engagement.

What is the role of volunteers in fundraising, according to the script?

Volunteers can save the organization money by taking on tasks that would otherwise require paid staff. They can also help with soliciting donations and identifying potential sponsors.

What is a combined company campaign, and how can it benefit nonprofit organizations?

A combined company campaign involves partnerships between nonprofits and corporations, where employees of a company donate money to nonprofit organizations. This model helps nonprofits raise funds and gain exposure.

What is the purpose of a donor program in nonprofit fundraising?

A donor program helps nonprofit organizations continuously seek out and maintain relationships with individuals who believe in the organization's mission and are willing to contribute financially to its cause.

How can selling branded products like pens or t-shirts raise funds for a nonprofit?

Selling branded products with the nonprofit’s logo can generate revenue at fundraising events or other activities, creating an additional stream of income while also promoting the organization.

What is the importance of cultivating relationships with for-profit corporations for nonprofit organizations?

Cultivating relationships with for-profit corporations that share similar interests or missions can lead to financial support, publicity, and mutually beneficial partnerships, helping nonprofits grow.