5 Ways to Make your Fundraiser Successful
Fundraisers have been a tried and true financial support tool for nonprofit organizations for decades. From live and silent auctions to dinners and galas, there’s no end to the various ways of bringing individuals together to support an organization. So, HOW do you make these events successful? Here are 5 ways to plan a successful fundraising event:
#1: SET ATTAINABLE GOALS
A common mistake in planning a fundraiser is setting a financial goal that is impossible to reach. Using historical data, making best guesses on the audience make up and size, and planning the various ways attendees will contribute - from ticket sales to an auction - are all key factors in setting a realistic and attainable fundraising goal. It’s better to exceed your goal than it is to fall short and have to plan another fundraising event or campaign to support your organization.
#2: ENSURE CLEAR COMMUNICATION OF THE MISSION
Another key factor to ensuring a successful fundraiser is effectively conveying the mission of the organization and overall purpose of the event. It's crucial to consistently reinforce the core mission throughout the event, from save-the-dates and invitations to the thank you notes and post-event communications after the event. Amidst the festivities, attendees may lose sight of the purpose, making it imperative to periodically remind them of the impact their contributions can make.
#3: USE EMOTIONAL RESONANCE
Utilizing emotionally resonant content, such as impactful videos reminiscent of those used by organizations like the SPCA, can deeply connect individuals to the cause. By showcasing visuals and narratives from those whom your organization has supported in the past, the cause becomes more tangible, evoking a genuine emotional response. Encouraging empathy is essential, and guests are more likely to contribute when they feel a personal connection.
#4: MAKE DONATION ACCESS EASY
Another vital aspect of a successful fundraising event is the seamless facilitation of donations. Implementing QR codes linking to the donation page at various touchpoints, including tables and programs, ensures accessibility for guests. Incorporating the donation link in invitations allows for pre-event contributions, and placing it in gift bags provides a post-event option. Maximizing opportunities for donations increases the likelihood of contributions, and providing multiple avenues demonstrates organizational transparency and commitment.
#5: PROVIDE RECOGNITION
While the focus is on fundraising, it's essential to balance the emphasis on monetary support with expressions of gratitude. Highlighting the progress achieved to date based on previous contributions shows donors how their contributions were maximized and may incentivize them, and others, to continue their ongoing support. Remember, a simple and heartfelt “thank you” goes a long way.
SUMMARY
Hosting a successful fundraising event can be a daunting task - from managing the donations, to planning and executing the actual event, there are a lot of details to consider. Keeping these five tips top of mind as you begin your planning can help your organization reach, and possibly even exceed, your fundraising goals!
Are you planning a major fundraising event in 2024 or 2025? Glint Events is ready to help ensure it is a success, from start to finish! Contact us today to learn more about our services.
