Can you name the Guinness World Record for raising money via a live-streaming fundraising event? In 2020, organizers in France raised an impressive $6.7 million to donate to Amnesty International.
Whether you’re trying to raise $600 or $6 million, it’s challenging to host a successful fundraising campaign. How do you get the word out and get people excited about your cause?
Here are five tips for raising capital for your non-profit organization or cause.
1. Focus on Digital Advertising
Direct mail campaigns can be effective, but they’re also expensive. To avoid cutting into your campaign budget, narrow your focus to (free) digital ways to get your message out there.
Dedicate a page on your website to the campaign or set up a fundraiser through a site like GoFundMe. Share it across Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Ask your friends, family, and colleagues to re-share it with their contacts.
2. Make Your Message Consistent
It’s true that you’ll have to tweak your message depending on the platform you’re using. In general, though, the campaign should be quickly recognizable no matter where it appears. Keep your message short and sweet, clearly stating your financial goal and a deadline.
If you need help creating your campaign plan or materials, consider hiring a professional service like cdsfunds.com to help. This simple step can take your campaign to a whole new level!
3. Host a Virtual Fundraising Event
COVID-19 concerns aside, you can have terrific success with a virtual fundraiser. This might include something like:
- A costume contest where people post photos of their dressed-up pets and “vote” by contributing towards their favorite photo
- A virtual cooking class or demonstration that ties in with an upcoming holiday or community event
- A Nextflix Party fundraising event where you sell tickets to a film that relates to your cause or mission
Your goal is to get people to feel excited and inspired, so think of something you could host virtually to accomplish your goal.
4. Tell a Compelling Story
Did you know that our brains are hardwired to enjoy and respond to stories? A story helps people to form an emotional attachment to your cause, which then prompts them to take action.
Weave the story of one person, animal, or place into your campaign advertisements. Then explain exactly how their donations will make a difference for that individual. When people know where their money is going and how it will be used, they’ll feel more compelled to support your cause.
5. Personally Thank Every Contributor
Capital management doesn’t end when you hit your campaign goal. Whether someone contributed a little or a lot, part of your campaign should include individual “thank yous” to each and every contributor.
People will be touched by your thoughtfulness and more likely to support you again during future fundraising events.
How to Host a Successful Fundraising Campaign: Now You Know
Raising money isn’t always easy, even for the most experienced non-profit organization. Use the tips above for your next fundraising event and you’re sure to experience success!
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