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Fundraising Tips

Asking for donations for something you care about isn’t easy, but here’s how to make it way less awkward.

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How To Amplifying Fundraising

  1. Be You!  Smile, laugh, and have fun every step of the way.  You are the best advertisement for your cause!
  2. Tell Your Story. You believe in your cause, right?  So clearly communicate it, and let your passion lead the way in convincing your supporters of its worthiness. If you fundraise in memory or in honor of someone, say so—telling a personal story about your cause is a way for people to relate to you and your cause.
  3. Create A Timeline & Action Plan. Start with your end goal and work backwards from your goal in steps. The final result will be your action plan.
  4. Set a tangible, achievable goal and share it.
  5. Ask Creatively. Use your imagination and sense of humor. Use visual tools and social media to reach beyond family and friends.
  6. Ask Directly. People often respond more quickly to a tangible request than to a general request.
  7. Promote Effort Through Multiple Channels.  Social media, direct email, flyers and anyone you think will help you champion your cause.
  8. Follow-up!  Engage supporters and potential supporters with updates on your progress and on how their donation will make a difference.  Send them visuals of you in action.
  9. Don’t Be Afraid Of Plan B. Don’t dim your hopes—just go in a new direction.
  10. Don’t Be Afraid To Ask! You’re working to help your cause not going to dinner with the money. Make it clear that it’s ok to say no.
  11. Ask for Pledges from family members, friends, people at school, work and people near and far. Ask your supporters about matching funds from their employers. Here’s how.
  12. Suggest A Donation Amount and show how a given amount will impact the organization.
  13. Thank, Thank, Thank!  Recognize partners, sponsors, donors, mentors, team members, supporters, and anyone who has helped you along the way. Here’s how.