Event Fundraising
- Identify the event's purpose. If you’re planning on raising money your goals are different than if you’re planning to raise awareness. Keep this goal in focus at all time.
- Create a specific timeline. Set down dates and goals for when you will accomplish each of your goals to make the event successful.
- Gather a strong host committee. These are friends, peers and community leaders who love your organization and can help you create a great event. A good committee will help you delegate tasks and save you time.
- Make a list of your network. Ask them to donate to your event and to help get others to donate. This might even be a way to give a local caterer great publicity in exchange for free food.
- DON’T overextend yourself. Set realistic goals. A smaller successful event can ensure that your event becomes an annual event that grows each year.
- Reach out to local celebrities. Don’t feel like you have to get Beyonce or some other A-list star in order to make your event successful. Your local mayor or local band can be a great draw.
- Give people incentives. This will give people a reason to buy tickets or donate early. Try to hit your financial goals before the event happens, that way anything you bring in the night of the event is extra.
- Don’t talk for hours. A few touching and concise visuals or videos can speak a thousand words.
- Don't forget the "second ask." Once people have given money to come to your event don't hesitate to ask again at the event. Have a leader or major donor explain why they give. Then ask everyone in the room to join them.
- Always follow up the next day. Make personal calls to attendees, and write a personal thank you note to everyone who gave.
- Get event volunteers. This way you can be networking at the event, while the logistical duties are all taken ahead of time.
