Raffle tickets can make you money.
An ongoing challenge for any non-profit organization is fundraising, especially when you are competing with other non-profit organizations for donation dollars. If you have success with a fundraising project, it might be something your organization continues on a regular or annual basis. Fundraisers involving games of chance may be limited in your state or community.
50/50 Ticket
The 50/50 is a raffle where participants purchase raffle tickets, and the winning ticket splits the pot with the house. Raffle tickets are the only out-of-pocket expense. Hold the raffle during events, meetings or other functions.
Games
Sponsor games, such as bunko or bingo, where participants pay to play and have a chance to win prizes. In bingo, participants purchase one or more bingo cards. Bunko, which is a dice game, has one flat entrance fee for players. This requires a large banquet room or similar-sized area.
Calendar
A racy fundraising project is the nude or swimsuit calendar. The calendar created by the organization doesn't have to be provocative to raise money. For example, a calendar featuring puppy and kitten photographs would be appropriate for an animal rights organization.
Contest
Sponsor a contest, such as a writing contest, photography contest, holiday house decorating contest, pie-eating contest or other type of contest. Charge contestants to enter, and reserve a portion of the funds for prizes.
Donor Incentives
Encourage donors to donate to your cause by giving them recognition. This might be by creating a wall of honor, displaying plaques for donors or giving gifts to those who donate.
Grant Writing
Applying for a grant is a time-honored way for non-profits to raise money. This requires grant writing skills and locating a grant for which your organization qualifies. The Grant.gov website includes information on available grants and apply.
Jail-a-Thon
In a jail-a-thon, participants are put under mock arrest, and then plead to their friends and associates to "bail" them out. You can allow people to bid on the "convict" they want to bail out and offer prices to those with the highest bids.
Las Vegas Night
Las Vegas Night is an evening of glitz and Vegas-like casino games. This typically requires working with a company that sets up the gaming equipment and assists in the organization of the fundraiser. Make sure the laws of your state allow this kind of fundraiser.
Product Sales
There are dozens of companies offering products for non-profit organizations to sell. Options include cookie dough, greeting cards, magazines, popcorn, candy and numerous other items.
Raffle Prize
Solicit a product donation from a local company to raffle off. This might be a computer from the local computer store. The store receives exposure and advertising for the donation, while your non-profit organization profits from raffle ticket sales.
Recipe Books
Publish a recipe book, using recipes from members of the organization or the community, to raise funds for your non-profit. There are publishing companies that specialize in printing cookbooks for fundraisers and will walk your organization through the process. Some publishers don't require payment until after the books are printed and delivered for qualifying non-profit organizations.
Theme Luncheon
Another non-profit fundraising idea is to host a theme luncheon, held at a local restaurant or banquet hall. This might be a high tea, fashion show or other theme. Charge an admittance fee to attend.
