10 Creative Ways Nonprofit Raise Money

What do Nonprofits do? They help communities in need. How? Nonprofits raise money with fundraising campaigns and grants. Are you running a nonprofit or planning to start one? Wondering how to effectively and creatively raise money for your cause? Fundraising for operations and programs is a constant priority, especially for newer nonprofits striving to gain traction. It’s essential to explore different strategies to build a robust financial foundation and achieve your goals.

To help you succeed, GrantWatch has put together some valuable insights on launching innovative and effective fundraising campaigns. And to that end, we have also compiled a list of 10 powerful ways nonprofits can raise money. These strategies are designed to inspire and guide you in developing creative fundraising efforts that will make a significant impact on your organization’s success. Check them out and find the perfect approach for your nonprofit’s needs!

Creative Money Raising Campaigns

Nonprofit organizations need funding, therefore nonprofits raise money. While absolutely true, this statement is too broad and provides no detail. It’s all well and good to say that nonprofits need money but the real crux of the matter has to do with HOW. How does a nonprofit get funding? Is there more than one way to raise money and if so, how many funding sources can you pursue?

Diversity is the key. It is important to have numerous funding sources for your nonprofit. What’s more, diversifying your nonprofit’s income sources protects you, your nonprofit, and the community or communities it serves. We exist in a rapidly changing society. By having multiple revenue streams, you ensure financial stability even if one source diminishes. Let’s unpack the 10 fundraising methods that the expert staff at GrantWatch selected.

1. Memberships

Trade association memberships are a good source of funding. In this case, members pay a fee in exchange for certain membership benefits. Then, monthly, quarterly, or annual dues are collected. It’s a passive form of fundraising.

2. Online Fundraising

Next, the internet provides excellent channels for nonprofits to raise money. Passive fundraising activities include crowdsourcing and pop-up donation boxes. Some nonprofits actively raise money online with events like online auctions, classes, and game night competitions.

3. Offline Fundraising

Additionally, offline fundraising personally connects you with your donor base. Special events are held and guests can pay for admittance. From there, the event can take on any theme you wish. Consider casual get-togethers as well as formal dinners.

4. In the Mail

While many of us live most of our working live much of our working lives online, there is still something to be said for the power of the US Postal Service. Many organizations still rely on donations from private and corporate sponsors via physical mailers. Nonprofits who solicit donations with snail-mail campaigns typically have an established donor base though.   

5. Recurring Donations

Establishing recurring donations provides an ongoing revenue stream. This type of donation is where donating occurs at regular monthly, quarterly, or annual intervals. Donations are also usually automatically deducted from donor accounts.

6. Charity Events

You can have fun with this one, and again, you can go casual or formal. Charity events provide great public exposure, and the bigger, the better! From galas and golf days to seminars and workshops, the possibilities are enormous and is the yield.

7. Raffles & Auctions

Online or offline, raffles and silent auctions are perfect options for getting people to donate both their time and money. Make the raffle or auction prize something you know your donors will want and half the work is done for you already.

8. Sales

Is there anyone who hasn’t attended or hosted a bake sale? Nope, everyone knows bake sales mean yummy cupcakes. However, you could also sell branded merchandise to bring in additional funds. Simple ribbons, pens, fidget spinners, and badges are go-to items. But you might also consider something more upscale and substantial like a cookbook.

9. Sponsorships

Of course, sponsorships are an excellent way for nonprofits to raise money. Reach out to your local Chamber of Commerce and partner with a peer. There are plenty of established nonprofits and businesses that can act as a sponsor. It also isn’t bad for your credibility as well

10. In-kind Donations & Grants

Finally, we reach the heart of how nonprofits raise money. Applying for in-kind donations and grants is the best way for nonprofits to fundraise. Grants vary in size from a few hundred dollars to awards in the millions. In addition, sometimes goods and services are donated as well. GrantWatch is a database that many grant seekers use to find funding for their nonprofits. We are here to help you find and organize all your funding sources. With 21 features, all designed to make your search easier, GrantWatch has your back! More than that, if you need a grant writer, we recommend our sister site. You can hire a professional at GrantWriterTeam by placing an ad for your organization.

Grants to Help Nonprofits Fundraise

1. Nonprofits for Programs that Benefit Communities – Grants to nonprofits to meet a range of needs in communities served by the funding source. The primary focus is education. However, arts and culture, human welfare, and civic affairs programs will also be considered.
2. Nonprofits to Streamline Their Data Management – In-kind support to nonprofits. The goal is to assist eligible nonprofit organizations by providing them with a technological upgrade from their current spreadsheet-based donor management system
3. Projects Addressing Breast Cancer Issues – Grants to nonprofits for programs addressing breast cancer. Funding is for projects with a focus on outreach, education, research, detection, and treatment. 
4. Artists’ Cooperatives to Conduct Fundraising Activities – Opportunity for nonprofit arts organizations and artists’ cooperatives to carry out fundraising activities. Eligible activities include direct solicitations of companies, foundations, and individuals through an annual or special campaign.
5. Charities to Participate in Fundraising Campaign – Opportunity for nonprofits to participate in a fundraising campaign. The opportunity supports local charities serving the community in a wide range of focus areas.

Grants and Opportunities for Nonprofits

1. Nonprofits for Programs and Projects that Benefit Residents – Up to $2,000 to nonprofits for programs and projects that benefit residents. The program facilitates fundraising for organizations that have an impact on the lives of local residents.
2. Participate in a Professional Philanthropy Development Workshop – Opportunity for cultural workers to participate in a professional development workshop to expand knowledge and hone fundraising skills.
3. Nonprofits for Community Benefit Projects – Grants to Minnesota nonprofit organizations in eligible areas for projects that benefit the local community. 
4. Individuals to Participate in a Business or Nonprofit Development Program – Opportunity for business training, mentorship, and professional networking initiatives for individuals. The program helps entrepreneurs launch nonprofit organizations.
5. Events that Promote Music Education – Grants of up to $1,000 to Alberta qualified donees to promote music education through workshops, festivals, camps, and programs. All funded events must be public. 

The Bottom Line

As you can see, there are multiple ways your nonprofit can raise money. When you leverage these 10 creative fundraising strategies, your nonprofit can secure the necessary funds to continue making a positive impact in your community. Whether you’re just starting out or enhancing your current fundraising plan, these insights provide you with the tools and inspiration needed to succeed. What’s even better are is the grant list we added for our loyal readers. You read that correctly, there are even grants to facilitate fundraising! Try a few of these creative approaches and watch your nonprofit thrive. Remember, every dollar raised brings you one step closer to achieving your mission and helping those in need.

About GrantWatch

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