Fundraising Tips

In need of some ideas on how to raise money for a charity? Here are 10 top tips to help boost your fundraising efforts.

1. Set out your goals

The first step to a successful fundraiser is setting clear and achievable goals. What fundraising event are you going to do? How much money are you aiming to raise? What impact will that amount of money have on the charity you're supporting? 

Set goals that are achievable, and more importantly, choose an activity that you will have fun doing. Your event could be to run a marathon, host a quiz night or organise a bake sale.

In need of some inspiration? Check out our list of fundraising ideas.

2. Set a date, location and budget

Decide when your fundraiser will take place. If your activity is something you’ll need a venue for, then choose one that best suits your activity: a church or school hall, cafe, back garden, community centre or office. Check to see if the venue has everything you may need: toilets, tables, chairs, a kitchen, lights, etc. Always mention it’s for a charity event and you might get a discount (or maybe even get it for free!).

3. Set up a fundraising page

Setting up an online fundraising page only takes a few minutes, and it’s a great way for people to donate and keep track of your journey. We recommend JustGiving; it’s free to sign up and they don’t charge any fees on individual charity donations. 

4. Tell a story

People are more likely to donate to your fundraiser if they can connect with the cause on an emotional level. Share personal stories that highlight why it matters to you. Make your message resonate with the audience by making the problem real and explain how their donations can make a tangible difference.

For instance, SCIAF was founded in 1965 by a small group of Scottish Catholics with a shared goal to help the world’s poorest people. Even though our organisation has grown since then, it’s a value we still live by today. 

5. Get active on social media

Social media is one of the most powerful tools for promoting your fundraiser. Share your event on platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to reach a wide audience quickly and easily. Encourage friends and family to share your posts and videos to broaden your reach.

6. Engage the help of your employer and/or local businesses

Many businesses are eager to support community initiatives or charitable causes. Partnering with them can provide you with sponsorships, donations, or matching funds. You can also ask your colleagues or staff to help spread the word. 

7. Ask for support, not just donations

Not everyone can donate money, but they can still contribute to your campaign in other ways. Encourage people to volunteer their time, share your fundraiser on social media, or help you organise an event. Sometimes, the most valuable contribution someone can make is through their skills or connections.

We’d be delighted to lend support by providing advice, your own fundraising pack or perhaps even some branded materials such as a donation bucket. Contact us via email or phone, or reach out to us on social media. 

8. Track your progress and celebrate milestones

Regularly update your donors on the progress of your fundraising campaign. Whether you've reached 25%, 50%, or 75% of your goal, celebrate these milestones! Highlighting these achievements can inspire others to contribute and keep the momentum going.

9. Include any donations raised offline

Your online fundraising page makes it super easy to keep track of the money you’ve raised, but don’t forget to include any donations you’ve received in person. If you’ve got a JustGiving page, you can update your campaign to include these donations. 

10. Celebrate your success

Once your fundraiser has finished, celebrate your success! Thank everyone who participated, share your final results and let people know how their contributions will make a difference. It’s also a great way to set the stage for future fundraising efforts.