Which Type Of Fundraising Event Is Best For Your Nonprofit?
Most nonprofits rely on fundraising to generate the revenue necessary to pursue their mission so they can create meaningful impact in the communities they serve. With so many fundraising options available—galas, charity runs, auctions, and peer-to-peer initiatives, how do you decide which type is the best fit for your organization? We’ll break down what each fundraiser is and their pros and cons so you’ll have a good idea of what would be best for your organization’s next fundraiser.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Type of Non-Profit Fundraiser
A non-profit's fundraisers' success is a culmination of strategic planning, goals, donor relationships, time management, resources, and marketing. Choosing the right fundraising event format that aligns with your nonprofit’s audience, budget, and mission not only increases your chances of achieving your fundraising goals, but it also helps you build stronger, more meaningful connections with your supporters.
Key factors to consider:
Your mission⎯Align the event with your organization’s misson.
Target audience⎯Who are your donors and participants, and what do they enjoy?
Available resources⎯Assess staff time, budget, and volunteer support.
Fundraising goals⎯Calculate your desired return on investment (ROI).
Galas and Benefit Dinners
Galas and benefit dinners are formal events that bring together donors, sponsors, and community leaders for an evening of entertainment, dining, and fundraising. These often feature auctions, musical performances, and guest speakers.
Pros:
High revenue potential⎯Galas can generate significant donations through ticket sales, sponsorships, and auctions.
Networking opportunity⎯They build deeper relationships with major donors, corporate sponsors, and community leaders.
Brand visibility⎯A well-marketed gala enhances your nonprofit’s profile and attendance.
Cons:
Resources⎯Gala coordination requires significant staff and commitment from volunteers.
High upfront costs⎯Venues, catering, and entertainment can strain smaller nonprofits’ budgets.
Exclusive audience⎯Galas might not attract younger audiences who tend to prefer more laid-back, casual events.
In-Person & Silent Auctions
Auctions—whether standalone or part of a gala allow supporters to bid on items, experiences, or travel packages, with proceeds going to your nonprofit. Online auction platforms have made these events more accessible than ever, especially for those that want to donate or attend, but aren’t able to do so in-person.
Pros:
Customizable⎯Auctions offer flexibility in format (in-person vs. online vs. silent).
Fundraising goal⎯Unique and exclusive items attract higher bids.
Cross-promotional opportunities⎯Partner with local businesses or artisans for donated auction items.
Cons:
High-quality and in-demand items⎯Securing sought after experiences and luxury travel packages will help excite bidders and drive up donations.
Time-intensive⎯Coordinating items, bids, and logistics can be time-intensive.
Highly competitive⎯Many nonprofits compete for the attendance.
Charity Runs, Walks, or Rides
Charity runs, walks, and bike rides are great fitness-themed events for exercise enthusiasts and to attract community participation no matter your fitness level. These active fundraising events promote health and wellness, while encouraging participants to exercise for a good cause. Whether it’s a 5K, a scenic bike ride, or a run/walk, these events are highly adaptable and can be tailored to fit your audience, location, and budget. They also offer great opportunities for team-building, volunteer involvement, and local sponsorships. Offer virtual options so supporters worldwide can watch and donate.
Pros:
Community engagement⎯Attracts a wide range of participants, of all fitness levels.
Scalable⎯You can cater these events to both small and large groups.
Cons:
Weather-dependent⎯Outdoor events have risks of postponement or low turnout due to bad weather.
Logistical complexity⎯Outdoor events usually require permits, routes, safety measures, and on-site coordination.
Themed Events
Themed fundraisers add a fun and creative twist to traditional giving events, making them more memorable and engaging for attendees. By centering the fundraiser around a specific theme, organizations can spark interest, encourage participation, and create a fun atmosphere that aligns with their mission or audience. With a themed fundraiser, you can have everything from the decorations, entertainment, attire, and food to align so that it’s an immersive experience.
Pros:
Increased Engagement⎯A fun, creative theme can generate excitement and increase attendance.
Memorable⎯Unique themes that the attendees love, will help the event stand out, leading to word-of-mouth and repeat attendance.
Multiple fundraising opportunities⎯Themed games, auctions, raffles, or contests can create multiple revenue streams.
Social sharing⎯Attendees are more likely to share photos and experiences from a themed event, increasing visibility on social media.
Cons:
Higher costs⎯Decorations, entertainment, and themed food may require a bigger budget.
Planning complexity⎯Coordinating all elements around a theme can take more time and resources.
Community Events
Community events like festivals or local fairs create a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere that encourages participation from everyone. They offer opportunities for face-to-face engagement, storytelling, and community building, all while generating donations through ticket sales, food vendors, raffles, or sponsorships. Community fundraisers are also great for local support, especially if you’re fundraising for a school.
Pros:
Broad appeal⎯Community fundraisers often attract a wide range of participants including families and local businesses.
Local support⎯These events build goodwill and strengthen relationships within your community.
Partnerships⎯Collaborating with local vendors, organizations, or performers can reduce costs and expand your reach.
Cons:
Permitting & logistics⎯Securing public spaces and meeting local regulations may involve extra paperwork and costs.
Lower individual donations⎯Compared to galas or auctions, community events may yield smaller per-person contributions.
Event fatigue⎯If organization in your community have frequent fundraisers, it may be harder to stand out or attract attendees.
Choosing the best fundraising event for your nonprofit starts with understanding your audience, keeping your mission at the forefront, and maximizing your resources.
Zero Risk Auction Items & Travel Packages
At BlueTree, we have curated the most sought after travel packages and experiences so you have amazing auction items for your attendees to bid on. Choose from our wide selection of consignment auction items, at zero risk to your organization! Contact us to learn more about our auction packages and how we can make your next event one to remember.