innovative fundraising

Innovative fundraising strategies for non-profit organisation events

There are many worthy causes in the modern world, but there's only so much money to go around. According to the National Philanthropic Trust, there are more than 1.5 million charitable organisations in the US alone, meaning that NGOs and Cause-Related Organisations (CROs) have to get smart when raising funds. As such, non profit organisation events need to be well-thought-out and leverage every possible resource to circumvent this intense competition. 
 

As any non-profit CEO, President, Volunteer Leader or Board Member knows, fundraising is the lifeblood of operations. Events like the Red Cross Ball make everything possible, as well as helping to engage stakeholders. They allow organisations to realise their objectives, increase their capacity, and, ultimately, help people. 

In this article, we explore innovative non-profit event ideas for raising the necessary funds to make the important work of non-profits viable and sustainable. Along the way, you'll learn the importance of diversifying your funding sources to protect your mission during uncertain times. 


Leveraging technology 

In the digital age, fundraising activities for non-profit organisations can reach new heights in terms of engagement and reach. As such, there are countless ways in which it can be leveraged to generate interest and create an army of new donors and advocates for your cause. Let's take a look at just a few of them now. 


Virtual and hybrid events

Offering the advantages of both in-person and online events in a cohesive union, hybrid events can take audience participation to the next level. When creating non profit organisation events of this kind, there are a number of different elements you can include to generate interest in your mission. The on-site options elements of hybrid events might include any of the following:

  • Community workshops - Offering direct engagement with supporters to create fundraising opportunities through interactive, meaningful connections.
  • Fundraising dinners - Providing NGOs and CROs with a platform to engage donors, showcase achievements, build relationships, and directly solicit donations in a fun and celebratory setting.
  • Volunteer training sessions - These sessions give volunteers the skills they need to become effective ambassadors and fundraisers while encouraging engagement. 

At the same time, a hybrid event's virtual elements might complement these in-person activities with any of the following online programs.

  • Webinars with guest speakers: Online presentations like these educate supporters by offering expert insight and the help that's needed to inspire donations. 
  • Virtual fundraisers: For a minimal investment, you can reach a global audience and drive donations through interactive online experiences. 
  • Live-streamed project update: Nothing inspires more contributions than live updates about how people's lives are being improved and the progress being made. 

MCI USA's involvement in Forensic Expert Witness Association (FEWA) 2020 National Conference illustrates the impact of this hybrid approach in a real-world context. This event led to the discovery of new audiences and an enjoyable, immersive experience for all in attendance. 


Mobile giving platforms

Another way in which technology can be leveraged for non profit organisation events is by including the use of the growing number of mobile giving services that exist. Platforms like Text-to-Give and GiveLively make the act of donating easier by making it possible through just a couple of taps on the giver's smartphone screen. 

Not only can these platforms be helpful in terms of meeting your event’s one-time giving needs, but they can also facilitate recurring donations and peer-to-peer fundraising. Furthermore, they can be easily integrated into your social media platforms - all of which feed into boosting your fundraising returns. 


Crowdfunding campaigns

It’s also possible to reach a large online audience by leveraging the broad appeal of crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe and Kickstarter. By sharing great visual content about your event, the work you're doing, and what is planned, you can inspire people to give small amounts of money—which can add up to meaningful numbers.

These platforms also serve as a tool for increased visibility of the causes that are important to you, allowing you to build a loyal community. Your projects remain visible on these platforms throughout the crowdfunding campaign, with real-time trackers showing potential donors how much has been given to date and how far you are from your fundraising target. 


Harnessing the power of social media campaigns

While it's not a new tool with which to spread the word about non profit organisation events and fundraising, social media does offer the opportunity to innovate. By that, we mean that there are a host of ways that it can be used to build interest in your cause and attract new donors. 

Naturally, your approach will depend much on the social media channels you choose to use, but there are many forms it can take, such as:

  • Storytelling campaigns: You can share evocative stories about the areas of the world in which you're working and the individuals whose lives you've touched with powerful visuals. This offers a visceral understanding of the challenges that some people have to face just to survive. 
  • Donation challenges: Remember the Ice Bucket Challenge for the ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) charity? Who could forget this viral sensation that raised $220m globally? NGOs can replicate this social phenomenon by getting creative and devising their own fun, viral challenge. 
  • Influencer partnerships: Whether partnering with a nano-influencer (1,000 to 10,000 followers) or a mega-influencer (1 million+ followers), non-profits can spread their message to a large and loyal following. Furthermore, if your cause is close to the influencer's heart, they may be willing to partner with you for free. 

To put the power that social media can have into context, MCI France was involved in the 2022 Paris Peace Forum. Over the two days of the event, more than 3 million Tweet (now X) impressions were made, and over 100,000 media interactions occurred.

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Creative event concepts


So, we've looked at many of the technologies that can be used to enhance fundraising events, but what of specific non profit event ideas to get the interest going? In our next section, we look at some creative concepts to consider implementing. 

Themed fundraising galas 


A themed fundraising gala typically comprises a black-tie event that follows a specific concept for the evening. It's the type of gathering that can raise a lot of money for your cause, and you'll typically invite major donors and corporate sponsors, as well as community leaders, media representatives, and beneficiaries of your work.

This type of fundraising event typically combines entertainment and auctions, which can significantly boost donations while providing attendees with a memorable experience. Themes might include masquerade balls, cultural nights, and concepts/slogans.

An example of this type of gala can be seen in MCI Netherlands' work on the TCS Summit in Portugal, which had The Dawn of the Sustainable Enterprise as its theme. The event was organised in record time, and the flowers used in it were even donated to a local project called "A Avó Veio Trabalhar" - an initiative that fights isolation for local seniors. 

Local/ Global Charity Runs 


These organised events feature participants running or walking a designated route to raise funds for a cause. Those involved will secure sponsorship donations from their friends and family, which will directly benefit the NGO or charity in question. 

However, the benefits extend beyond the funds raised on the day, as they serve to engage the community while raising visibility and awareness that endures after the event. Depending on the size of your organisation, this can be organised in one or multiple locations and covered via your social media platforms of choice. 

Cultural exchange programs


Another of the best non-profit event ideas out there is the cultural exchange program. By charging a fee for participation, an organisation can allow donors to work with them firsthand as part of an immersive 'boots on the ground' experience. Casa dos Curumins is one such NGO - that MCI Brazil has supported - that offers this opportunity. 

The great thing about these cultural exchange programs is that they often lead to increased donations, long-term support, and positive word-of-mouth. An organisation's reach and credibility can be amplified while attracting corporate sponsors who are focusing on global outreach and social responsibility. 

Next steps in reaching out for help with your fundraising events
 

With so much competition out there from so many worthy causes in the world, NGO and CROs must work not just harder but also smarter to get the funds they need. As we've covered, there are many technological resources that can be used to aid your events, and this has been a mere cross-section of the possibilities that exist.

With so much arriving in your inbox each day, you may not have the time or energy to devote to your fundraising campaigns. What’s more, setting everything up can be quite complex to say the least. That’s where the MCI team comes in, and our experts have a proven track record of attracting the interaction our clients need for success. 

To find out more about us and what we can do, take a glance at our full range of services that are designed to inspire and engage people. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to speak to us about your needs get in touch with our team today. Our experts are ready and waiting to support you on the road to success. 

MCI Content Team

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