How to Create a Unique Fundraising Event Idea

As an NPO, you are probably always trying to come up with new and inventive ways to fundraise. Most organizations love the idea of hosting events, but frequently fundraising events end up being time and money consuming, with no real benefit for all the effort. To organize a successful fundraising event, your team must first develop an event idea. But what exactly does that mean? Here are some of our tips:
 
1. Purpose
First of all, your team must first come up with the purpose of the event. What is the main goal? Is it to raise funds and meet a financial objective? Do you want the event to be for networking or to gain sponsors? Before you begin any plans on a concept or theme, you must first determine the reason that you are hosting the event in the first place. Ensure that the purpose of your event also aligns with your organization’s overall mission.
 
2. Budget
You must work with your financial team and board of directors to establish an appropriate budget for the event. Knowing how much you can spend for in this activity will play a large part in coming up with what kind of concept you pursue for the fundraising event.
 
3. Target Audience
Who will be attending your fundraising event? Do you want to focus on individual sponsors or corporate donors? Once you define a broad category for the types of guests you will invite to the event, brainstorm various ideas or themes that might resonate with this group.
 
4. The ‘It’ Factor
To make sure that your audience will spend their time at your fundraising event, try to determine something one-of-a-kind that attracts guests in. This could be anything from a specific person who gives a keynote address, a particular location or an activity that will take place during the event. Make sure your team also uses personal connections, this is always a good idea!
 
Additionally, determine some ways for your fundraising event to be interactive for the guests in attendance. Finding a way for your donors to be actively involved and invested will ensure greater success!