Guest blog post by Tiffany Manning Volunteer, University of Florida
Nonprofit organizations are funded through various revenue streams, including fundraisers and donations. It is important to be creative and think outside of the box, especially in a challenging economy. Now more than ever nonprofits need to be strategic and innovative while maintaining cost effectiveness. Providing your audience diverse opportunities to get involved or donate will keep them enticed while attracting new donors.
Below are some tips on how to bring in the money:
Follow the money:
Many nonprofit leaders feel that they are doomed because of the current financial positions of most people across the country. But the truth is nonprofits can still raise money, even in these trying times. Nonprofit leaders should target businesses and markets that are still doing well during these tough times.
Pound the pavement
Go back to the fundamentals.
Target new donors while cooperating with committed donors.
Be reasonable. Understand that everyone is facing financial setbacks as well.
Be specific. Inform new donors of exactly what you need and where their donation will go.
eBay: Selling items on eBay is an effortless cost effective way to raise money for a nonprofit. You can sell just about anything on eBay, especially items donated to your nonprofit. However, there are guidelines for nonprofits on eBay. Nonprofits can sell items through direct sales of auction items or through Community Selling. More information about how to get your nonprofit started on eBay can be found on the website.
Be open to new ideas
Special events, cocktail receptions and/or a Gala are all great ways to raise money for a nonprofit. However, be extremely careful not to spend more money than you will make. Your events should match the size of your organization, if you cannot fund a gala for 1,000 people do not plan one. Make sure you get a “Bang for your buck.”
What are some creative ways your organization has raised money?