Maximise fundraising revenue with these handy hints

Running a fundraising event can be time-consuming, costly and perhaps a bit risky. If executed poorly your event can quickly turn into a wasted opportunity for your nonprofit. On the other hand, when done well, it can have a significant impact on revenue, helping you to maximise funds raised for your nominated cause. It's quite easy for event organisers to become overwhelmed when coordinating an event. There is after all a lot to do and often on a tight budget: organising a suitable venue, booking the entertainment and putting together the guest list are just a few. So here are five tried and tested approaches that will help your nonprofit reach its full potential.  

Timing your charity event

Avoid hosting your fundraising event after a major holiday such as Christmas or New Years. Your supporters will most likely be 'spent out' and you will be unlikely to receive those luscious donations every nonprofit is after.  

Make your fundraising event a must-attend

The key to holding a successful fundraising event is achieving the 'perfect' atmosphere. That is, one that is fun, dynamic, interactive and enables guests to enjoy the night's proceedings. The best way to do this is by: choosing the right location; greeting your guests with a friendly welcome; creating ambience and a bit of exciting with music, entertainment and an experienced MC. Getting on board with a mobile fundraising technology platform such as GalaBid, will also help with this, making the bidding and donation process fun, simple and competitive.  

Choosing the right volunteers

When making volunteer assignments, it is recommended that you acquire those who are passionate about your cause, are tech-savvy, have the right skill set of course, a shining personality. Holding a 'meet and greet' prior to the event is not only a good way for you to get to know your volunteers but to also keep them informed. This will ensure you start the night off on the right foot. On the night, make sure your volunteers are easy to see, so supporters don't miss out on the chance to get involved. Themed clothing or accessories actually work really well, as clichéd as they might sound.  

Launch fundraising ahead of the event

Opening your online auction, donation drive or raffle early is a great way to raise money and rally support for your worthy cause. With GalaBid's mobile fundraising platform guests are provided with the opportunity to donate, purchase tickets or bid on auction items before they even walk through the door. How great is that!

And last but not least… don't forget those leaderboards and digital displays

Many nonprofits have found it useful to keep their audiences engaged at live events by using leaderboards and digital displays. Customised leaderboards can be used to display a fantastic list of auction items, showcase the highest bidder and leading bidding amount, thank donors and show funds raised thus far. Using the totaliser and countdown timer on the digital display board encourages individuals to donate, reinforces the target goal and promotes bidding wars in silent auctions.   Want more info? Speak to a GalaBid representative now!