What It Takes to Plan a Non-Profit Fundraiser – You May Be Surprised by the List!

​Nonprofit fundraisers play a vital role in securing the necessary resources and funds for organizations to fulfill their missions and create long-lasting, positive impacts. Planning a successful fundraiser requires careful consideration, a group of dedicated individuals and meticulous planning.

​While there are a plethora of details and steps to follow, defining fundraising goals is always the best place to start when planning a non-profit fundraiser. This involves identifying specific financial targets, the purpose of the fundraiser, and the programs or projects that it will support.
 
Next, think about what would motivate people to support your organization, and begin to build creative and engaging fundraising ideas that align with your cause and resonate with your target audience. Do your followers prefer fancy gala dinners? Are they active and willing to participate in a charity run? Do they prefer online options such as a crowdfunding campaign? Select an idea that suits your resources, capacity, and the preferences of your donor base.
 
Once you have an idea of how you will gather your followers and supporters, begin working on a dynamic event timeline. This timeline should outline all the key tasks leading up to the fundraiser. Set specific deadlines for each task, including securing a venue, arranging permits, and contacting and hiring vendors. This timeline should also include a communications and marketing plan for your event’s promotion.
 
All fundraising events require a dedicated team of volunteers who can serve as ambassadors for your brand and are passionate about your cause. Start your volunteer search early, contacting interested parties often and consistently.
 
Offset event costs by securing sponsors and event partners. Approach local businesses, corporations, and individuals who share your organization’s values and may be interested in sponsoring or partnering with your event. A variety of sponsorship levels and benefits are always a good way to attract donors.

BIG DEAL Company has a proven Non-Profit Fundraising Plan​

BIG DEAL Company has worked with dozens of organizations, helping them build creative and engaging events and fundraising campaigns. Our approach goes beyond showing up to staff an event. We offer full-service support and are always thoughtful with non-profit budgets!
 
Below is a list of minimal planning services typically needed for a non-profit event:

• Pre-planning meetings
• Venue RFPs and contract negotiation
• Site Visits
• RFP creation for any partners not yet hired
• Vendor solicitation
• Vendor contract negotiation
• Messaging/PR Documents Assistance
• Rental recommendations
• Event planners for on-site support and management 
• Event lead to attend planning meetings
• Shared spreadsheet template for event planning and budgeting
• Creative brainstorming for theme concept
• Event timeline management
• Check-in table and staffing
• Collaboration with volunteer coordinator
• Communication with Security, Photographer, Videographer, Band, Rentals, and other vendors/partners
• Drawing assistance
• Attend and support the Development Director with Planning Committee Meetings
• Event and fundraising promotion through Big Deal's mailing list (5000+ subscribers)
• Cross-posting and promotion across all Big Deal social media channels
• Event posting across 70 listings channels
• Additional creative touches from Big Deal

 
Other support services often needed for a successful event:

• Logo creation
• Event sponsorship package creation
• Marketing designs
• Program, paddle raise cards (design and printing)
• Social media
• Advertising support
• Media partnerships
• Press Release writing and distribution
• Event signage
• Silent auction item solicitation
• Sponsor solicitation
• Bartending services

The average non-profit event requires roughly 150-300 planning hours – but it is all time well spent, especially when non-profits are able to reach their fundraising goals!
 
If you are a non-profit that would like event and planning support, please reach out to our team of professionals. We have worked with a plethora of local non-profits and can help you create a memorable and successful event!

As a collective of experts, BIG DEAL Company specializes in creativity. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! 
BIG DEAL Company makes business personal by bringing JOY to the job in everything we do.
​As purveyors of fun with BIG DEAL, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority!

Contact BIG DEAL Company
​​*** Bringing Joy to the Job ***
Phone: 970-613-1455  or  303-886-3068
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