Once you’ve established that hosting an event is the best route to take, the following factors when hosting a fundraising event will help guide your organization in the right direction.
Set a Goal and Budget
Set yourself up for success by setting up a single goal that’s achievable, specific, and measurable. Don’t forget the budget either. If you’re hosting a ticketed event, do you know how much guests are willing to pay? Know a price point for attendees before figuring out a budget.
Choose the Right Event
Your event should reflect these things:
- Your mission and brand
- Your budget
- Your goal
- Your demographic and audience
- Your expertise
- Your volunteers and staff
Have a community of volunteers and supporters before you begin. If this is your first event, it’s best to avoid hosting anything large. Plan a few smaller events to gain expertise, confidence, and a community to back you before throwing a large-scale event.
Promote, Promote, Promote
Did I mention that you need to promote your event? Use social media, your website, email, and print to advertise and communicate that an event is happening. Have your corporate sponsors promote as well using an app or their website. Ask supporters who are passionate about the project to promote the event on their personal social media.
Design an Experience for Supporters
You want to inspire your donors at your fundraising event, and here are some ideas on how.
- Go green and only send out paper to those who need it. Make ticket sales online only.
- Focus on inviting the correct people.
- Make your invitation compelling and relating to your cause—set early-bird ticket prices and exclusive benefits for those who register early to create a sense of urgency.
- Send thank yous to your supporters immediately.
- Urge ticket-buyers to spread the word.
Think outside of the box to create a memorable event and educate your supporters. Give away goodie bags catered to your cause. For example, pack your goodie bags with a candle, water bottle, and branded matches for an event raising money for your local fire station.
You want your supporters and guests to walk away with a memory they’ll keep for a lifetime. That’s why it’s important to recall these factors when hosting a fundraising event.