Fundraising Ideas

 

1. Kickstart with your Loyal Patrons

It is more likely than not that you already have a base of advocates that want to support the work of your organization. Reach out to these loyal friends, family and advocates of your work to get things going. 

 Use appeals to share your appreciation for their support. Finish it up with a story that highlights how that highlights that value of your organization, and you’ve got yourself a gripping appeal. 

2. Spread the net using online platforms - a Facebook/Instagram/TikTok Fundraiser

It’s almost impossible to ignore platforms like Facebook, Instagram & TikTok and they are a great way of spreading your message quickly amongst friends of friends and those just interested in your kinds of events/projects.

When looking to raise money for your arts organisation, take advantage of the available tools like Facebook Fundraisers.

You can also use the same Facebook Fundraiser for your organization on Instagram with the new Instagram donate stickers. 

3. Hold an Auction

Auctions are popular fundraising events for all kinds of nonprofits.

Get creative and host an online auction for your arts organization as a way to engage and connect with your supporters. 

Online auctions are essentially a virtual silent auction. You can set up a website that includes all of your items you are auctioning off. Participants can register their credit card information and place bids on the item listing in a specific time frame. 

Choose unique auction items. Try enlisting artists to create a piece of art for your event, or auction off posters signed by the cast of your latest show. You could even choose a few choice costumes and set pieces you have stored at your theatre or host a trash art auction. 

Engage local artists to create art from recyclables in their homes and auction the pieces out during the online event. You could even include digital copies of never before seen photos of past shows or exclusive recordings of rehearsals. 

Just remember that you should be considering the giving capacity of your donor database along with their interests. 

4. Host an Online Course

Artists and arts organizations have been largely impacted by performances and events across the country being canceled, and many artists have lost work and compensation. 

Teaching art by hosting online courses has become a viable option during this time. There are tons of parents that are searching for activities to keep their kids busy while they’re cooped up inside. 

Artist-led programming and online exhibitions are ways to keep income coming in, while still being able to teach and share art across the community. Consider asking staff members or volunteers if they are interested in teaching a 101 arts course online based on their expertise. 

5. Raffle Off 1:1 Lessons

Similar to auctioning off items, you can offer 1:1 lessons or a mentorship call in a raffle. 

This would involve setting up one-on-one virtual conversations with your art’s organisations local celebrities. This may be some of your lead performers, popular visual artists, or directors. These sessions can be of great value to high school theatre students who have likely lost their programs due to school cancellations, as well. 

This idea is a way to not only make personal connections in your community but raise money while you do it. 

6. Share your journey by making it personal!

Local creativity is something that people want to be a part of! Show your supporters and audience behind the scenes of your organization. Host a virtual Q&A with available members of your performing arts group. You can ask for donations throughout the virtual event or charge a small fee for attending the Q&A.

This is a great opportunity to share your organisation’s story while engaging both your donors and fans.

7. Offer Entertainment

Do what you do best, give ‘em the old razzle-dazzle.

Depending on the type of arts organization, try creating an online event that plays to your staff and volunteer’s talents. 

Whether that’s hosting a film festival, virtual art show, or open-house karaoke night, offer your supporters a way to continue to enjoy the hard work and talent of your team. Livestream the event with hourly donations goals, and engage supporters new and old. 

8. Create a Social Media Campaign

Now more than ever, people are using social media to connect with their friends and favorite organizations. 

If you create the right campaign, social media can help your organization raise a lot of money and expand your reach in a short amount of time.

Start your campaign with an open mind. You don’t need to spend hours every day on social media to make your message shine; all you need is consistency. 

• Set aside 15-30 minutes a day on your social media sites to engage with your followers
• Add a “Donate Now” button to your Facebook page
• Recruit local businesses and social influencers
• Above all else, authentically share your work and your impact with pictures, videos, and metrics

Creating an intentional social media campaign can be a way to share your message in a different medium than you may be used to, allowing you to direct new traffic to your website.

 9. Sell a Space on your platform, programme etc

Advertising space can be a real draw when you have a very specific audience. people are using social media to connect with their friends and favorite organizations.