Top 10 Fundraising Tips for NZ Schools

1. Start with Clear Goals

Before launching any fundraiser, know exactly what you're raising money for and how much you need. Specific goals ("$5,000 for new library books") motivate more than vague ones ("money for the school"). Share your goal publicly - transparency builds trust and encourages generosity.

2. Choose the Right Timing

Timing can make or break a fundraiser. Avoid competing with major holidays, school holidays, or other big community events. Early in the school year often works well, when enthusiasm is high and families haven't been hit with multiple requests yet.

3. Leverage Online Platforms

Modern fundraising platforms like Raised eliminate most of the administrative burden while expanding your reach. Online platforms make it easy for supporters to give, share, and track progress - all from their phones. This convenience significantly increases participation rates.

4. Tell a Compelling Story

People don't give to causes - they give to stories. Show how donations will impact students. Use photos, videos, and specific examples. "This $50 donation buys 10 new books that 200 students will read" is more powerful than "we need money for books."

5. Make It Easy to Participate

Remove every barrier possible. Accept multiple payment methods. Provide clear instructions. Offer flexible participation options. The easier you make it, the more people will contribute.

6. Engage Students

When students are excited and involved, parents get excited too. Let students create promotional materials, share updates, and celebrate milestones. Student enthusiasm is contagious and drives participation.

7. Use Social Media Strategically

Share your campaign on Facebook, Instagram, and school newsletters. Post updates regularly - not just at the start and end. Celebrate milestones, share photos, and thank supporters publicly. Social proof encourages more donations.

8. Thank Everyone Publicly

Recognition matters. Thank donors publicly (with permission), celebrate volunteers, and acknowledge milestones. People who feel appreciated are more likely to support future fundraisers.

9. Track and Learn

Keep records of what works and what doesn't. Which promotion methods drove the most donations? What times of day did people give? Use this data to improve your next campaign.

10. Build Long-Term Relationships

Fundraising isn't just about one campaign - it's about building a community of supporters. Stay in touch with donors, share updates on how their donations were used, and invite them to future events. Long-term relationships lead to long-term support.

Bonus Tip: Use the Right Tools

The right platform can make all the difference. Raised is designed specifically for New Zealand schools and handles payments, tracking, and communication automatically. This lets you focus on promoting your cause rather than managing paperwork.

Ready to put these tips into practice? Start your next fundraiser with clear goals, compelling stories, and the right tools - and watch your results improve.