I was on the auction floor—not as a vendor or software executive, but as a volunteer and co-chair of my kids’ school fundraiser. That experience gave me something I hadn’t had before: a front-row seat to the complexity, pressure, and precision required to execute a truly successful nonprofit event.

A New Appreciation for What Nonprofits Pull Off Every Day

The event—SPIRIT—has been around for 27 years and supports a parish and school community of thousands of families. This year, we set an ambitious fundraising goal of $650,000 and ultimately raised just over $900,000.

That result was absolutely a team effort. I was lucky to work alongside an incredible group of co-chairs—especially the wives (shoutout to my wife Preston), who carried so much of the planning, detail work, and heart behind the event—as well as the St. Patrick’s staff, whose leadership and execution made the whole night possible. Nights like that don’t happen because of one person. They happen because a lot of people go all in.

What stuck with me most wasn’t just the result. It was everything required to get there. An event at this scale demands hundreds of small decisions, constant coordination, and the ability to spot problems before they become visible to anyone else. It’s not just about raising money. It’s about creating an experience where donors feel confident, engaged, and ready to give.

I’ve always respected the work nonprofit teams do. But being in the middle of it gave me a much deeper appreciation for how hard it is to get all of those elements right at the same time.  When an event runs smoothly, people assume it was simple. It wasn’t.

What I Learned About Fundraising on the Floor

Running an auction at this scale is a lot more complex than it looks. You’re trying to create an environment where donors feel energized, not frustrated; volunteers feel prepared, not overwhelmed; and the organization can actually maximize the moment. Balancing all three is what separates a good event from a great one.

One of the biggest lessons for me was how much the experience matters. Small moments—like how quickly someone can check in, place a bid, or check out—have an outsized impact on how people feel throughout the night. We focused heavily on removing friction by collecting more than 300 payment methods in advance and registering attendees ahead of time, which eliminated long lines and allowed the event to flow smoothly.

That attention to detail created momentum. When donors aren’t dealing with logistical headaches, they stay engaged. And engaged donors give.

Momentum Starts Before the Doors Open

Another big lesson: the event doesn’t start when people walk through the door. It starts days—or even weeks—earlier.

We opened the silent auction early and saw more than 1,000 bids placed before the event even began. By the time guests arrived, they weren’t figuring out how to participate—they were already in it. That early engagement created energy that carried through the night and pushed bids higher across the board.

It reinforced something I’ve seen across our customers as well: when you meet donors where they are and make it easy to engage early, you build momentum that compounds. Fundraising becomes less about a single ask and more about a connected experience.

Technology Should Remove Friction, Not Replace People

Using Bloomerang Fundraising’s auctions platform didn’t make the event feel less personal—it made it more engaging. Donors could track items, receive notifications, and jump back in when they were outbid, which turned passive attendees into active participants.

At the same time, the backend visibility helped our team stay agile. We could see what was working, spot items that needed attention, and adjust in real time. In a fast-moving event, that kind of visibility matters.

That’s how I think about technology in fundraising. It shouldn’t replace the human element. It should remove friction, increase participation, and give teams the tools to execute with confidence.

Sometimes the Biggest Barrier Isn’t Budget—It’s Mindset

If there’s one theme that kept coming up for me, it’s that many organizations limit themselves without realizing it. Not because they lack commitment, but because they’re operating inside assumptions they haven’t challenged in a while.

We made a series of decisions that challenged those assumptions. We invested in transforming the venue, expanded the bar setup to reduce lines, leaned into mobile bidding, and pushed harder on sponsorships. None of those decisions happened by accident. Each one required us to rethink cost, effort, and what donors actually expect from a great event.

On their own, those choices may seem small. Together, they created an experience that signaled this event—and this mission—mattered. That signal builds confidence. And confidence drives generosity.

Details Build Trust. Trust Drives Giving.

The most effective organizations I’ve encountered share a common trait: they sweat the details. Every interaction, every handoff, every decision has a purpose.

You can feel it in how donors are welcomed, how the experience flows, and how clearly the organization communicates impact. That creates trust that extends well beyond a single night.

I saw firsthand how powerful that is. When donors feel that level of care and thoughtfulness, they don’t just give more confidently—they engage more deeply. They become part of the mission, not just attendees at an event.

One Final Thought

This experience reinforced something we talk about often at Bloomerang: nonprofits don’t need to settle for “good enough.”

Great fundraising events don’t happen because people care more. They happen because teams remove friction, create momentum, and sweat the details. That’s what we saw firsthand at SPIRIT.

When the experience is smooth, donors stay engaged. When momentum starts before the doors open, energy builds. And when every detail signals professionalism, care, and purpose, trust grows.

That trust matters. Because donors don’t just respond to the mission — they respond to the experience around it.

Get those things right, and donors won’t just show up. They’ll show up bigger.

The post From the Auction Floor: What One Night Taught Me About Fundraising, Technology, and the Power of Going All In appeared first on Bloomerang.

Dear Charity Clairity,

We’re planning a fundraising event and want to make sure it actually raises money — not just attendance or awareness. We keep seeing so many different “fundraising event ideas,” but we’re not sure how to choose the right one or what really matters most in making an event successful.

What actually makes the difference between an event that raises meaningful money and one that doesn’t?

— Trying to Do This Right

Dear Trying,

Kudos to you for asking the right question, and doing so before it’s too late in the process!

You’re already ahead of too many organizations who begin with the format — gala, walk, auction, dinner, online campaign — and then move quickly into logistics — venue, catering, ticket price, program flow — before stepping back to ask what you’ve just asked.

And you’re also right to be cautious.

Because here’s something not talked about nearly enough:

Fundraising events are one of the most expensive and labor-intensive strategies nonprofits undertake.

They require significant investments of:

• Staff time
• Volunteer energy
• Upfront cash
• Opportunity cost (what else you could be doing instead)

Which means the real question isn’t just “How do we plan a successful event?”

It’s: “Is this event likely to produce a return — financial and relational — that justifies the investment?”

Start with a clear-eyed cost/benefit analysis

Before you go too far down the planning path, be sure the bang is worth your buck.

Take a step back and ask: What will this really cost us, and what is the realistic return?

Not just in dollars, but in:

• Staff bandwidth, and potential burnout
• Volunteer effort, and how it may dilute their attention
• Donor attention, and whether you’re trading ticket purchases for pure donations
• Other opportunities you may be foregoing

Events can absolutely be worthwhile. But compared to other fundraising strategies, they are rarely the most efficient way to raise money — unless they are designed with intention and the understanding they are part of a continuum of layered, complementary strategies.

If the primary outcome is simply getting people in a room, you may find you’ve invested heavily for a modest return.

Cover your costs before you count your revenue

One of the most important ways to improve your odds of success is to separate cost recovery from fundraising.

In other words: aim to cover your expenses before the event takes place.

This is where sponsorships and underwriting come in.

Think about:

• Sponsors to underwrite the overall event
• Underwriters for specific elements (e.g., reception, dinner, program, video, print materials)
• Leadership or challenge gifts that help offset costs

I’ve seen events transform financially with this one shift. Several organizations I’ve worked with secured a handful of sponsors to cover nearly all their fixed expenses. That meant every ticket sold, every auction bid, and every gift made that night went directly to the mission — not to paying off the party expenses.

That’s a very different outcome than ending the evening hoping you at least broke even.

Be intentional about who you’re bringing into the room

Not all audiences carry the same long-term fundraising potential.

So before finalizing your guest list — or your strategy for filling the room — ask:

Who are we trying to engage, and what might they do after this event?

Strong events are built around audiences with potential to:

• Increase their giving
• Become recurring donors
• Introduce others to your organization
• Deepen their involvement over time

If your room is filled primarily with people who already give at their maximum level, attend out of obligation, or have little connection to your mission — your ability to grow revenue will be limited.

On the other hand, when you intentionally cultivate a mix of loyal supporters, new promising prospects, and engaged connectors (table hosts, ambassadors), you create the conditions for both immediate and future giving.

Create mission moments that truly move people

People don’t give because they attended an event.

They give because something they experienced there made them want to help.

At some point during your event, you need to bring everything back to:

• Why your work matters (vision, mission, and values)
• Who it impacts (population and/or problem to be addressed)
• What is possible with support (specific impacts)
• When this support is needed (urgency)

This is not the time or place for broad overviews or long speeches.

It’s the time for something real, specific, and emotional:

• A story
• A voice
• A moment people can connect with emotionally

This could take many forms. For example:

• A short video featuring a beneficiary or volunteer
• A live story shared by someone directly impacted by your work
• Storyboards or photo displays placed thoughtfully throughout the venue
• Opportunities for guests to meet and interact with beneficiaries or program leaders during the reception or at their tables

What matters most is authenticity. People should feel like they’re encountering something genuine — not a performance, but a window into your mission.

And just as importantly, these moments need the right conditions: no distractions, no competing activity, and a clear signal that this moment matters.

When people feel something real — hope, empathy, inspiration, even urgency — they become far more open to giving.

Give people ways to act while they’re feeling inspired

In fundraising, timing matters.

If someone feels moved but has no immediate way to act, that energy dissipates quickly.

That’s why strong events don’t rely on a single way to give. They offer multiple, intentional pathways for people to respond in the moment:

• A fund-a-need paddle raise tied directly to your mission (e.g., “Let’s raise money tonight for a new food pantry!”)
• A thoughtfully curated silent auction, including several fund-a-need items (e.g., $25 buys dinner for a family of four; $50 buys a bag of groceries for a week; $100 delivers nutritious meals to seniors)
• A simple raffle
• Interactive elements like a wine wall or similar fun activity
• A “spontaneous offer” to buy a lunch or dinner with someone who just spoke or was featured in your video

These aren’t just add-ons. They’re extensions of the emotional experience.

The key is alignment and restraint. Choose the elements that fit your audience and reinforce your message. Too many activities can feel scattered. A few well-executed opportunities will almost always outperform a crowded agenda.

Plan your follow-up before the event even happens

Finally, remember this: the event is not the end of your fundraising. In many ways, it’s the beginning.

What you do in the hours, days, and weeks after your event will determine whether the value of everything you invested — time, talent, and treasure — continues to grow or quickly fades.

Plan in advance for:

• Prompt, personal thank-you outreach
• Clear communication of results and impact
• Invitations to stay engaged (give, volunteer, learn more, attend again)

The goal is to carry forward the feelings people experienced, and give them a way to act again.

Because events that truly raise money don’t do so only in the moment. The memories and emotions they create continue to motivate generosity long afterward.

So, what makes the difference?

It’s not choosing the “right” fundraising event idea.

It’s building the conditions where people naturally want to give — not just today, but tomorrow and beyond.

When you:

• Go in with a clear understanding of cost vs. return
• Cover your expenses up front
• Bring the right people into the room
• Move them with a meaningful mission moment
• Give them ways to act while they’re inspired
• And follow up in a way that deepens the relationship

…you dramatically increase the likelihood your event will be worth the investment.

That’s how events move from being costly obligations to becoming powerful engines for both immediate and lasting support.

Events that raise money don’t do so only in the moment. The memories and feelings they engendered continue to motivate generosity long afterwards.

So, keep trying. In fundraising, nothing is ever “a wrap!”

— Charity Clairity

The post How to Plan a Fundraising Event That Actually Raises Money appeared first on Bloomerang.

If you’re searching for fundraising event ideas this spring, you’ll find no shortage of lists.

Walks. Galas. Auctions. Picnics. Workshops. Online challenges.

The problem isn’t the lack of ideas.

It’s that most of these lists assume the idea itself is what makes an event successful.

After 40+ years working with nonprofits, I can tell you with confidence:

The format of your event matters far less than the experience you create — and what you invite people to do as a result.

I’ve seen small, simple gatherings generate extraordinary generosity. I’ve also seen large, beautifully produced events raise very little net revenue, and even less long-term commitment.

So, while spring is certainly a popular season for events, this isn’t really about spring fundraising ideas. It’s about how to use any event — this spring, later this year, or next — to:

• Inspire people with your mission
• Help them feel connected and useful
• Turn that inspiration into meaningful, lasting support

Because at its core, philanthropy isn’t about transactions. It’s about connection, meaning, and the moment someone realizes they can make a real difference. And when that happens — when people feel inspired and useful — the money follows.

Why Most Fundraising Events Underperform (Regardless of the Idea)

Many organizations start in the same place: “What kind of event should we do?”

It’s a reasonable question, but it’s putting the cart before the horse. The most important question is this: Why hold a fundraising event?

It’s essential to get clear on your objectives — what you truly want to achieve today and in the future — before you start thinking about logistics.

First, ask yourself: What are our priorities right now? Creating awareness? Building community? Raising project-specific money? Retaining or upgrading major donors? Given limited resources, you may want to consider whether other strategies fulfill those priorities more effectively and yield a bigger bang for your buck. At the very least, you’ll want to make sure your priority objectives are integrally woven into your event strategy.

[Find a framework for evaluating different strategies against each other here.]

Once you settle on an event, instead of asking:

• What’s easy to organize?
• What’s been done before?
• What seems popular or “fun?”

Ask:

• What experience will truly move people?
• How will we connect folks to our mission?
• Where will generosity naturally emerge?

Event Blueprints: Winning vs. Losing

The best events are designed around creating a meaningful, memorable experience for the people involved.

Yet too often, events are designed around what’s easiest to produce or what’s been done before. Even though they take up a ton of time, talent, and treasure, they’re essentially running on auto-pilot.

The result is usually predictable — and not in a good way.

Auto-pilot event designs lead to a few predictable outcomes:

• Decent attendance; low engagement. Active listening, learning, participating, and viscerally experiencing doesn’t happen.
• Pleasant; not memorable. The program feels routine or disconnected from the mission — people feel vaguely “noble” for attending, but they do so out of obligation rather than anticipatory or reflective joy.
• Modest giving; no growth. Money is left on the table as guests polish their halos a bit, but then tuck them away in a closet until the following year.

If you’re stuck in the past — or stuck on what board members tell you works for other organizations — you won’t notice new or uniquely “you” opportunities as they present themselves.

This is why so many “easy fundraising event ideas” don’t actually produce strong results. Not because the ideas are wrong, but because the design is incomplete.

You can’t simply copy what other people do. Rather, you must:

• Connect people to shared purpose,
• Show them impact, and
• Move them emotionally.

When you design your event with your particular vision and constituents in mind, you don’t have to push nearly as hard for the gift. People want to give.

5 Strategies Behind Fundraising Event Ideas That Actually Work (and Raise More Money)

These are the patterns I’ve seen consistently in events that not only raise money, but build lasting donor relationships. If you want your creative fundraising event to succeed, focus less on the format and more on these five strategies.

1. Start with the Experience, Not the Logistics

Before you decide whether you’re hosting a gala, a walk, or a garden party, ask:

What do we want people to feel when they leave?

Inspired? Hopeful? Energized? Connected? Proud to be part of something meaningful?

Your event should be designed backward from that desired emotional outcome.

This is where many organizations unintentionally go off track. They spend the majority of their time on venue, food, schedule, and decorations. All important — but none of these, on their own, create a meaningful experience.

A small, mission-centered dinner where guests hear directly from someone impacted by your work can be far more powerful than a large, formal event with little connection to purpose.

The goal isn’t just to host an event to check it off your to-do list. It’s to create “WOW” experiences — moments people will remember, and want to be part of again.

Remember, there’s no one reason people attend events. It’s certainly not just to give you money. If that’s all it was, they’d have simply made a contribution and stayed home. Your job is to anticipate all the reasons they may be attending, and try to ensure your guests’ needs are met.

When you get people fired up, that’s how you’ll raise more money — beyond just ticket sales — because you’ve tapped into donor passions and made them feel they matter.

2. Build in a Compelling Reason, and Opportunity, to Give

If people leave your event inspired, but unsure how to help, you’ve missed an opportunity.

Every effective fundraising event needs a clear and intentional pathway from inspiration to action.

This isn’t just about making an ask. It’s about designing a transformative experience that:

• Builds emotional connection,
• Shows people the impact they can have, and
• Gives them meaningful ways to respond — both during and after the event

At the Event: Design the Giving Moment

A strong giving moment doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built, step-by-step.

Start with a story that feels real. This might be a client or beneficiary (live or on video), an admired staff member sharing a specific moment, or an inspired donor explaining why they got involved. What matters is authenticity and specificity. One real story will do more than a broad overview ever could.

Create a focused moment of attention. If people are distracted, the message won’t land. Pause service, bring the room to attention, and signal that this moment matters. You’re not competing with the event — you’re creating its centerpiece.

Connect the story to impact. Help people understand what their gift will do. What will change? Who will it help? Why does it matter now?

Make a clear, confident ask. Someone needs to say, plainly: here’s the need, and here’s what we’re asking you to do.

Once your core giving moment is established, you can layer in giving opportunities:

• Fund-a-need (paddle raise): Often the most powerful extension of your story
• Auctions: Keep them curated and relevant
• Raffles: Simple and accessible
• Interactive elements (wine wall, etc.): These add energy and fun, if they fit your tone

The key is restraint. Too many elements can dilute focus. A few well-chosen options will outperform a crowded agenda every time.

3. Raise Money Before the Event Even Begins

One of the biggest misconceptions about fundraising events is that the primary revenue happens during the event itself.

In reality, some of the most successful events generate a significant portion of their support before anyone walks in the room.

Sponsorships are a top winning strategy — often the difference between an event that loses money or breaks even, and one that generates real net revenue.

• Seek sponsors to cover your costs, so all ticket sales are profit
• Offer underwriting opportunities for various event elements (reception, dinner, auction, video, print materials)

Table hosts, who commit to filling and supporting a table, are a way to both fill the room and your coffers. Ask key donors to buy tables and challenge their friends and colleagues to match their giving. This plays on the psychological principle of influence known as “social proof.”

Peer-to-peer fundraising events, like walks or runs, are a great example of raising money before the event starts. Participants reach out to their networks in advance, expanding your reach and building momentum before the event even takes place.

When people arrive already invested, something important shifts: they’re not just attendees. They’re participants in the mission.

4. Make It Easy, and Meaningful, for People to Participate at Different Levels

Not everyone will engage with your organization in the same way. Some will be new. Some will be longtime supporters. Some may be ready to do more, but haven’t yet been asked.

Strong fundraising events create multiple entry points:

• A first-time guest who makes a modest gift
• A returning donor who increases their support
• A highly engaged supporter who steps into a leadership role

This is especially important for small nonprofits, where every relationship matters.

The goal isn’t just to maximize one-time giving. The goal is to create pathways for people to deepen their involvement over time.

5. Follow Up in a Way That Builds Relationships (and Future Giving)

The event is not the end of the fundraising process. In many ways, it’s the beginning.

After the event is when relationships — and trust — are truly built and cemented. And trust is the foundation of all sustainable fundraising.

What you do in the days immediately following your event will determine whether attendees remain one-time participants, or become ongoing supporters. So be sure to plan this in advance — so you can strike while the iron is hot!

The period immediately after your event is when emotions are still fresh, connections are strongest, and people are most open to continuing their involvement.

Follow up quickly and personally, ideally within 24–48 hours. Whenever possible, make this feel specific to the guest, showing you know them and they’re important to you.

• Thank people for participating
• Acknowledge what they did (attended, gave, hosted, volunteered)
• Reinforce how their involvement mattered
• Include a photo or video snippet to remind them of the experience

Close the loop on results. Let people know what was raised, what it will support, and why it matters.

Invite the next step. Not everyone will give at the event — and not everyone who gave is done giving. Offer clear pathways to continue the relationship:

• A follow-up opportunity to contribute
• A visit or conversation
• A way to learn more about your work
• Opportunities to stay engaged (volunteer, advocate, social media, upcoming events)

Events should never stand alone.

How to Choose the Right Fundraising Event Idea

Once you understand these strategies, choosing the right format becomes much easier.

Instead of asking, “What are some creative fundraising ideas?” try asking:

• Which format will best support the experience we want to create?
• Where can we most naturally tell our story?
• How can we engage people before, during, and after the event?

A few formats that often work well include:

• Small, mission-focused gatherings that prioritize connection
• Peer-to-peer events that expand your reach through relationships
• Thoughtfully designed galas or dinners that center on storytelling and purpose
• Simple outdoor or community events that create shared experiences

None of these are inherently better than the others. What matters is how you use them.

If You’re Planning Something This Spring…

If your event is already on the calendar and coming up soon, you may not have time to rethink the entire format. But you do have time to strengthen it.

Focus on:

• Clarifying your message and story
• Strengthening your mission-focused giving moment
• Reaching out to key supporters in advance
• Planning thoughtful, timely follow-up

Small shifts in these areas can make a significant difference in both the immediate results and the long-term impact of your event.

A Final Thought

There will always be new lists of fundraising event ideas. Some will be labeled “easy.” Others “creative.” Others “low-cost” or “high-revenue.”

But the organizations that consistently succeed with events aren’t chasing new ideas. They’re focusing on what makes any idea work:

• Creating meaningful experiences
• Connecting people to purpose
• Inviting them to belong to something larger than themselves

When you do that well, your event becomes more than a date on the calendar. It becomes the beginning — or deepening — of a transformative relationship.

And that’s where true, lasting generosity begins.

If you’re looking for tools to help you plan, promote, and follow up on your fundraising events more effectively, Bloomerang offers solutions designed to support the entire donor journey — so you can focus on creating experiences that truly inspire giving.

The post Fundraising Event Strategies That Actually Work: How to Raise More Money This Spring (and Beyond) appeared first on Bloomerang.

Savvy fundraisers love specialty events—typically gatherings of 10 to 75 people—because they create something you simply can’t replicate at a big gala. Donors see friends they respect, meet peers they admire, and experience your mission together. There’s energy in the room. Momentum. A subtle but unmistakable sense that this is something worth being part of.

And here’s the part that should get your attention: asking for money in small group settings is the second most effective fundraising method there is (behind one-on-one fundraising).

Specialty events, often called boutique or salon events, aren’t just good stewardship opportunities. They are excellent places to raise real money. If you’re not hosting at least one or two of these a year, you’re missing out on a key strategic opportunity.

What follows are practical and field-tested tactics to help you host events that are memorable, manageable, and profitable without turning your organization into a full-time event-planning agency.

7 Benefits of Hosting Specialty Events

• Inform donors of the change and impact their support is making
• Collectively unite donors to fulfill your mission
• Meet prospective donors and recognize existing donors
• Deepen relationships between donors, staff, board, and volunteers
• Create networking opportunities for donors
• Have fun and celebrate with donors, board members, and staff
• Secure giving commitments and win back lapsed donors

Specialty events provide tremendous value

For a few thousand dollars and a little effort, you can host a classy theme party with sumptuous food and wine. Depending on the number and type of major donors you have, you may be able to raise $50,000, $100,000, or $250,000.

Compared to the enormous amount of time, effort, and money you can spend hosting a full-scale gala to raise the same amount, specialty events can be a bargain. And most of the time, one of the attendees will underwrite the event if asked.

Start the planning process early

No matter what type of event you’d like to host, start the planning process early. You want to make a good impression by hosting a meaningful event, and you’re not going to be able to do that if you’re stressed, disorganized, and scrambling to work out last-minute details.

Start by creating a yearly calendar of the events you’d like to host. Send “save the date” cards to donors at least six months before an event. Assemble a team of event planners (volunteers, interns, and one or two staff or board members) willing to organize the events. Develop an event budget and create checklists of tasks that must be done.

Hosting your first few specialty events may feel a little chaotic, but the more you do, the more manageable they become as you create systems and processes for hosting them.

Get people talking about the mission

When hosting a specialty event, have your event team think of fun and engaging ways to get people talking about your mission. A favorite among fundraisers is to create a list of interesting questions for people to answer during the cocktail hour or dinner.

If you’re hosting a light dinner, lay the questions out at each place setting and turn it into a simple game. The goal is to have fun, build relationships, and get donors talking about the issues your mission addresses, surprising statistics, key milestones, and meaningful highlights.

After the exercise, you can begin raising money, if that’s part of the event. If the discussion was effective, donors should already feel primed to give.

Themes

If you host a specialty event, consider giving it a theme. Themed events tend to be more memorable and often have higher attendance rates, especially if they are annual.

If you run a hunger relief organization, host an “Empty Plate” dinner. If you run a museum, host a luncheon inspired by a current exhibit. If you run a land trust, host a wine tasting at one of your nature preserves.

Peer-centric themes can work well for local bankers, Rotary members, American Legion members, or realtors. You might also host a “Breakfast at Wimbledon” party at a tennis club or a “19th hole cocktail party” at a golf club. When events are fun and memorable, donors return year after year.

7 Ideas for Specialty Events

• Formal or informal breakfast, lunch, or dinner
• Wine tasting, celebrity dinner, or art exhibition
• Theme dinner, event, or holiday party
• Reception lunch or dinner, or open house
• A play or musical event with a reception
• Founder’s Day brunch or President’s dinner
• Golf tournament, walkathon, auction, or festival

Call people

The single best way to get donors to attend a special event is to call them. After sending invitations and email reminders, call each attendee three to seven days before the event. Even if you leave a message, remind them of the event, confirm their attendance, and express appreciation.

Before ending the call, leave them with a “hook.” Mention something interesting that will take place, such as a celebrity guest or special announcement. This increases attendance.

If someone cannot attend, let them know you’ll follow up to schedule a face-to-face meeting to provide a program update and discuss making a gift. They may offer a gift or pledge on the phone, which is fine, but aim to secure a meeting.

Groom your donors

Relaxed and happy donors are giving donors. Prepare them thoughtfully before making an ask.

• Serve great drinks. Major donors are accustomed to premium wines and spirits. Investing in quality makes a strong impression.
• Serve great food. Offer smaller quantities of high-quality food rather than large quantities of low-quality food. Include memorable, bite-sized desserts and chocolates.
• Use buffet-style dinner service. Guests can choose portions they prefer, even with elegant cuisine.
• Create an inspiring atmosphere. Use music, décor, speakers, and intentional mingling to set the tone.
• Engage your team. Provide board and staff with a fact sheet and impact report in advance. Encourage each board member to personally thank at least five donors.

Specialty event asks: a 20-minute performance

While guests enjoy the wine and networking, you must reserve time for the core purpose of the evening: supporting the mission. Keep the entire ask segment to 20 minutes, including videos, speeches, endorsements, the ask itself, and time to complete pledge cards.

If the process exceeds 20 minutes, attention drops and donations may decline. Remember, this is a boutique gathering, not a gala.

20-Minute Ask Process at a Specialty Event

• The welcome (1–2 minutes). A board chair or notable guest welcomes attendees, thanks them, and briefly outlines what will happen next.
• The chief executive (2–3 minutes). Share a concise “State of the Organization” update focused on impact, milestones, and gratitude.
• Program endorsements (1–3 minutes). An influential donor or supporter shares why they give and plan to continue.
• Beneficiary testimonials (3–5 minutes). One or two powerful stories or a short, compelling video.
• The ask (3–4 minutes). A confident and engaging speaker presents a clear, compelling invitation to give.
• Moment of silence (optional). A brief pause allows donors to reflect before making their commitments.

Final thoughts

Specialty events succeed because they reflect how people truly give. Donors give when they feel connected—to the mission, to others in the room, and to the belief that their support matters.

Successful fundraisers design experiences that feel human and intentional. They focus on substance over spectacle. They tell meaningful stories, make clear asks, and end on time.

If you want to raise more money without exhausting your team, think less like an event planner and more like a purposeful host. Bring good people together. Share real impact. Make the ask specific. Then conclude while the energy is still high.

Because generosity flourishes in rooms where people feel inspired, respected, and proud to be part of something meaningful.

The post Specialty Events: How To Turn Small Gatherings into Big Gifts appeared first on Bloomerang.

The hard truth? According to a study from Community Brands, only 30% of event planners are fully confident that their organization has a holistic event attendee experience strategy. This means a staggering 70% of us are pouring limited budgets and precious staff hours into events without a clear plan for what matters most: the attendee’s journey.

For a nonprofit, a clunky registration process or a confusing schedule aren’t just small snags—they’re a massive missed opportunity. If you’re ready to stop guessing and start using your events to build a community of lifelong advocates, this post is for you.

This guide covers everything you need to know about nonprofit event management, including:

• Common questions about nonprofit event management
• Nonprofit event management checklist
• How Bloomerang supports groundbreaking nonprofit events

Wrapping up

With the tips in this guide, you can turn your nonprofit’s events into a cornerstone of your fundraising strategy. At the end of the day, a successful event is all about the people behind it working in harmony. Empower volunteers, support event staff, provide a positive experience for sponsors, and ensure attendees have an experience that is well worth the ticket price.

For more help planning the perfect nonprofit event, check out our additional resources:

• 20+ standout event management software tools for nonprofits. Explore event management solutions that can help you keep your planning process organized and on track.
• 19 creative volunteer recruitment ideas you should try. Leverage these effective and creative volunteer recruitment ideas to gather more support for your nonprofit events.
• Elevating nonprofit events: a strategic guide to guest curation. Discover how to curate a stellar guest experience for a memorable event.

The post The complete guide to nonprofit event management success appeared first on Bloomerang.

A fundraising event isn’t the finish line—it’s the first spark.
The real magic happens after the big night—when you turn excitement into engagement, and first-time attendees into lifelong supporters.

Because it’s not just about hosting a great evening.
It’s the connection you build afterward.
That’s where real fundraising success begins—and where too many organizations leave opportunity on the table.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to turn event momentum into lasting connection—and why the smartest nonprofits know that a great event is just the beginning.

The party may be over. But the relationship is just getting started.

You know the feeling after a big night: a full heart, maybe a little exhaustion, and hopefully a sense of pride.

But if your engagement strategy ends when the tablecloths come off, you’re missing the biggest opportunity your event created.

An event is designed to spark connection—not to complete it.
It opens a door. It gives people a glimpse into your mission, your community, and your impact.
But no matter how inspiring the evening was, lasting relationships don’t happen by accident.

Without intentional, thoughtful follow-up, even the most successful event can fizzle into a warm memory instead of a lasting partnership.

The best nonprofit leaders know this:

• Throwing a great event earns you attention.
• Following up with heart and purpose earns you loyalty.

The relationship-building work that happens after the event is where real fundraising power lives—whether you’re cultivating your next major donor, welcoming a new monthly giver, or simply making a first-time guest feel seen and valued.

The good news?
It doesn’t require magic.
It just requires a plan—and a commitment to keep the conversation going long after the last chair is folded up.

How to turn event momentum into lasting engagement

A great event opens the door. But your fundraising event follow-up is what invites people inside—and makes them want to stay.

When you’re thoughtful about what happens after the event, you turn a good first impression into the beginning of something deeper: a relationship grounded in trust, purpose, and shared mission.

Here’s how to turn that event-night energy into ongoing engagement:

1. Say thank you (and mean it)

Donors and attendees should hear from you fast—and personally.
Not just a form letter or a generic blast, but a real thank you that connects their presence to your mission.

Send a thank-you email or letter within 24–48 hours.
Mention something specific: the total raised, an emotional highlight, or a meaningful moment from the event.
If possible, have board members or staff make a few quick thank-you calls to top prospects or new guests.

The goal?
Make supporters feel like partners, not just participants.

2. Share the impact

People want to know they made a difference.
Don’t just thank them for showing up—show them what their support made possible.

Send a follow-up email spotlighting the key outcomes from your event:

• Scholarships funded
• Meals served
• Lives changed

Use photos, videos, or short supporter testimonials to bring the impact to life.

Pro tip:
Frame the event as a springboard: “Because of you, we can now [insert exciting next steps].” This shifts the focus from “the night” to “the journey they’ve joined.”

3. Invite the next step

Don’t leave the relationship hanging.
Use the momentum to invite attendees into a deeper relationship with your organization.

Share clear next steps:

• Volunteer opportunities
• Upcoming programs
• A chance to join a giving society or monthly donor community
• Personalized meetings or tours for major gift prospects

Small invitations lead to bigger commitments.
That well-timed nudge today can become a major gift tomorrow.

Sidebar: Smart fundraising event follow-up starts before the event

At Bloomerang’s GiveCon 2025, nonprofit leaders emphasized one simple but powerful strategy: Draft your post-event follow-up before the big night.

When you map out your thank-yous, impact stories, and next-step invitations ahead of time, you can move quickly after the event—while the excitement is still fresh.
It’s one of the easiest ways to turn short-term enthusiasm into long-term engagement.

Amy Funk of F+H Partners Consulting put it simply:
“Drafting your follow-up in advance doesn’t just save time—it sets you up to build real relationships while the connection is still warm.”

Want the full roadmap for designing fundraising events that build relationships from the ground up—not just great follow-up?

Grab the free guide.

Redefining event success is about relationships, not just revenue

When the final numbers come in after a fundraising event, it’s tempting to look only at the dollars.
How much did we raise?
Did we hit our goal?
Is the event “worth it” based on the night’s revenue?

Those numbers matter—but they’re only part of the story.

If you only measure success by the total raised that night, you miss the bigger picture: The real return on your event isn’t what happens during the event.
It’s what happens afterward.

True event success looks like this:

• New relationships that deepen over time
• First-time attendees who become loyal, long-term donors
• Increased lifetime giving from people who felt seen, valued, and connected after their first event experience

Lifetime value—not one-night totals—is the real measure of event ROI.

It’s easy to walk away from a successful gala thinking you raised $100,000 in one night.
But if you intentionally nurture the relationships you sparked that night, that $100,000 could turn into $1 million over the next decade.

That kind of growth doesn’t happen by accident.
It happens when you see the event not as a standalone win, but as the opening chapter of a much bigger donor journey.

Building a journey, not just an event

Events are easy to treat as moments.
Plan it, promote it, pull it off—then move on to the next thing.
But if you want your fundraising to grow over time, you can’t treat an event as a one-night stand.

A great event is the first hello.
It’s what comes next that builds real loyalty.

Every communication you send after the event—every thank-you note, every impact story, every personal invitation to get more involved—is another moment to deepen trust and connection.

Think about your post-event communication as part of a larger donor journey, not a follow-up task.
Map out how you’ll stay in touch with new and returning guests over the next 30, 60, 90 days—and beyond.
Build experiences that help them see themselves as part of your mission, not just a guest at a party.

When you do, you’re not just building events.
You’re building a movement of supporters who feel like insiders—people who care deeply about your work because you’ve made them part of the story.

The last word: Turning first-time attendees into lifelong supporters

You didn’t throw an event just to check a box—or at least, you didn’t mean to.
You hosted an event because you want more people connected to your mission, your vision, and your future.

The real success of a fundraising event isn’t measured by how full the room was.
It’s measured by how many people stayed connected after they walked out the door.

So yes, celebrate the big night.
But then get ready to build on it.

Because when you follow up with heart, strategy, and purpose, you don’t just gain donors.
You gain champions.
You gain believers.
You build a community that’s ready to fuel your mission for years to come.

The post You Threw a Great Event. Now What? appeared first on Bloomerang.

Silent auctions are a great fundraising event format if you want a unique way to engage your donors. These highly interactive experiences allow your nonprofit ample time to engage with supporters face-to-face.

This guide covers the following tips and steps to help you run a successful silent auction:

• What is a silent auction? 
• Why should your nonprofit host a silent auction?
• 10 steps to run a silent auction

First, let’s define exactly what a silent auction entails to give you a better understanding of how these events work.

Final thoughts

Planning an auction is hard work, but as a special event that engages and excites your guests, the payoff is well worth it. If you’re looking for even more tips to help you host a successful event, here are a few blog posts to check out:

• The Ultimate Nonprofit Event Planning Checklist for Success. Use this additional event planning checklist for any nonprofit event your organization hosts.
• 100 Themed Silent Auction Basket Ideas for Fundraisers. Review effective auction basket ideas in this comprehensive roundup.
• Elevating Nonprofit Events: A Strategic Guide To Guest Curation. Find out how strategically curating your guest list can significantly elevate your nonprofit’s events.

The post How to run a silent auction: 10 simple steps for success appeared first on Bloomerang.

In this guide, we’ll review the most effective raffle basket ideas in the following sections:

• Raffle basket FAQs
• Food and beverage raffle basket ideas
• Sports and leisure raffle prizes
• Raffle basket ideas for kids and families
• Seasonal raffle basket ideas
• Inexpensive raffle prize ideas
• Tech raffle prize ideas
• Community & cause-aligned baskets

Choosing the right raffle prizes for your audience will help add extra value to your nonprofit events, encouraging supporters to continue participating in your fundraising initiatives. Let’s start by answering a few frequently asked questions to understand how raffles function.

Food and beverage raffle basket ideas

Foodies will be thrilled to participate in your raffle when they can receive an amazing food or beverage basket as a prize. Here are a few delicious ideas for food-related raffle prizes:

• Wine basket. Fill a basket with a variety of fine wines, including whites, reds, and everything in between! Search for valuable vintage bottles or unique varieties donors may not have tried yet.
• Charcuterie basket. Charcuterie boards are flat surfaces covered with meats, cheese, nuts, jams, crackers, and other appetizer snacks. Include all of these items in a charcuterie basket to help one lucky winner host their best dinner party yet.
• Pastry basket. Partner with a local bakery to create a basket of fresh pastries, such as donuts, croissants, cookies, and muffins.
• Gourmet chocolate basket. Appeal to the chocolate lovers at your event with a basket featuring unique or artisan chocolates.
• Coffee basket. Include several coffee varieties, along with cute mugs, to impress the coffee connoisseurs in your audience. Consider also including gift cards to local coffee shops to allow the winner to try new spots in your community.
• Local goods basket. Partner with a variety of local businesses and restaurants to fill a local goods basket. You may receive items like artisan olive oil from a local shop, fresh bread from a bakery, and handmade candles from a nearby artist.
• Personal chef prize. This prize involves a free meal cooked by a local professional chef at the winner’s home. Connect with the head chef at a renowned local restaurant to ask if they’d be willing to donate their time to support your cause.
• Tea time basket. This package could include a variety of teas, along with mugs and jars of honey. Add an electric tea kettle or vintage teapot to make this prize even more valuable.
• Picnic basket. Provide everything supporters need to host a fun and relaxing picnic, including a blanket, tablecloth, plates, utensils, napkins, and flowers. Throw in a gift card to a local artisan grocery store so the winner can pick up food and drinks for their picnic.

Wrapping up

Hosting a raffle is an effective way to add more excitement to your fundraising events and give supporters the chance to win a valuable prize in exchange for their support. All of these raffle ideas will help boost ticket sales and secure more revenue for your cause.

And if you’re ready to take your event planning to the next level with user-friendly software to manage fundraising, Bloomerang is here to help. Contact us for support ahead of your next event.

Looking for more information to host a successful event? Start with these additional resources:

• How to Run a Silent Auction: 10 Steps for Success. Nonprofits commonly hold raffles during other fundraising events, like silent auctions. This guide will help plan an engaging and successful silent auction event.
• 40+ Unforgettable Live Auction Items that Sell Well. Interested in hosting a live auction, or looking for more fundraising event prize ideas? Check out this guide to effective live auction items and packages.
• Bloomerang Fundraising. Learn about Bloomerang Fundraising and how you can leverage the Bloomerang Giving Platform to plan well-organized events and raffles.

The post 33+ Raffle Basket Ideas to Wow the Crowd & Win Support appeared first on Bloomerang.

The art of selective invitations

We used to cast a wide net for every fundraising event invitation, welcoming everyone who bought a ticket. Those days are gone. Thanks to integrated donor CRMs, it’s now easy to segment and invite those individuals whose philanthropic history and capacity to give align with the organization’s goals. This precision guest selection ensures that every event offers an opportunity to foster deeper connections with potential high-impact donors. We’ve heard from some fundraisers that their galas flop, and they can’t figure out why. Well, the answer is that they’re not inviting the people who can afford to give generously.

Here’s how to do it now.

Using tools like Bloomerang’s wealth insights, you can now access a wealth of data to curate a guest list for your event or gala. These platforms offer insights into donors’ giving history, wealth indicators, and philanthropic interests, enabling your organization to identify and engage potential donors most likely to support your cause. This data-driven approach not only enhances the effectiveness of fundraising events—in-person, online, or hybrid—but also streamlines the planning process.

The goal of a large gala is different from a luncheon event, an online auction, or a bikeathon. So, segmenting the donors you invite to each type of event is crucial! It may seem like a brand-new idea, but it’s a foundation of modern marketing.

Case study: The power of curating your events list

Does curating a fundraising event really make a difference? The Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) exemplifies the power of strategic guest list curation. By focusing on a dedicated group of cyclists who are passionate about supporting the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, PMC has consistently achieved remarkable fundraising success. Their targeted approach, honed over 44 years, has cultivated a community of supporters that have raised more money for charity than any other athletic event nationwide.

In 2020, The PMC raised an impressive $50 million during its Reimagined event, contributing $767 million over 41 years. In 2021, The PMC set a fundraising goal of $56 million. In 2022, an innovative challenge from an anonymous couple matched every rider’s registration fee dollar for dollar, up to $2 million, boosting that year’s donation to Dana-Farber.

The PMC’s impact extends beyond mere numbers. It unites thousands of riders, volunteers, donors, and supporters worldwide into a collective fight against cancer. Participants ride in honor of loved ones affected by cancer, or as cancer survivors who serve as Living Proof® of the PMC’s mission.

By carefully curating its event audience, the PMC not only raises significant funds but also makes a meaningful impact in the battle against cancer.

Practical steps to curate a guest list

Your goal is to assemble a diverse and influential audience that contributes to the event’s overall success in fundraising, support, and overall impact. Here’s how to curate a guest list for your gala:

• Define your goals. Start by clearly defining the objectives of your event. Whether raising funds, increasing awareness, or celebrating achievements, your goals will guide your guest list.
• Identify key supporters. Use your CRM to identify individuals who have demonstrated a strong affinity for your cause. This includes major donors, board members, volunteers, and anyone who significantly impacts your organization.
• Segment and personalize. Segment your guest list based on their giving history, engagement level, and capacity to contribute. Tailored invitations ensure that your message resonates, increasing the likelihood of attendance and support.
• Leverage technology for insights. Use Bloomerang’s wealth insights tool to gain deeper insights into your donors. These tools can help you identify hidden potential among your supporters, ensuring you invite those most likely to contribute to your event’s success.
• Invite inspirational donors to inspire giving. These individuals can kickstart donations by others by contributing generously themselves. Their action sets a powerful example and fosters a vibrant culture of generosity, making it a key strategy in achieving your event’s financial goals.
• Involve your board. Collaborate with board members and event committees to tap into their networks. Board members often have valuable connections and insights into individuals who may be passionate about supporting your organization.
• Engage and follow up. After the event, continue to engage with attendees. Express your gratitude and share updates on the impact of their support and information about ongoing initiatives. Continuous engagement helps build lasting relationships that are crucial for your fundraising efforts.

Remember, curating a guest list is not just about numbers; it’s about creating a community of advocates and supporters genuinely invested in the success of the event and your organization.

Regularly review and update your guest list strategy based on your nonprofit’s evolving needs and goals.

Beyond the guest list: Integrating volunteer management to mobilize a dedicated team

An often overlooked aspect of event success is a dedicated volunteer team. Volunteers not only help run the event smoothly but act as ambassadors for your cause. Integrating volunteer management with your donor engagement strategy can enhance the overall experience for everyone involved. Platforms like Bloomerang Volunteer offer comprehensive tools to recruit, train, and manage volunteers across your organization, aligning their efforts with your fundraising goals.

Bringing it all together

Curating your guest list is more than an item on a checklist; it’s a strategic endeavor that can significantly elevate your nonprofit’s events. By combining a clear understanding of your goals with the power of data-driven insights, you can create events that not only celebrate your cause but also advance it. Integrating sophisticated CRM tools along with a thoughtful approach to engagement invites a new era of fundraising success—where every gala, auction, or bikeathon becomes a cornerstone of your nonprofit’s growth and impact.

In this dynamic landscape, the ability to harness the generosity of your community through strategic planning and engagement is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity. Let’s embrace these insights and tools to create unforgettable events that inspire generosity and foster a lasting impact.

We’d love to hear from you. Share your experience of this important subject below.

The post Elevating Nonprofit Events: A Strategic Guide To Guest Curation appeared first on Bloomerang.

Let’s explore strategies to maximize the potential of fundraising events to both retain your loyal donors and capture their friends’ attention and support.

Choosing the right event

Selecting the appropriate event is the first step in attracting friends of donors. Opt for events that foster a social atmosphere and provide networking opportunities. As you’re considering your event options, think about creating an experience that not only resonates with your current donor base but also appeals to the next generation of supporters.

• Host interactive events: Consider organizing interactive events where participants need to work together to solve a puzzle or mystery. These types of events are not only engaging but also encourage teamwork and social bonding, making them attractive to a wide range of donors, including Millennials and Gen Zers. And you can host them in person, or as virtual or hybrid events.
• Organize themed gatherings: Hosting themed gatherings that align with current trends or pop culture can capture the attention of both your traditional donor base and younger supporters. For example, a movie-themed event or a gaming night can bring together a diverse audience.
• Arrange inclusive community events: Community gatherings that celebrate diversity and inclusivity can resonate with a broad audience, including those who are passionate about social causes. Make sure your event promotes unity and addresses issues that matter to the next generation.

Using incentives to encourage donor engagement

Motivating your donors to invite their friends requires creative incentives. Here are some effective strategies to consider:

• Offer exclusive access: Offer exclusive perks or experiences to donors who bring friends along. These could include backstage passes or tours, VIP seating, valet parking, exclusive swag, meet-and-greet opportunities with your organization’s leadership, or special guests. Or try additional experiential events like interactive workshops, virtual reality experiences, or access to behind-the-scenes activities. These offerings can appeal to both your current and next-gen donors.
• Collaborate with influencers: Partner with social media influencers or advocates who align with your cause. Their endorsement can significantly increase your event’s appeal to younger audiences while also maintaining the interest of your existing donors.
• Create referral programs: Implement a referral program where you recognize or reward donors for successfully bringing a certain number of friends to the event. Publicly acknowledge their contributions during the event to encourage participation.
• Extend personal invitations: Empower your donors to personally invite their friends by providing them with branded invitation cards or personalized messages that explain the significance of their support. Make it easy for them to share the event details and their enthusiasm for your cause.
• Offer customized swag: Create personalized swag bags or merchandise that reflect the values and interests of different age groups. This thoughtful approach ensures that both traditional and next-gen donors feel a connection to your organization.

Capturing contact information

Collecting contact information from friends of donors is essential for future outreach. Here are some best practices to make sure you get this valuable data:

• Streamline guest registration: Streamline the check-in process by using a well-designed registration form or a digital sign-up platform. Ensure that you capture attendees’ contact details accurately and efficiently.
• Engage on digital platforms: Use the technology younger donors favor—like QR codes or Tap to Pay—to facilitate easy capture of contact information and donations. Make the process as seamless as possible.
• Arrange a raffle or giveaway: Organize a raffle or giveaway that requires attendees to provide their contact details for participation. This type of activity helps both with data collection and adds an element of excitement to the event.
• Use a mobile app: Employ a dedicated event app for attendees to register, access event information, and network with others. There’s a range of cost-effective options that can help streamline data collection and enhance the overall event experience.
• Employ social media: Integrate social media platforms into your event promotion and registration process. Make it easy for donors to share your event with their social networks.
• Understand your attendees: Take advantage of surveys and reporting tools to gain deeper insights into your attendees’ preferences and behaviors. Understanding what resonates with different age groups can help you tailor future events and outreach strategies more effectively.

Hosting successful fundraising events

To host a successful event that engages friends of your donors and leaves a lasting impact, consider these best practices:

• Welcome diverse entertainment: Incorporate a variety of entertainment options, including live music, interactive art installations, and thought-provoking discussions. Catering to different tastes ensures that your event appeals to a broad audience.
• Showcase sustainability initiatives: Highlight your organization’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility during the event. Underscore eco-friendly practices and initiatives that resonate with environmentally-conscious donors of all ages.
• Integrate the latest technology: Embrace technological advancements like virtual reality exhibits, interactive voting systems, or live-streaming options. These features can enhance engagement and cater to the tech-savvy preferences of younger donors.
• Share compelling stories: Communicate your organization’s mission and impact through powerful storytelling during the event. Create an emotional connection with attendees that inspires them to actively engage with your cause.
• Execute engaging activities: Incorporate interactive elements like live auctions, guest speakers, or entertainment to keep attendees entertained and engaged throughout the event. These activities enhance the overall experience and encourage participation.
• Facilitate networking opportunities: Encourage networking opportunities by setting aside designated areas or activities that encourage attendees to connect, share their experiences, and form new relationships. These interactions can be instrumental in gaining new supporters.

Making it easy to donate

To maximize your fundraising event’s effectiveness, consider offering multiple payment options that address the preferences of everyone attending—whether they prefer traditional methods, digital wallets, or contactless payments:

• Facilitate multiple payment options: Make sure you can capitalize on donors being inspired by your cause, by accepting donations of digital wallets, credit/debit cards, checks, and cash. That way, all your attendees—whatever their age or technological inclination—can contribute comfortably.
• Promote digital wallets: Encourage the use of digital wallets with Apple Pay and Google Pay by highlighting their convenience and security advantages in your event communications.
• Contactless payments: Take advantage of one of the newest—and arguably, one of the easiest payment methods to implement and use—Tap to Pay.
• Provide clear direction: Ensure that donors who may not be familiar with digital wallets or contactless payments receive clear instructions. Offer guidance and support to ensure a smooth donation process.

Stewarding your donors’ friends

Once you’ve captured the attention of your donors’ friends, it’s crucial to nurture and steward these relationships for the long term. This requires a personalized approach that acknowledges the diversity of your donor base. Donors who participate in events are more likely to continue supporting the same organization in the future by fostering a stronger connection between donors and organizations. Here are some best practices:

• Personalized follow up: When sending follow-up communications, acknowledge the specific interests and preferences of different segments within your donor network. Tailor your messages to resonate with both your current and next-gen supporters. Highlight the impact their contributions will make and express how much you value their involvement.
• Keep communication flowing: Keep friends of donors informed about your organization’s activities and achievements through regular newsletters, updates, or on your social media platforms. Engage them in the ongoing narrative of your cause.
• Cultivate relationships: Foster a sense of community by inviting friends of donors to exclusive events, volunteer opportunities, or specialized programs that deepen their connection to your organization’s mission. Building a sense of belonging can transform them into loyal supporters.
• Engage virtually: Host online forums or webinars that make it easy for donors and their friends to participate actively from the comfort of home. These digital engagements can help maintain the interest of younger supporters while still engaging traditional donors.
• Share impactful testimonials: Share impactful testimonials from beneficiaries of your organization’s work. These stories should showcase how contributions from both long-time donors and newer supporters have made a difference.

The last word

Fundraising events are powerful tools that can significantly expand your donor network by leveraging the influence of your existing supporters. By carefully selecting the appropriate event, implementing effective strategies to encourage donor engagement, crafting creative incentives, embracing technology for data collection and donations, and tailoring your stewardship efforts, you can strengthen your fundraising efforts and create a lasting impact on your cause.

Embrace the potential of fundraising events to engage supporters of all generations and broaden your network of support. With the right strategies, you can inspire and retain donors of all ages, ensuring a sustainable future for your organization.

The post Expanding Your Donor Network Through Fundraising Events appeared first on Bloomerang.

The COVID-19 pandemic decreased use of cash and checks and increased the use of contactless payments, like digital wallets. Additionally, with younger generations’ preference for digital wallets, nonprofits need to implement new fundraising technologies to streamline the donation experience, capture donations easily in any format, and enable donors to give when they’re inspired.

“We’re thrilled to be the first donor and volunteer management platform to deliver Tap to Pay to market–connecting nonprofits with the next generation of donors, making it easier for them to raise funds and engage with new donors,” said Dennis Fois, chief executive officer of Bloomerang. “Our 2023 Fundraising Planning and Climate Report found nonprofits’ staffing constraints is one of the most important factors in determining fundraising performance. Tap to Pay helps nonprofits to raise more, faster, at fundraising events to maximize their impact.”

Using Tap to Pay, nonprofits can:

• Save time: Eliminate manual data entry and process donations faster to save time for both the nonprofit and the donor–a key pain point for payment processing.

• Increase giving: Meet donors where they are and offer preferred payment methods so nonprofits never have to say “no” to a potential gift.

• Strengthen relationships: Acknowledge and nurture donors and support their stewardship efforts more easily with data flowing automatically from the Bloomerang mobile app into the Bloomerang CRM.

Tammy Hammond, chief product officer at Bloomerang, said, “We know that for nonprofits, building relationships with donors often happens in person and in the moment. We are excited to bring Tap to Pay functionality to our customers to more easily and simply process donations and record the transactions from their mobile phone at the point of interaction.”

Built on the Bloomerang Donor Management platform and PCI-compliant Bloomerang Payments processor, Tap to Pay’s functionality supports donations through credit cards or digital wallets, including Apple Pay and Google Pay. It will be generally available for this year’s giving season and is free with Bloomerang Payments. Fundraisers can utilize Tap to Pay on any NFC-enabled Android device or iPhone XS and later using the Bloomerang mobile app.

This latest innovation supports Bloomerang’s vision to deliver the fundraising platform of the future. Bloomerang recently launched Bloomerang Volunteer, following its acquisition of InitLive in March 2023, to expand nonprofits’ relationships with supporters. The integration of Bloomerang’s donor management platform and volunteer management platform offers a comprehensive view of supporter engagement in one place.

Learn more about how Tap to Pay will enable nonprofits to save time, increase giving, and strengthen relationships, here.

The post Bloomerang Supercharges Event Fundraising for Nonprofits with its Tap to Pay Solution appeared first on Bloomerang.