How to make your fundraiser a win-win... The surest way to raise more funds is by offering your supporters a discount. When looking at products to sell, pay special attention to those that have the potential to save your customers money. Typical products in this category include make-it-yourself type products such as powder drink mixes. Discount / savings cards sponsored by local merchants are another popular idea which offer savings that far exceed the price paid for the card. Your customers get to support your cause while saving money, and your group raises much needed funds - a true win-win.
Secrets to eliminating risk and headaches... When it comes to product based fundraisers there is always the risk that your group may be unable to resell all of the products that it purchases. This risk can be mostly eliminated by taking orders in advance. Collecting money upfront further reduces potential headaches which sometime occur when customers abandon their orders. Many believe that collecting money in advance will reduce the overall number of orders placed. However, your group needs to consider the extra effort involved in collecting payments after the sale. Remember, money doesn't need to be collected at the time the order is placed by the customer, but should be collected in full prior to your group making its final order with the fundraising supplier.
How to generate ongoing income... Here's an idea for raising more funds year round with reduced effort - sell a product that your supporters already consume on a regular basis, and offer the opportunity for monthly reorders. Be sure to keep the reorder process as simple as possible, with consistent order and delivery dates. For example, monthly orders could be due by the first Tuesday of each month, with deliveries made on the third Tuesday. As an added bonus, many groups and their supporters feel less pressured with reorders.
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