These fundraisers produce the largest income... Although there is an infinite number of fundraising options, product based fundraisers continuously produce the largest income. According to the Association of Fundraiser Distributors and Suppliers (AFRDS): "Schools and youth groups raise nearly $2 Billion each year through sales of popular consumer products. (Girl Scout troops alone earn $75-120 Million per year selling cookies.) While there are a number of fundraising options available, product sales are consistently the most effective approach to fundraising."
The secret behind Girl Scout cookies... One of the often overlooked secrets behind the success of Girl Scout cookie sales is the relatively low price of the products. Offering a moderately priced product allows for greater supporter participation. Customers on tight budgets have the opportunity to still support their favorite cause, but at a reduced level, by simply purchasing fewer items. Although fewer customers are needed for higher priced products, the increased market size for the lower priced products often results in far greater total income. When evaluating fundraising ideas, consider what your supporters can afford.
How not to select a fundraising company... When it comes to product based fundraisers, much focus is placed on the percentage of sales retained by the fundraising groups. Although a key measure to be considered, pecentage-of-sales-retained can be very deceiving. It is more important that your group consider the ultimate bottom line - how much money can be raised versus the amount of effort expended. Although Product 'A' may offer a profit margin of 75%, Product 'B', which offers a profit margin of 40%, may be the wiser choice due to the fact that there may be a much larger market for it. Product 'B' may be much easier to sell and distribute as well.
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