Fundraiser Fiasco: Six Reasons Why your Fundraiser Flopped

If you're currently struggling to figure out why the fundraiser you had been planning for months barely broke even, there are a few things that you may have overlooked in the haste to plan it. Here are some cardinal items that all fundraisers need to avoid if they are going to succeed.

1. Poor Networking

You didn't network hard enough. Networking is extremely important in the fundraising industry. Even if you send out flyers and invitations, many people will not attend unless they have a sense of obligation or familiarity to the charity. Beyond sending advertising for your event, ask people personally to come and donate.

2. No Pizazz

You weren't exciting enough. No matter how good your cause is, many people are not going to be inclined to go to an event unless there's something to be excited about. Something as simple as offering promotional giveaways such as custom golf towels or personalized towels can encourage them to stop by. You can use promotional products like these during giveaways and contests or even when you are at an industry-specific tradeshow or conference. If you want to take it a step further, schedule a live band, raffle or some other form of entertainment.

3. Schedule Snafu

You timed it incorrectly. Many first-time fundraising managers make this mistake. There are certain times of the week and certain times of the year that are simply very difficult to plan for. Accidentally planning something on the same night as a school event, for instance, is a sure way to kill it.

4. Wrong Focus

You didn't emphasize the charity. When planning a fundraiser, you need to have a very clear picture of how the money is going to actually get to the charity. If you're relying on donations while the event is taking place, you need to push attendees to donate. Otherwise they may assume that their presence is all that's required. Also, you must give them a detailed picture about exactly how you will use the donations. By offering a concrete game plan, people better understand the importance of what you're doing.

5. Wrong Theme

You misjudged the community. If you're in a suburban area, you'll want to create a family-friendly event that can involve the kids. However, if you're in the city, you might want to create a more exciting singles event. You need to plan for the community that you're targeting.

6. Insufficient Advertising

You simply didn't advertise enough. Word-of-mouth exposure alone cannot create an excellent fundraising event. You do need to invest intelligently in marketing and advertising. If you don't have the funds, you can consider asking companies to pay for your advertising in exchange for a sponsorship. Many companies enjoy doing this kind of thing as it gives them more exposure.

Even if your previous fundraiser was a flop, don't despair. As with all things, fundraising gets easier with time. Your next fundraiser can still be a success, provided you make the changes you need to. When it’s time for your next fundraiser, you'll have learned a lot and be ready to succeed.