How Fundraising Works: 3 Steps to Make Money Fundraising Online

TL;DR: In the realm of online fundraising, securing financial support is crucial for both organizations and individuals facing financial challenges. However, the art of soliciting donations online requires a tactful approach to avoid the stigma of digital panhandling and ensure success. To navigate this delicate balance, we present a refined strategy in three straightforward steps.

Step 1: Launching an Online Fundraising Campaign

Initiating an online fundraising campaign may seem commonplace, but the popularity of crowdfunding platforms attests to their effectiveness. Crowdfunding harnesses personal networks and social sharing to encourage contributions from family, friends, and peers. To execute a successful campaign, follow these essential steps:

• Choose a crowdfunding software provider by evaluating features and affordability. (Check out our article on 3 Highly Effective, Easy Team Fundraising Ideas For 2024 for a list of what features to look out for!)

• Set a clear fundraising goal and establish a realistic timeline for achieving it.

• Craft a compelling narrative through impactful content, including persuasive copy, images, and videos.

• Actively promote the campaign on social media and through email to expand its reach.

• Monitor the campaign's progress, providing regular updates to sustain momentum.

Once the fundraiser concludes, express gratitude to supporters no matter the campaign's outcome using personalized emails, social media DMs, or even phone calls.

Step 2: Leveraging P2P Product Fundraising

Selling products online provides donors with tangible incentives, making it an attractive fundraising method. Some platforms, like Aimly, are designed specifically for these types of fundraisers.

At Aimly, we specialize in helping people and organizations raise money through gourmet potato chip fundraisers via our F.R.E.E. online platform.

With Aimly, setting up a chip fundraising campaign is easy as 1, 2, 3:

1. Schedule your campaign and create your storefront. Take 5-10 minutes to add your title, a description of why you’re fundraising, a captivating image to represent you and/or your organization, choose a 7-day fundraising window and personal fundraising goal

2. Invite your team. Invite your team via text or email to create their own custom fundraising storefront pages.

3. Promote and sell. Market your fundraiser on social media to spread the word! Don’t worry about handling any of the inventory or finances—Aimly takes care of that for you. 

Fundraising Tip: Be sure to tag us @goaimlyfundraising with the hashtag #goaimly when you post about your campaign on social media and we’ll repost you to our socials to give your campaign an extra boost!

Schedule your first Aimly fundraising campaign at zero cost to you here!

Step 3: Provide Regular Updates Before, During AND After the Fundraiser

The power of social media cannot be overstated. Frequent updates are crucial to keep supporters engaged and informed about you and your cause. Use social media to build support for the humans behind the cause, grow your donor base beyond your local community, maintain transparency and encourage continued donations.

Bonus Step: Say Thank You!

A little gratitude goes a long way. Show appreciation for your supporters through personalized letters or emails, public acknowledgments, social media posts, or dedicated website pages.

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Armed with these three strategic steps, your online fundraising endeavors are poised for success. Want some help executing your winning fundraising strategy, leveraging proven methods, and maximizing your digital revenue? Book a (f.ree) discovery call with one of our fundraising coaches here!

Ready to raise some serious funds for your cause? Check out goaimly.com and schedule your first Aimly fundraising campaign for F.R.E.E. right now!