Turn Fun Into Funds: 17 Fundraising Event Ideas to Energize Your Cause
When you think about fundraising, what comes to mind? At its core, the word itself has a delightful double meaning. On one hand, it’s the act of gathering monetary resources—raising funds to fuel a cause or support a mission. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find that fundraising is just as much about lifting something intangible: spirits. It’s about bringing people together, igniting passion, and creating moments that inspire generosity and joy.
Fundraising events have come a long way from plain donation drives and somber galas. The most successful fundraising events strike a perfect balance. They’re entertaining enough to draw a crowd, impactful enough to leave a lasting impression, and memorable enough to make people come back for more.
Whether it’s a virtual game night that has participants laughing across screens or an in-person obstacle course that gets everyone moving, fundraising events rally people around a shared purpose while adding a good dose of fun. When done right, it can become an experience that is one for the books.
Here are 17 of the most entertaining and impactful fundraising event ideas to help you make a difference while raising funds and spirits.
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Why are Fundraising Events Important?
Fundraising doesn’t have to be all work and no play. It’s an opportunity to bring people together and create unforgettable experiences. So, why not inject some excitement and creativity into your next event? Whether you're hosting it in person or on a virtual event platform, the right mix of fun activities and heartwarming causes can spark real engagement. In this list, we’ve got 17 inventive fundraising ideas that’ll leave your guests thrilled to give and guarantee that your cause gets the attention it deserves.
If you decide to host fundraising events online, check out 10 Best Virtual Event Platforms for 2025 to find the platform that completely aligns with your event goals.
17 Fun and Fruitful Fundraising Ideas to Try in 2025
Why not inject some excitement and creativity into your next event? Whether you're hosting it in person or virtually, the right mix of fun activities and heartwarming causes can spark real engagement. In this list, we’ve got 17 inventive fundraising ideas that’ll leave your guests thrilled to give and guarantee that your cause gets the attention it deserves.
1. "Cup of Joe for a Cause" Coffee Cart Fundraiser
Overview:
Kickstart your fundraising with the ultimate pick-me-up: coffee! Set up a coffee cart at a local event, business, or even in a high-traffic area like a park or market. Offer freshly brewed cups of coffee, espresso drinks, or even specialty beverages, with donations tied to each cup sold. You can take it a step further by offering a "buy one, donate one" option, where each purchase provides a cup of coffee to someone in need or supports an additional cause. To make the event even more engaging, host "coffee breaks" at different times of the day to bring people together to chat about the cause while enjoying a warm drink.
Why it Works:
Coffee lovers are a loyal and passionate crowd, and most will gladly contribute to a great cause in exchange for their favorite morning beverage. By bringing the coffee cart to a community event or partnering with a local business, you can tap into a steady stream of potential donors. Plus, the low-cost, high-demand nature of coffee makes it easy to raise significant funds throughout the day.
2. “Hats Off” to Charity: Crazy Hat Contest
Overview:
It’s time to put on your most outrageous hat for a good cause! Host a “Hats Off” to Charity competition where participants donate to enter their wackiest, funniest, or most creative hat into the contest. Set up a stage on a virtual event platform for people to showcase their headwear, and encourage spectators or online viewers to vote for their favorites through donations. The more they donate, the more votes they get to cast for the wildest hat! Add extra fun by offering themed categories like "Most Outrageous," "Best DIY Creation," or "Hat That Makes Us Laugh" and award prizes to the winners.
Why it Works:
The “Hats Off” contest is a quirky, lighthearted way to engage your community while raising money. Everyone loves a good laugh, and this event encourages friendly competition in a fun and accessible way. The interactive nature of the contest, combined with the ability to vote via donations, keeps participants and spectators actively involved.
3. "Penny" for Your Thoughts? Reverse Raffle
Overview:
If you think a raffle is all about the thrill of winning, then think again! A reverse raffle flips the concept on its head, rewarding the last ticket drawn instead of the first. Participants buy tickets for a chance to win, but instead of announcing winners immediately, tickets are pulled one by one throughout the event. As the draw continues, the suspense builds until only one ticket remains—the grand prize winner. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Add a twist by offering smaller prizes or funny consolation awards for the unlucky ones whose tickets are drawn earlier.
This format works for both in-person and virtual events. For in-person gatherings, create a lively atmosphere with a hosted countdown, themed decor, and interactive commentary. For virtual raffles, you can add excitement with live-streamed ticket pulls, on-screen animations, and audience polls to keep everyone engaged.
Why it Works:
The reverse raffle creates a sense of suspense and anticipation like no other fundraising method. Participants stay invested from start to finish, cheering as tickets are drawn and calculating their odds with every pull. The longer they stay, the more opportunities there are to encourage donations through side challenges, additional ticket purchases, or donation-matching opportunities. Plus, the comedic element of “losing to win” lightens the mood and makes the event entertaining for everyone involved.
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4. “Sip Happens” Wine Tasting Fundraiser
Overview:
For those who believe in the philosophy that wine pairs well with good causes, a wine-tasting fundraiser is a toast-worthy idea. Host the event at a chic venue, a cozy backyard, or even a local winery willing to partner for the cause. Attendees purchase tickets for the event, which grants them access to sample an array of wines, whether from local vineyards, global selections, or curated pairings with cheese and hors d'oeuvres.
Take it up a notch by incorporating engaging elements like guided tastings from a sommelier, wine trivia games, or a silent auction featuring rare bottles. You can also sell additional wine or exclusive packages during the event to raise even more funds.
Why it Works:
The intimate and social nature of wine tastings fosters a sense of connection among attendees, enhancing their emotional investment in the cause. And for wine lovers, it’s an irresistible opportunity to sample unique flavors while supporting a charity. Add in the allure of beautifully presented venues and the joy of sharing drinks with like-minded people, and you’ve got a fundraising event that’s as smooth and refined as the wines you’re serving. Cheers to that!
Check out 25 Fun Corporate Event Ideas to Help Teams Connect and Collaborate Virtually in 2024 for some corporate fundraising event inspirations.
5. "Paws-itive" Vibes Only: Pet Parade Fundraiser
Overview:
A pet parade fundraiser invites pet owners and animal lovers alike to come together for a whimsical costume parade featuring furry (or feathered!) friends. Participants pay an entry fee to showcase their pets in creative costumes, from superhero pups to dapper cats and everything in between.
To make it interactive, attendees can vote for categories like “Cutest Costume,” “Funniest Outfit,” or “Most Unique Pet.” Add an extra layer of fun with a live emcee providing commentary or running a fashion-show-style walk for the participants. You can also livestream the event online, allowing virtual audiences to join in the voting and donations.
Why it Works:
Who can resist adorable animals dressed to impress? The sheer charm of pets in costumes naturally draws a crowd, creating an uplifting and inclusive atmosphere that appeals to all ages. This fundraiser taps into people’s love for their pets, encouraging participation and fostering community spirit. A pet parade fundraiser combines the joy of celebrating animals with the power of giving back. It’s a paws-itive way to make a difference, one wagging tail and tiny tuxedo at a time!
6. The “Wheel of Fortune” Fundraiser (Spin for a Cause)
Overview:
The Wheel of Fortune, where every spin is a win for your cause. This fundraiser puts a fun twist on traditional donation drives by letting participants spin a colorful wheel to determine their prize. Set donation tiers that correspond to different sections of the wheel; higher donations unlock bigger and better rewards.
For live events, a large spinning wheel at the center of your venue can double as an attraction and photo op. Prizes can range from gift cards and merchandise to event tickets.
Why it Works:
It’s incredibly versatile, working equally well in-person and online. The visual spectacle of a spinning wheel grabs attention, while the unpredictability ensures that every participant is eager to see where the pointer lands. By combining fun, surprise, and generosity, this fundraiser not only raises money but also creates a memorable experience for everyone involved.
7. "Catch Me if You Can" Obstacle Course for Charity
Overview:
Turn fundraising into a high-energy adventure with a charity obstacle course that gets hearts racing, literally! Participants sign up and pay an entry fee to tackle a series of fun and challenging obstacles, from climbing walls to balance beams, mud pits, or even quirky tasks like a pie-eating contest at the finish line. To up the ante, add a competitive element where participants can raise additional funds by securing pledges for each obstacle they conquer or by completing the course in record time.
For a more inclusive twist, design the course with varying difficulty levels so anyone, regardless of fitness level, can join in the fun.
Why it Works:
An obstacle course fundraiser combines fun, fitness, and philanthropy into one action-packed event. The physical challenge creates a sense of accomplishment, while the friendly competition and cheering crowd boost excitement and engagement.
The fundraising potential extends beyond entry fees, as participants can gather donations from friends and family based on their performance. The interactive and lively nature of the event also provides plenty of opportunities for social media sharing, helping to spread awareness about your cause.
8. "Bubbles for a Better World" Soap Making Fundraiser
Overview:
Let creativity flow with a hands-on soap-making fundraiser that’s equal parts fun and fragrant. Participants pay an entry fee to join a workshop where they craft their own unique soaps. Set up stations with a variety of molds, colors, scents, and decorative elements like dried flowers or glitter so that everyone can personalize their creations.
Once the soaps are ready, you can sell them to raise additional funds or even offer a "make one, donate one" option where participants craft a second bar to be sold. This event can be hosted at a local venue, like a community center, or even conducted virtually by sending soap-making kits to participants in advance and holding an online tutorial.
Why it Works:
Soap-making is a universally appealing activity that combines creativity, relaxation, and practicality. People love the idea of crafting something both beautiful and useful, especially when it supports a meaningful cause. With its blend of fun, functionality, and fundraising potential, this event bubbles over with opportunities to make a difference. Who knew raising funds could smell so sweet?
9. "Game of Throws": Charity Dodgeball Tournament
Overview:
Gear up for an epic showdown on the dodgeball court with a "Game of Throws" charity tournament! Teams sign up and pay an entry fee to compete in a fast-paced, action-packed dodgeball extravaganza. Design the tournament as a bracket-style competition, where teams face off until the last group standing claims victory and a prize.
To make the event even more engaging, include fun twists like themed team costumes, surprise “power-ups” (e.g. an extra player or a temporary shield), or a “celebrity” match featuring well-known local figures. For added fundraising, spectators can donate to cheer on their favorite teams or participate in side games like a speed-throw challenge.
Why it Works:
Dodgeball is a universally loved game that brings out the competitor in everyone. It’s energetic, inclusive, and team-driven, making it perfect for building camaraderie and drawing participants of all skill levels.
Entry fees, donations, and on-site extras like concessions or merchandise provide multiple fundraising streams. “Game of Throws” is a surefire way to turn fun into funds for a worthy cause.
10. “Shave for Change” Challenge
Overview:
The "Shave for Change" challenge invites participants to raise money by committing to a major personal transformation, whether that’s shaving their heads, coloring their hair in vibrant hues, or even getting a dramatic haircut. The more outrageous the transformation, the more donations you’ll raise.
Participants gather pledges from friends, family, and supporters who donate based on the boldness of their transformation or in support of their efforts. This can be done as a live, in-person event, where the transformation happens on stage, or virtually, with participants streaming their makeover journey online. For added drama, you could host a live countdown to reveal the transformations, turning it into a high-energy, suspense-filled event. For a virtual "Shave for Change" event, read through the 5 Essentials to have at a Virtual Fundraising Event so you’re better prepared.
Why it Works:
The shock value of personal transformation grabs attention and sparks conversation, making it a compelling way to raise awareness and funds. The more daring the challenge, the more people are likely to get involved, either by donating or taking part themselves. It’s a fun way to engage your community and encourage people to push their limits, all for a good cause.
11. "Pitch-Perfect" Talent Show for Charity
Overview:
Ready, set, perform! The "Pitch-Perfect" Talent Show is your chance to showcase hidden talents while raising funds for a worthy cause. Participants pay an entry fee to perform their unique skills, whether it’s singing, dancing, stand-up comedy, magic tricks, or something totally unexpected. You can host this event in person at a local theater or community center or take it virtual by getting attendees onstage for online performances.
To add excitement, offer voting opportunities for the audience to pick their favorites, with prizes for the most entertaining acts. You can also encourage fundraising by letting people donate to "vote" for their favorite talent, creating friendly competition and increasing engagement.
Why it Works:
Whether in-person or virtual, the talent show format works well for fostering a sense of community. It creates an interactive experience that encourages both performers and spectators to contribute and get involved. The combination of entertainment, participation, and excitement makes this fundraiser a hit, no matter the platform.
12. Art for Hearts: Silent Auction with a Twist
Overview:
Get ready for an evening of creativity and competition with "Art for Hearts," a silent auction where unique artwork and exclusive experiences are up for grabs. In addition to beautiful pieces from local artists, you can auction off one-of-a-kind experiences, like a private art lesson, a guided city tour, or even a personalized dinner with a local chef.
Set up your auction as either a live, in-person event with a gallery-style atmosphere or as a virtual auction where participants can browse and bid online. To make it interactive, incorporate a twist by allowing guests to create their own art pieces during the event, such as a collaborative mural or an art station where everyone can make small creations. The live-action and ongoing bidding will spark friendly competition, encouraging people to raise their bids to win amazing items while supporting the arts and your cause.
Why it Works:
"Art for Hearts" combines the excitement of an auction with the cultural appeal of art and creativity. The chance to acquire unique pieces or experiences that can’t be found elsewhere drives interest and competition, often resulting in higher bids. By supporting local artists and offering immersive experiences, this event not only raises funds for your cause but also connects the community with the arts in a meaningful way.
On another hand, sororities make a positive impact on their communities and contribute to worthy causes by hosting fundraising events. Check out the article 10 Creative Sorority Philanthropy Event Ideas on our blog for more ideas if you are part of a sorority.
13. The Bake Sale That Takes the Cake!
Overview:
Put a fresh spin on the classic bake sale by bringing in celebrity chefs, local influencers, or even popular food bloggers to help bake and promote your delicious offerings. Whether you're hosting this event in person or virtually, you can offer a variety of mouth-watering treats such as cakes, cookies, pastries, and savory bites while adding a dash of star power to elevate the experience. In-person, you can host a community gathering where participants sample and purchase the goodies, or you can create a virtual event where people can order baked goods to be delivered or picked up from a local bakery. For an extra twist, auction off a special dessert made by a celebrity chef or offer exclusive baking classes.
Why it Works:
Bake sales are an enduring favorite because they combine two irresistible things: delicious treats and community spirit. With celebrity chefs or influencers involved, this twist helps draw in bigger crowds and gives the event a fun, high-profile flair. People are more likely to donate when they’re excited about the treats, especially if well-known culinary figures have made them or if there’s an added experience like a baking tutorial.
14. "Knit Wit" Crafting for Charity
Overview:
Organize a crafting event where participants donate to join in creating beautiful handmade items like blankets, scarves, hats, and more. Provide all the materials and instruction for those who may be new to crafting, or encourage seasoned crafters to bring their own supplies. Participants can work on their creations during the event, and these handmade items can either be sold to raise additional funds or donated to those in need, such as homeless shelters, hospitals, or community centers.
For virtual events, you can host a crafting challenge where participants can craft from home and share their creations online, with donations tied to each submitted piece or project.
Why it Works:
Crafting is not only a therapeutic and relaxing activity, but it also brings people together with a shared purpose. The tangible outcome, whether it's blankets for the homeless or scarves for a local charity, adds emotional value to the donations, making it more meaningful for participants. Plus, you can raise funds by either selling the handmade items or charging a donation fee for entry.
15. "“Around the Clock for a Cause” 24-Hour Telethon
Overview:
Bring the classic telethon into the 21st century by hosting a 24-hour fundraising event. Whether virtual or in-person, this event runs non-stop, featuring live entertainment, inspiring stories, games, challenges, interviews, and even audience shoutouts. Invite local performers, influencers, and community leaders to keep the energy alive and attract donors. Stream it live online to reach a global audience or set up a local venue for in-person attendees. Amp up the excitement with donation milestones that unlock surprise acts or special performances.
Why it Works:
A 24-hour telethon creates a sense of urgency and continuous engagement, encouraging donations throughout the day (and night!). Its flexible format allows for endless creativity; mixing entertainment, heartfelt moments, and interactive elements to keep audiences hooked. The long runtime gives ample opportunities for everyone to tune in, participate, and contribute, no matter their schedule. You can raise substantial funds for your cause.
16. Bingo, Bango, Fundraising!
Overview:
Host a fundraising bingo event where each square on the bingo card represents a different donation tier or sponsorship deal. For example, certain squares might be unlocked when attendees donate specific amounts, and once a square is unlocked, participants can take part in a fun mini-game or trivia related to your cause. The goal is to get participants to fill in their bingo cards by making donations or pledging support. The more they donate, the more squares they unlock and the better the prizes get! You can also integrate sponsorships, where businesses or organizations sponsor specific squares in exchange for visibility.
Why it Works:
It is a great way to create excitement and a sense of urgency while encouraging multiple donations from each participant. The competitive aspect makes it fun and engaging, while the integration of different donation tiers and sponsorships helps drive funds for the cause. Each donation leads to a new opportunity to play, creating an ongoing loop of excitement and contribution.
17. "The Great Escape" Charity Scavenger Hunt
Overview:
Put on your detective hats and get ready for "The Great Escape" Charity Scavenger Hunt! Organize a scavenger hunt where participants follow clues, solve challenges, and make donations to unlock new checkpoints or hidden prizes. The hunt can take place at a physical location (like a park, event venue, or around a city) or virtually, where participants follow a series of online clues or challenges. At each donation checkpoint, participants can choose to donate in exchange for access to the next clue or a chance to unlock hidden rewards, such as exclusive items or entry into a raffle for grand prizes.
Virtual scavenger hunts can involve solving puzzles, completing online tasks, or finding hidden clues across a website or social media platforms.
Why it Works:
This scavenger hunt blends teamwork, problem-solving, and friendly competition, which keeps participants engaged and excited throughout the event. By incorporating donation checkpoints, the hunt encourages people to contribute to the cause in order to continue playing or access rewards.
Need More Fundraising Event Ideas? Remo’s AI Event Idea Generator Will Help
Struggling to come up with more fresh and exciting fundraising ideas? We get it. It can be tough to think of something exciting and new. That’s where the Remo AI Event Idea Generator comes in to save the day. This smart tool uses advanced algorithms to quickly generate personalized event ideas based on your unique needs. Simply input details about your event, such as the type, description, and target audience, and in minutes, you'll get a list of innovative ideas tailored specifically for you and your cause.
Whether you’re planning an in-person or virtual event, the Event Idea Generator can suggest creative concepts that are sure to engage your audience and raise funds for your cause. It saves you time and effort by analyzing hundreds of ideas at once, ensuring you don’t miss out on any possibilities. Plus, the more details you provide, the more spot-on and personalized your ideas will be.
Why not give it a try? It’s free, super easy to use, and can give your fundraising efforts the creative boost they need.
Raise the Bar on Fundraising
The possibilities for creative fundraising events are endless, whether in person or online. Many of the ideas we've explored can easily be adapted for both settings, so you can engage your audience no matter where they are.
And while we're talking virtual events, there's no better place to host your next fundraiser than Remo. With its myriad of interactive features, seamless registration and incredibly versatile ticketing options, Remo is the perfect platform to bring your fundraising ideas to life. Book a demo today and see how easy and exciting hosting a virtual fundraiser can be.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fundraising Event Ideas
1. What is a fundraising event?
A fundraising event is an organized activity designed to raise money for a specific cause or charity. These events can include activities like auctions, raffles, challenges, or social gatherings where attendees contribute to support the cause.
2. How do I host a fundraising event?
To host a fundraising event, start by choosing a clear cause, selecting a fun and engaging activity, setting a date, and promoting the event. Use online platforms or venues to reach your audience, and make sure to have a donation system in place.
3. Can fundraising events be virtual?
Yes! Many fundraising events can be hosted virtually using platforms like Remo, where you can engage participants through live activities, raffles, or auctions, all while raising funds for your cause.
4. What are some creative ideas for fundraising events?
Creative ideas for fundraising events include virtual talent shows, themed auctions, interactive raffles, obstacle courses, or unique challenges like "Shave for Change" or pet parades. The key is to make the event fun, engaging, and memorable.
5. How do I encourage people to donate at my event?
To encourage donations, make the event fun and interactive, highlight the cause's importance, offer incentives or prizes, and create a sense of urgency or excitement. Personal stories and social media promotions can also drive support.
Aniqa Iqbal
Aniqa is a content writer at Remo, where she merges her love for storytelling from movies and TV shows with her passion for creating compelling content. With a knack for blending pop culture references and relatable narratives, Aniqa crafts content that informs and resonates deeply with readers. She aims to strike a chord with her audience, fostering genuine connections through words that inspire, engage, and entertain. When she's not writing, Aniqa can be found binge-watching her favorite shows, always on the lookout for the next story to tell.
