The Best Fundraising Ideas for Nonprofits and Schools: Which Easy Fundraiser is Right for You?
Searching for a Fundraising Idea That Actually Works?
If you’ve ever googled “fundraising ideas” and felt overwhelmed, you’re not alone. There are thousands of suggestions out there—but most either require a ton of volunteer time, cost money to set up, or fall flat when it comes to results.
The good news? There are a few easy fundraisers that still deliver real impact.
In this post, we’ll compare four popular fundraising campaigns used by private schools, alumni groups, and mid-sized nonprofits—including our own done-for-you option at Vacanva—so you can pick the right approach for your goals and bandwidth.
📸 1. Vacanva Portrait Fundraiser
The Easiest Fundraiser With the Highest Donor Value
How It Works:
Supporters book a custom professional portrait session through your campaign link. They get a beautiful photo experience and a 16x20” print. You keep 100% of their $99 donation (minus card processing fees). Our team handles all the logistics.
Why It’s a Great Fundraising Idea:
It’s an easy fundraiser with zero upfront cost, high donor satisfaction, and no event planning required.
Perfect For:
PTAs, booster clubs, alumni chapters, or any cause with a family-friendly audience.
Highlights:
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$0 setup cost
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You don’t need volunteers or photographers—we provide both
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Typical earnings: $1,000–$10,000+
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Donors have 12 months to redeem their session
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You get a full promo kit (email, social, graphics)
🎬 2. Crowdfunding With a Storytelling Video
A Powerful Fundraising Idea That Requires More Work
How It Works:
This high-impact approach uses a compelling video to inspire donors to give toward a large goal (like launching a program or renovating a facility). Platforms like Classy or FundraiseUp help host and manage the campaign.
Why It Works:
When done well, a video-led campaign can raise tens of thousands of dollars by emotionally engaging your community.
Perfect For:
Organizations with a bold vision and a strong existing donor base.
Highlights:
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Requires video production and skilled campaign planning
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Typical revenue: $10,000–$100,000+
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Timeline: 4–8 weeks
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High engagement and donor storytelling opportunities
🛍 3. Online Silent Auction
A Traditional Fundraising Idea That Still Gets Results
How It Works:
Gather donated items or experiences and auction them online using platforms like 32auctions or BiddingForGood. Donors place bids and the highest bidder wins.
Why It’s Effective:
This fundraising idea works well for schools and nonprofits with strong community support and lots of volunteers to help source items.
Perfect For:
Parent-teacher groups, sports teams, and nonprofits with local business ties.
Highlights:
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High effort: donation gathering, organizing, and prize delivery
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Campaign runs 1–2 weeks; prep takes longer
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Revenue: $2,000–$15,000+
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Donors enjoy interactive bidding and winning real items
👕 4. Custom Merchandise Fundraiser
A Low-Effort Fundraising Idea That Builds Awareness
How It Works:
Design shirts, hoodies, or mugs with your logo or message, then sell them through platforms like Bonfire or Printful. Items are printed on demand and shipped to buyers.
Why It’s an Easy Fundraiser:
You don’t need to handle inventory, payments, or shipping. You just promote the campaign and collect funds from each sale.
Perfect For:
Schools, clubs, and nonprofits with a strong brand or community pride.
Highlights:
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No setup cost
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Typical revenue: $500–$5,000
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Campaign length: 2–4 weeks
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Bonus: donors become walking ambassadors for your cause
🔍 Fundraising Idea Comparison Table
| Fundraiser Type | Effort Level | Donor Value | Revenue Potential | Best Fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vacanva Portraits | ⭐ Low | 🎯 Very High | 💰 Medium–High | Family-focused orgs |
| Video Crowdfunding | 🔧 High | 🎯 High | 💰 High | Big campaigns with story potential |
| Silent Auction | 🔧 High | 🎯 Medium | 💰 Medium–High | Volunteer-heavy orgs |
| Merch Fundraiser | ⭐ Low | 🎯 Medium | 💰 Low–Medium | Groups with strong branding |
🧠 Final Thoughts: The Best Fundraising Ideas Are the Ones You Can Actually Execute
You don’t need to reinvent the wheel to raise money—you just need a fundraising idea that works for your audience, timeline, and team size. Whether you want something bold and story-driven or you’re just looking for an easy fundraiser that won’t overwhelm your group, the options above can help you make your next campaign a success.
