- Nonprofits regularly ask community businesses, services and artists to donate merchandise, gift certificates and other items to auctions, which are usually held during a dinner or other event. However, nonprofits can experiment with the auction concept to come up with energizing, fun ways to raise money. Collect donations from the community of household items and electronics, then use volunteers help to post the items on an auction site and keep the profit. Sometimes small items aren't worth it for individuals to post online, but for a nonprofit, those dollars add up. A date auction with local celebrities can be an effective fundraiser as one of the items up for bid. Try a themed auction with certain types of items or services available to fit the nonprofit's goals or community.
- Raffles seem old-fashioned, but can still be fun and profitable. Again, the nonprofit can seek donations from businesses and individuals to raffle off. Volunteers and community members sell tickets in prominent locations. For a technological twist, feature the raffle prizes on a website so that ticket buyers can see the things they might win in exchange for a donation. Be sure to check local and state ordinances that govern raffles.
- Bake sales don't just have to happen in schools; other community nonprofits can hold them as well. Use volunteer help and even commercial bakeries or restaurants to gather unique baked goods--or any type of edibles--to sell during a community event or at local gatherings, such as outside community concerts or craft fairs. For example, maybe a "salsa sale" could offer various bottled salsas from area Mexican restaurants. Offering drinks like sodas, coffee and tea alongside the tasty treats is a quick way to increase profits and draw in customers.
- Many nonprofits hold events like relay races, 5K runs or even dog walks to raise money for their causes. Participants can either pay a flat fee to participate or can gather pledges for every mile they cover or another goal they accomplish. Fees may be easier for event administrators to collect than pledges, which often don't come through in the end. These outdoor events require significant effort to plan, but are real community-builders and can also be profitable.
