10 Ways to Fundraise for Global Finals

Is your team fundraising for Global Finals? From fun runs to trivia nights, there are a variety of creative options to help your team raise money. And whether you’re looking for in-person or virtual options, we’ve got you covered. Check out these 10 popular fundraisers that can work virtually and in person. 

1. Crowdfunding
   Go to where a lot of people are–online! Use a crowdfunding site (e.g., GoFundMe) to set up a donation page for your Destination Imagination team. You can even offer a tiered system. For example, for $10 a donor could receive a special update on your team’s experience. For $30, the donor could receive a team t-shirt or other team-created gift.
   
2. Fun Run or Walkathon
   Get moving in your community or in the privacy of your own home. You can host a socially-distanced walk/run with participants or use a crowdfunding site to set up a virtual fun run or walkathon event. You can even use a free program like Canva to create a logo and digital awards.
3. Yard Sale
   As they say, “one person’s trash is another person’s treasure.” Have each team member gather items to sell and use social media (including Facebook groups) to promote your event. You can even use social media to host your yard sale virtually.
4. An Evening with Local Celebrities
   Find some local celebrities, such as your mayor, a local author or band, a television personality, or a journalist, to guest star at your event. You can charge a fee for community members to attend and even have some of your local celebrities help you fundraise throughout the evening.
5. Bake Sale
   Bake sales have long been one of the most popular types of fundraisers. In addition to baking your own goodies, you should reach out to local bakeries and restaurants to see if they will donate desserts, bread, and other goods to your fundraiser.
6. Trivia Night
   Everyone loves to test their knowledge through some friendly competition! You can do a general trivia night or make it a themed event (e.g., movies, music, etc.).
7. Student Art Sale
   Talk to your school principal about hosting a student art sale. You can have students from your school and community contribute different pieces for the event. You can have set prices for each piece of art or do an auction.
8. Silent Auction
   A silent auction can be done as a standalone event or as part of another fundraising event. From fun outings to tickets to a museum or play to restaurant gift cards, you can provide a range of items up for auction. To avoid spending too much money on prizes, work with local businesses on donations that will help bring them business in return.
9. Car Wash
   Car washes are popular moneymaking events in virtually every community. Consider a high-traffic location with good visibility, and create a few attention-getting signs to alert drivers. And make sure you have a reliable source of water!
10. Donation Letter Requests
    This is a great opportunity to let your community know about the important work your team is doing! Reach out to local businesses, as well as friends and family, and ask for a monetary donation or items for an upcoming fundraiser you’re hosting.