Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) have established trust from the public sector through their various initiatives such as providing aid and developing projects for inhabitants of many developing countries. To achieve success in their projects, NGOs go through a long process of planning before the implementation. To begin implementing such projects that help numerous groups and individuals around the world, funds for NGOs in developing countries are required. NGOs would generally apply for grants for NGOs in developing countries but alongside that, NGOs should also seek to earn funds for themselves for other matters such as operational costs. A conventional way to raise funds would be through fundraising activities. Here are some interesting ideas for your NGO to effectively raise funds:
1. Auctions
Holding auctions is one of the most effective ways of raising funds. Since people are aware of the charity or cause your NGO is supporting, individuals participating in the auction will be more willing to bid a large amount. Apart from that, seeking for donations to sell in the auction from organizations and individuals wouldn’t pose that much of a challenge given the recognition they will receive from their participation.
2. Donation areas
In developed countries, having a kiosk for donations can be optimized by your NGO. That way, people who pass by can notice and possibly read about your initiatives, inspiring them to donate. Apart from that, the donations you receive will not be limited to those who wish to donate in cash. However, having a kiosk will come at a cost. Thus, having them placed in strategic locations is essentially important. Similarly, in most developing countries, having a coin bank visible in areas where cash registers are present will be strategic. This is because people already have their wallets in hand, and will possibly donate their loose change.
3. Sports competition
For quite some time, fun runs have been used to raise funds for various causes. Apart from fun runs, other sports activities can also be put into action. Golf, tennis, basketball, volleyball, and other sports can also be participated by various enthusiasts. This way, the participants are able to hit two birds with one stone. They are able to pursue their passions and help those in need at the same time.
4. Online donations
Accepting donations online can’t be stressed enough, as this opens doors to numerous donations. In fact, for donors above the age of 60, 47 percent make their donations online (Jarvis, 2018). For those aged below 60, there is even a greater number of online donations. Refusing to accept online donations will hinder your NGO in receiving numerous grants especially with the way the world is evolving today.
5. Talent Shows
In most schools, plays and recitals are common activities for students. Whatever a student’s role may be, whether it be the lead star or a tree, it’s something family and friends wouldn’t want to miss. Thus, partnering with such institutions will be good for your NGO. Students will be more delighted to perform knowing their hard work will bring many good initiatives to those who aren’t as fortunate. Additionally, parents and relatives alike will also be inviting more guests to take part in this initiative.
Fundraising isn’t only an effective way to keep an NGO’s business running and a means to sustain various projects. It can also be an activity enjoyed by many volunteers and staff members. Hence, although NGOs should put great emphasis on this, other initiatives shouldn’t be taken lightly either. Just because your NGO has been successful in raising funds, it doesn’t mean one’s grant-writing skills no longer needs to be developed. Ultimately, a balance is what NGOs need to continue aiding more communities.
