Smart fundraising: Ensuring an event makes you money

Rising costs, inflation and supporter fatigue all contribute to the difficulty of running successful fundraisers.

One key factor that can significantly affect the success of an event is the choice of ticketing system. While ticket sales can generate crucial revenue, high ticketing fees can erode profits.

Here’s how community organisations can navigate these challenges and put on successful fundraising events while keeping costs low.

Understand your ticketing platform’s fees

Ticketing platforms are essential for managing registrations and payments, but many come with hidden or structured fees that disproportionately affect community organisations because of their lower-than-average ticket prices.

It is important to carefully assess pricing models before committing to a system.

Beware of fixed fees

Many ticketing platforms charge fixed fees per ticket sold. This disproportionately affects organisations that rely on affordable ticket prices.

For instance, platforms like Humanitix and TryBooking charge approximately $0.50 per ticket confirmed. While this might not seem like much at first glance, for a fundraiser selling 1,000 tickets, this equates to $500 in fees – money that could otherwise support the cause.

For organisations that sell low-cost tickets, such fees can be particularly burdensome.

If an organisation sells $5 tickets and incurs a $0.50 fee per ticket, that’s a 10 per cent loss per ticket. Then there’s the 2.5 per cent commission, which brings fees to a total of 12.5 per cent.

For a $20 ticket, the total fee percentage is 5 per cent, which is still very high. This disparity can make it harder for community groups to keep events affordable while ensuring they still raise a meaningful amount of money.

GiveNow offers a more community-friendly model, as it does not use fixed fee-per-ticket pricing, which helps organisations retain a larger share of their revenue.

The ‘free ticketing’ myth

Some ticketing providers advertise their platforms as “free” for organisations, but they shift the cost onto ticket buyers. They do this by adding mandatory processing fees that supporters must pay at checkout.

While this might reduce upfront costs for organisations, it still is a cost to be paid. Further, it can create friction for ticket buyers, who are faced with unexpected fees when completing their purchase.

When choosing a ticketing system, transparency is key. Look for platforms that clearly outline all costs for the sake of your organisation and your supporters.

Reducing costs while running successful events

Beyond ticketing fees, community organisations also face increasing costs for venues, catering, insurance, and event materials. To make fundraising events financially viable, here are some creative ways to cut costs:

• Leverage sponsorships and in-kind donations: Approach local businesses for sponsorships, through either financial support or in-kind contributions such as donated goods, food or services.

• Use volunteers: Engaging community members as event volunteers can significantly reduce staffing costs. The trick is to ensure every volunteer is provided with a clear role description so they are not over-burdened when they step up to assist.

• Find cost-effective venues: Consider venues run by fellow community organisations, such as community halls, council-owned spaces or schools, which may offer reduced or waived fees for local not-for-profit events.

• Opt for digital dromotions: Minimise marketing costs by using social media, email campaigns, and partnerships with local media instead of costly printed materials.

• Negotiate with suppliers: Whether it’s catering, AV services or merchandise, always negotiate for discounts or special not-for-profit rates. Always look at your highest value expense first when considering negotiating – make sure it is worth your time and effort!

Fundraising events remain a valuable way for community organisations to raise money, engage their supporters, and spread awareness of their cause.

However, costs can quickly add up, particularly when ticketing fees are not carefully considered.

Choosing a ticketing system with a fair and transparent pricing model, such as GiveNow’s, can help organisations maximise their revenue while keeping ticket prices affordable.

By combining strategic cost-saving measures with smart ticketing choices, community organisations can run successful and financially sustainable events that support their vital work.

Cathy Truong is executive director of online giving platform GiveNow.