Expert Tips for Effective Event Fundraising

In this episode of The Secret Guide to Fundraising, host Jordan Morris spoke with Anthony Spencer, an event fundraising expert and Event Manager at Help Musicians. With nearly a decade of experience in the nonprofit sector, Anthony shared valuable insights on how charities can expand their event portfolios, adapt to shifting donor demographics, and integrate technology to maximize fundraising success. Here are the key topics and takeaways from Anthony’s episode:

1. Expand and Diversify your Event Fundraising

Summary: Anthony discussed how charities can strategically grow their event calendars, ensuring sustainability and engagement year after year.

Key Learnings:

• Conduct audience research to align new events with donor preferences.
• Balance traditional events with innovative formats to attract different demographics.
• Plan at least a year in advance to secure venues and sponsorships.

2. Finding and Securing Venues for Fundraising Events

Summary: With the increasing closure of music venues, securing the right location for fundraising events has become more challenging. Anthony highlighted strategies for identifying and negotiating event spaces.

Key Learnings:

• Explore alternative venues, including smaller independent spaces, which may offer better terms.
• Build long-term relationships with venue owners to establish partnerships and negotiate favorable deals.
• Book venues well in advance to ensure access to high-demand locations.

3. Using Digital Tools to Boost Fundraising Success

Summary: Help Musicians recently introduced platforms like Givergy to streamline fundraising, from ticketing to silent auctions. Anthony explained how technology has enhanced donor contributions.

Key Learnings:

• Utilize online platforms to collect pre-event donations and engage attendees before, during, and after events.
• Extend silent auctions beyond event day to increase participation and revenue.
• Ensure fundraising technology is user-friendly, especially for older donors who may need additional guidance.

Givergy Tip: You can now fundraise for free with Givergy so if you’re thinking of trialling online fundraising tools to boost your next event, now is the time!

4. Engaging Younger Donors for Long-Term Growth

Summary: With an aging donor base, charities must find ways to connect with younger supporters.

Key Learnings:

• Leverage digital channels like Instagram and TikTok to connect with younger audiences.
• Develop events featuring diverse music genres to attract younger supporters.
• Offer flexible and accessible donation options, such as crowdfunding and subscription-based giving models.

Givergy Tip: Check out our podcast on influencer fundraising for an inside look at how a US based non-profit is meaningfully partnering with influencers to drive impact.

5. The Long-Term Future of Fundraising Events

Summary: Maintaining flagship events while innovating to ensure long-term sustainability is both doable and necessary for building connection to your community.

Key Learnings:

• Keep legacy events fresh by evolving formats and incorporating new entertainment elements.
• Establish recurring annual events with growing audiences to build long-term engagement.
• Monitor donor behaviour trends and adjust fundraising strategies accordingly to stay relevant.

Take Action

Want to learn more about how you can raise more at your next event fundraising?

🎧 Listen to the full podcast to hear Anthony’s expert insights.

🚀 Get started with our fundraising services and take your charity’s events to the next level.