Free Fundraising Ideas for UK Charities: How to Raise More Without Spending a Penny

When budgets are tight and resources are limited, finding free fundraising ideas can make a major difference to the success of your next campaign. The good news is that you do not need a large budget, or any budget at all, to run an engaging and effective fundraiser.

At Givergy, we believe charities should not have to pay for fundraising technology. Our Keep It Free model gives every organisation access to award-winning tools and campaign features at no cost. You can create donation campaigns, run prize draws and 50/50 draws, sell event tickets, report on your performance and contact supporters with automated SMS messaging, all without any fees.

Below are some of the best free fundraising ideas for UK charities and how you can run each idea through Givergy without spending a penny.

1. Run a Free Online Donation Campaign

A simple donation campaign remains one of the most effective ways to raise money. Givergy allows you to create a fully branded donation page in minutes at no cost. You can share this page through email, social media or SMS.

Why it works

• Supporters can donate quickly and easily
• Campaigns are simple to promote
• Ideal for urgent appeals or ongoing fundraising
• Charities keep the full amount raised

Why it is free

When donor contribution is enabled, donors are asked at checkout if they would like to support the Keep It Free model. Around half say yes. If a donor chooses not to contribute, that is completely fine. Givergy still covers all payment processing fees, which means your charity never pays to use the platform.

2. Host a Prize Draw or Raffle at No Cost

Prize draws remain extremely popular across the UK. You can offer a donated prize, a local experience or a themed hamper. These draws are ideal for increasing engagement and reaching new supporters.

With Givergy you can:

• Create your draw page
• Promote entries online
• Track all purchases
• Draw a winner automatically
• Collect Gift Aid where relevant

Why it is effective

Prize draws often attract individuals who may not usually donate. They also provide an interactive way for existing supporters to engage with your campaign.

3. Launch a Free 50/50 Draw

A 50/50 draw is quick to set up and consistently delivers strong results. Supporters buy tickets and the final pot is split evenly between one winner and your charity.

Why supporters like it

The format is exciting and easy to understand.

Why charities like it

There is no setup cost or admin burden. The total grows naturally with each ticket sold. Givergy provides everything you need to run a 50/50 draw at no cost.

4. Sell Event Tickets Without Paying Any Fees

Ticketing platforms often take a significant share of your revenue, particularly for smaller events. Givergy allows you to sell unlimited tickets for free. You can create custom ticket types, choose seating options, collect guest information and send instant confirmations.

Automated SMS updates are included at no cost, which helps you communicate with guests throughout your event.

Whether you are running a quiz night, gala, community fundraiser or sponsored walk, you keep every pound raised.

5. Create a Free Virtual Challenge

Virtual challenges work well for supporters who want flexibility. Examples include walking a daily distance, completing a month-long fitness challenge or achieving a personal milestone.

When you run your challenge through Givergy you get:

• A branded campaign page
• Clear donation tracking
• Ongoing supporter updates
• No fees of any kind

This approach unites supporters regardless of where they live.

6. Launch an Online Auction

Auctions often generate substantial revenue, particularly when you have donated items or unique experiences. Givergy allows you to host a silent auction online with unlimited items and full mobile-friendly bidding.

Outbid notifications and real-time reporting are included. Charities pay no platform fees and keep the full amount raised.

7. Make Use of Free SMS Guest Messaging

Many fundraising platforms charge for messaging. Givergy includes automated SMS reminders at no cost. These messages can:

• Remind guests about your event
• Encourage last-minute participation
• Highlight auctions or prize draws
• Send instant thank you messages

This feature improves supporter engagement without adding extra expense.

8. Use Free Reporting Tools to Improve Future Fundraisers

Reporting tools should not be restricted behind premium subscriptions. Givergy offers free access to detailed reporting that helps you understand supporter behaviour, donation patterns and engagement levels.

These insights allow you to optimise future campaigns, reduce admin time and present clear data to trustees or leadership teams.

Why the Keep It Free Model Matters

Most fundraising platforms collect fees through subscriptions, payment charges or ticketing costs. Givergy removes all of these expenses. Your organisation receives:

• No platform fees
• No payment processing fees
• Free access to all features
• Free reporting
• Free SMS messaging
• Free branding
• Free support

Donors are invited to contribute voluntarily, and if they choose not to, Givergy still covers the cost of fees. This approach ensures charities can run high-impact fundraisers without any financial barriers.

Start Your Free Fundraiser Today

Whether you are planning a small community initiative or a nationwide campaign, Givergy provides all the tools you need to raise more without paying for fundraising technology.

Fully branded. Mobile ready. Completely free.

Ready to start raising more for free? Create a campaign in minutes or speak to one of our fundraising experts today.