How to Create a Successful Bingo Fundraiser: A Step-by-Step Guide

Posted by Jordan Morris on 6 May 2025

Bingo fundraisers are a fantastic way to bring communities together, raise money for a good cause, and have a lot of fun along the way. Whether you’re fundraising for a charity, school, sports club, or another cause, a bingo night can deliver impressive results. This guide will walk you through how to organize a bingo fundraiser that’s both profitable and memorable.

What Is Bingo?

Bingo is a game of chance where players mark off numbers on a card as they’re called out, aiming to complete a winning pattern — such as a line, four corners, or a full card (called a “full house”). The first player to achieve the pattern and call out “Bingo!” wins a prize.

Bingo is loved for its simplicity, social atmosphere, and flexibility. It’s easy to customize for fundraising by adjusting ticket prices, prizes, and game formats, making it a perfect option for charitable events.

Why Choose a Bingo Fundraiser?

Bingo fundraising events combine entertainment and giving in a simple, accessible format. Unlike many fundraising ideas, bingo appeals to a wide range of people and can easily be adapted for both small local events and large-scale fundraisers. Follow the steps below and you’ll be on track to smash your next bingo fundraiser!

Step 1: Set Your Bingo Fundraising Goals

Before you dive into planning, define clear fundraising goals. How much do you aim to raise? Will funds cover a specific project or support general operations? Setting a target helps shape decisions about pricing, marketing, and event size.

Step 2: Build Your Team and Assign Roles

As with any successful fundraiser, assembling a reliable team is key. Assign tasks like sponsorship outreach, marketing, ticket sales, prize sourcing, and event management. A coordinated team ensures no details are overlooked.

Step 3: Choose the Right Venue for Your Bingo Fundraiser

Select a venue that fits your audience size and budget — from school halls and community centres to church halls or hotel function rooms. Ensure there’s enough space for tables, chairs, a stage or caller’s area, and equipment like microphones or speakers. Make sure the venue is accessible for all guests, including those with mobility needs.

Step 4: Secure Permits and Follow Regulations

Depending on your location, bingo fundraisers may require a license or permit. Research local gambling and charity laws to stay compliant. This protects your organization and builds trust with participants.

Step 5: Source Prizes and Sponsors

Attractive prizes can significantly boost ticket sales and engagement. Reach out to local businesses for prize donations or event sponsorships. Offer them promotional opportunities in exchange, like logo placement on event materials or social media shout-outs.

For online or hybrid events, you can also include exciting online auction items to maximize fundraising potential. And if you’re stuck for top prizes, the Givergy team can help!

Step 6: Promote Your Bingo Fundraiser

Effective promotion is crucial. Use a mix of marketing channels, including:

• Social media posts and paid ads
• Email newsletters to your supporter base
• Posters and flyers in local businesses
• Press releases to local media outlets

Highlight key details: event date, time, venue (or online platform), ticket prices, and how the funds will be used.

Step 7: Sell Tickets in Advance

Selling tickets in advance helps you estimate attendance and cover upfront costs. Offer online ticket sales, as well as in-person options, to maximize reach. Consider offering discounted group packages or early-bird pricing to encourage sign-ups.

Step 8: Plan an Engaging Bingo Night Experience

On the night, ensure the event runs smoothly with a clear schedule. Include fun extras like:

• A charismatic bingo caller
• Raffle draws
• Bonus games between bingo rounds
• A donation appeal or live auction segment

Remember, a great atmosphere keeps guests coming back year after year!

Step 9: Thank Your Supporters

After the event, follow up with attendees, sponsors, and volunteers. Send thank-you emails or handwritten notes and share the fundraising results on social media. Gratitude strengthens relationships and boosts future fundraising success.

Bonus Tips for a Successful Bingo Fundraiser

• Use technology wisely: Online ticketing, digital bingo cards, and live-streaming tools can make events more accessible and engaging.
• Test your equipment: Whether online or in-person, make sure mics, speakers, and screens work properly before the event.
• Make it fun and inclusive: Include games that cater to different ages and skill levels.

Learn More About Successful Fundraising

For more insights on running standout fundraising event, click here, or get in touch!

Jordan Morris

Givergy

Jordan joined Givergy after studying Politics with International Relations at the University of York. He has over two years experience within the charity sector working as a face-to-face fundraiser and as a constituency campaigner. After experiencing the sector from within and knowing first-hand the impact digital solutions can make to fundraising strategies, Jordan is now dedicated to innovating the way charities fundraise to ensure they maximise returns from every fundraising campaign.