Fundraising Strategies and Approaches
5 min read

Advantages of Performance-Based Fundraisers

Schoolfundr Team
Published
November 3, 2024

Advantages of Performance-Based Fundraisers

Fundraising plays a vital role in supporting charitable causes and organizations. While traditional flat donation fundraisers have been the go-to method for years, there is a rising trend in performance-based fundraisers. These innovative events not only capture the attention of participants but also yield exceptional results. 

Active Engagement: 

One of the significant advantages of performance-based fundraisers is their ability to ignite active engagement. Unlike flat donation fundraisers where participants simply contribute a fixed amount, performance-based events encourage individuals to actively participate in the fundraising process. By creating a shared goal and fostering a sense of camaraderie, these events help build a strong community around a cause. This collective effort not only amplifies the impact of the fundraiser but also strengthens the bonds within the community, generating a ripple effect of support and compassion.

Reach Large Audiences:

In the age of social media, performance-based fundraisers leverage online platforms to generate buzz and reach a wider audience. This digital exposure raises awareness and attracts potential donors who may have been unaware of the cause. The viral potential of these events is invaluable in today's interconnected world. Social media's cooperative nature encourages collaboration and support, while its competitive aspect fuels the desire for recognition and success. This dynamic combination inspires participation, sparks discussions, and drives higher engagement levels among users.

Utilize Personal Networks:

Unlike traditional flat donation fundraisers, performance-based events have a unique advantage: they tap into the personal networks of participants. When individuals commit to a challenge or performance, they naturally reach out to their network for support. This organic word-of-mouth marketing can significantly expand the reach of the fundraiser, attracting donors who have a personal connection to the participant. On average, performance-based fundraisers tend to raise 10-15% more per donor compared to flat donation fundraisers because donors become more invested in the outcome of the campaign.  Leveraging these personal networks allows performance-based fundraisers to surpass the donations typically generated by flat donation fundraisers. 

Performance-based fundraisers transcend the conventional concept of fundraising. These events empower participants to embrace challenges, break free from their comfort zones, and create unforgettable memories. To demonstrate this, consider a fun run where participants run as many laps as they can to raise money for a cause. In a performance-based fundraiser, a parent could pledge $4 per lap to the fundraiser. If there are a total of 28 laps completed at the fun run, then that donor would contribute $112. 

With performance-based fundraising the average student raises about $140 for their fundraiser. Fun runs and similar fundraising events, like read-a-thons, not only build school spirit within the community, but they also generate more funds compared to flat donation fundraisers. By pushing their limits in pursuit of a cause, participants not only make a tangible impact but also discover newfound strength within themselves. The positive emotions and personal achievements associated with performance-based fundraisers foster long-term engagement and loyalty from participants, creating a lasting connection to the cause and a desire to continue supporting it.

Join the movement of performance-based fundraising and make a lasting impact on your community with Schoolfundr.

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