Top 10 Brochure Fundraising Incentives that Work

Fundraising is vital for schools, community groups, and organizations that want to support their goals and initiatives. Whether raising money for school programs, sports teams, or local causes, finding a way to engage the community and inspire contributions can be challenging. A successful fundraising campaign requires careful planning, creativity, and, most importantly, the right tools to motivate sellers and buyers.

The fundraiser brochure is one of the most effective tools for a successful fundraising campaign. A well-designed brochure is a gateway to the products or services you’re offering, making it easier to connect with potential buyers. However, the success of your fundraiser depends not only on the products listed in the brochure but also on how well they resonate with your target audience. Selecting the wrong brochure can lead to poor sales and disengaged participants, while the right choice can generate enthusiasm and repeated support for years to come.

In addition to choosing the right brochure, incorporating fundraising incentives plays a pivotal role in encouraging participation and maximizing sales. Creative and motivating incentives help drive student and community engagement, giving your campaign an edge. These incentives can range from simple rewards like a pizza party for the class that sells the most to more elaborate rewards like a trip for the top seller. The right incentive programs can inspire sellers to go the extra mile, turning your fundraiser into an exciting and rewarding experience for everyone involved.

For instance, a high school group may successfully sell discount cards with local deals, while an elementary school might do better with cookie dough or frozen food options. Pairing these brochures with exciting incentives, like prize drawings or VIP privileges, adds an extra layer of motivation and energizes participants throughout the campaign. These are not just hypothetical scenarios but actual strategies that have worked for schools and community groups in the past.

This guide will explore the importance of selecting the best fundraiser brochure and using effective fundraising incentives. From understanding community preferences to incorporating creative reward systems, you’ll learn how to craft a strategy that boosts sales, builds community engagement, and ensures the success of your next fundraising campaign. Whether planning your first fundraiser or looking to improve on past efforts, these insights will set you on the path to achieving your goals. Let’s dive into the key components of a winning fundraising strategy.

Why Choosing the Right Brochure Matters

Selecting the right fundraiser brochure is the foundation of any successful fundraising campaign. It’s not just about showcasing various products but ensuring they resonate with your community’s preferences and interests. A brochure that aligns with people's wants boosts initial sales, fosters community engagement, and encourages long-term support for your cause.

A crucial step in the process is understanding your audience. Communities differ in their needs and tastes, so matching your brochure to their preferences is essential. For example, some groups might appreciate practical items like kitchenware, while others might favor indulgent treats like cookie dough or frozen foods. When you take the time to tailor your offerings, you create an opportunity for meaningful connections, making your campaign more than just a transaction.

The impact of offering products people look forward to can’t be overstated. Imagine an organization holding an annual pie sale that becomes a beloved tradition within the community. Over time, people come to anticipate and even ask for the fundraiser, ensuring consistent support year after year. This level of enthusiasm stems from choosing a brochure that not only excites buyers but also becomes synonymous with the group’s identity.

Unique items—such as customizable bags, locally inspired goods, or exclusive discounts—stand out in a crowded market and give your fundraiser a distinct appeal. They can excite and intrigue your audience, driving repeated support and loyalty.

In summary, the right fundraiser brochure is more than a catalog—it’s a bridge to your community. By aligning your brochure with their preferences and focusing on products they genuinely care about, you set the stage for effective engagement and ongoing success.

Steps to Select the Best Fundraiser Brochure

Choosing the best fundraiser brochure involves careful planning and collaboration. Selecting a brochure that appeals to your community and aligns with your group’s goals and logistical capabilities is essential. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the right choice:

1. Conducting Surveys for Feedback

The first step is gathering input from parents, staff, students, and other stakeholders. Their preferences are crucial in shaping the brochure that resonates with your audience, making them feel valued and integral to the fundraising campaign.

• Feedback is a powerful tool in fundraising. It empowers the community to shape the campaign, fostering a sense of collaboration and shared responsibility.
• Involving the Community: Engaging stakeholders in decision-making ensures a more successful outcome and fosters a sense of ownership. When people feel involved, they are more likely to participate enthusiastically and spread the word about the fundraiser.
• How to Gather Input: Use online surveys, school meetings, or casual conversations to ask questions like, “Which products would you buy or sell?” and “What items would you like to see in the brochure?”

2. Considering Logistics

The success of a fundraiser doesn’t end with selecting a brochure; it also depends on managing the logistics of delivery and distribution.

• Evaluate Delivery Needs: Products like frozen food or cookie dough require freezer space for storage and timely pick-up arrangements. Ensure you have a plan in place for unclaimed orders to avoid waste.
• Simpler Options: If managing logistics seems overwhelming, consider brochures with straightforward products like discount cards or non-perishable items. These are easier to handle and eliminate the need for special storage.
• Success Stories: Schools that excel at selling frozen food have organized systems, such as designated pick-up windows and reminders for parents. Learning from their methods can help you streamline your process.

3. Promoting Unique Items

Highlighting standout products is key to capturing interest and driving sales.

• Focus on Uniqueness: Brochures featuring stainless steel kitchenware, customizable designer bags, or other exclusive products can give your fundraiser a competitive edge.
• Create Buzz: Showcase these items in promotional materials and social media posts to spark excitement. For example, spotlight the durability of high-quality kitchen tools or the style of personalized bags to attract attention.

Combining community input, thoughtful logistical planning, and a focus on unique products ensures your fundraiser stands out and achieves its goals. A well-chosen brochure isn’t just a tool for sales—it reflects your group’s values and commitment to excellence.

Top 10 Brochure Fundraising Incentives That Work

Incorporating fundraising incentives is a proven way to drive participation and sales in any brochure fundraiser. These motivators inspire sellers to engage more actively, fostering a spirit of friendly competition and excitement. Below are 10 creative incentive ideas to help boost your fundraiser’s success.

1. Prize Drawing Incentive Game

This game keeps students motivated throughout the fundraiser by giving them multiple chances to win prizes.

• How It Works: Each time students sell five items, they receive a prize coupon to enter a drawing. The more they sell, the more entries they earn.
• Rewards: Use small, inexpensive prizes like school supplies, gift cards, or fun privileges.
• Why It Works: Regular drawings keep enthusiasm high and encourage continuous participation. Students feel they have an equal chance to win, regardless of how much they sell.

2. Super Student VIP Card

Offer an exclusive VIP card to students who sell 25 or more items, granting them special privileges throughout the school year.

• Privileges: Free dress days, no homework passes, or early lunch access.
• How It Works: Each VIP cardholder enjoys five pre-determined privileges during designated “VIP Days.”
• Why It Works: Students are motivated by the opportunity to stand out and enjoy unique perks. This incentive works exceptionally well for younger groups who love recognition and exclusive rewards.

3. Jump for George Game

This simple yet fun activity rewards top sellers with cash prizes.

• How It Works: Line up dollar bills end-to-end and let the top 10 sellers or one winner from each class broad jump to earn as much money as they can cover.
• Why It Works: Combining physical activity with instant cash rewards adds excitement. Sellers work hard to earn a spot in this game.

4. Video Game Truck Party

Reward high-performing students with access to a portable video game truck.

• How It Works: Students who sell 20 or more items get a ticket to the party. They rotate through the truck in 20-minute intervals or enjoy a private 2-hour session for top sellers.
• Why It Works: Video games are universally appealing, making this incentive highly effective for middle and high school students.

5. Mystery Person Game

Add an element of surprise to your fundraiser with this engaging incentive.

• How It Works: Assign 1–3 staff members as “mystery buyers.” Students must sell to these individuals to win prizes, privileges, or cash. Proof of sale, such as a certificate or ticket, is required.
• Why It Works: This game encourages students to sell actively and engage with their community while adding fun and mystery.

6. Money Incentive Game

Motivate sellers with periodic cash prize opportunities.

• How It Works: Set three sales goals during the campaign. Students who meet each goal qualify for a cash drawing. For example, reaching the first goal earns them a shot at $20. If no winner is drawn, the prize moves to the next drawing, increasing the stakes.
• Why It Works: The growing prize pool builds anticipation and motivates students to reach their goals. Even if they don’t win, the chance to participate encourages consistent effort.

7. Sell 10 to Get Into Activity

Offer access to a fun event for students who sell 10 or more items.

• Events: Pizza parties, DJ nights, or movie screenings
• How It Works: Students must meet the sales threshold to receive an invitation.
• Why It Works: Social activities are an excellent motivator for middle schoolers. The promise of fun with friends incentivizes them to reach the goal.

8. Principal Incentive

Get the principal involved for a creative and memorable reward.

• How It Works: If the school reaches a specific fundraising goal, the principal agrees to perform a funny or daring act, such as kissing a pig, dressing in pajamas, or dyeing their hair.
• Why It Works: Students love seeing authority figures change their roles, creating a shared sense of achievement and adding excitement to the campaign.

9. Grand Prize Drawing

Offer a large prize at the end of the fundraiser to encourage participation.

• How It Works: For every five items sold, students earn an entry into the drawing. More sales equals more chances to win.
• Prizes: Choose high-value items like electronics, gift cards, or experiences.
• Why It Works: The possibility of a significant reward motivates students to sell more items and stay engaged throughout the campaign.

10. Top Seller Prize

Reward your top performers with special recognition and exclusive prizes.

• How It Works: The top three sellers win exciting prizes, such as a tablet, bike, or a shopping spree.
• Why It Works: Recognizing high achievers motivates students to strive for the top spot while setting a benchmark for others.

By implementing these creative incentives, you can transform your brochure fundraiser into an engaging and highly profitable campaign. Pairing these strategies with an appealing fundraiser brochure ensures maximum participation and community support.

Combining Brochures and Incentives for Maximum Impact

A successful fundraiser strategy hinges on combining well-chosen brochures with creative incentives to boost engagement and sales. The synergy between these elements can turn an average campaign into an effective fundraising event that garners community-wide support.

Choosing the right brochure ensures you offer products that resonate with your audience while thoughtfully designed incentives motivate participants to sell more. For example, a high school fundraiser selling discount cards can pair them with prize drawings for top sellers, creating a sense of excitement and competition. Similarly, an elementary school selling cookie dough could offer a pizza party or video game truck access for students meeting sales goals.

In practice, these combinations have proven successful in various contexts. Schools hosting annual brochure campaigns with incentives like principal challenges (e.g., dyeing their hair or wearing a costume) see higher participation rates. Community organizations selling niche items, like locally inspired goods, experience repeat support by coupling their offerings with grand prize drawings or exclusive VIP rewards.

By tailoring brochures to community preferences and offering exciting incentives, you can create a dynamic fundraising strategy that meets and exceeds your goals. This approach builds engagement, encourages participation, and fosters a sense of shared achievement within the community.

Tips for Promoting Your Fundraiser

To achieve successful sales, effectively promoting your fundraiser is key. Here are three practical strategies to ensure maximum reach and community involvement:

1. Leverage Social Media and Flyers: Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and local community pages to share updates about your fundraiser. Highlight exciting brochure items and post reminders about deadlines. Flyers distributed at schools, community centers, and local businesses can also help spread the word.
2. Encourage Word-of-mouth: Get parents, staff, and students to discuss the fundraiser. Highlight unique brochure items, such as customizable products or limited-time offers, to generate buzz. Personal endorsements from trusted community members can amplify your campaign's appeal.
3. Build Excitement with Incentives: Promote the rewards tied to your fundraiser, like grand prize drawings, pizza parties, or special privileges. Regularly update participants on their progress toward goals to maintain enthusiasm.

Effective promotion ensures your fundraiser gets noticed, inspiring the community to support your efforts and helping you achieve your financial targets.

Overcoming Common Challenges in Fundraising

Every fundraiser comes with its share of fundraising challenges, but proactive planning and solutions can help ensure success.

One common issue is managing logistics, especially with products like frozen food or cookie dough. To handle this, establish precise pickup schedules and communicate reminders to parents. Having contingency plans for unclaimed items, such as temporary freezer storage or volunteer delivery, can also prevent disruptions.

Another hurdle is keeping students and parents motivated throughout the campaign. Regularly share progress updates, celebrate milestones, and emphasize the impact of their efforts on the group’s goals. Highlighting rewards like incentives or fun events like pizza parties or grand prizes keeps enthusiasm high. Engaging parents in the process, such as by asking for feedback or encouraging their involvement, ensures broader support.

By addressing these challenges head-on, you can streamline the fundraiser and maintain momentum from start to finish.

A successful fundraiser depends on thoughtfully selecting a brochure and implementing creative incentives. These two elements inspire participation, maximize sales, and foster community engagement.

Tailoring your brochure to community preferences, planning effective logistics, and using fun incentives can help you overcome challenges and achieve your goals. Start planning your next fundraiser with these strategies to ensure a smooth, rewarding campaign for everyone involved!

Author Bio

Clay Boggess has been designing fundraising programs for schools and various nonprofit organizations throughout the US since 1999. He’s helped administrators, teachers, and outside support entities such as PTAs and PTOs raise millions of dollars. Clay is an owner and partner at Big Fundraising Ideas.