Choosing The Right Fundraiser

What fundraiser product SHOULD we sell? It's usually the first question that you ask yourself when you realize your group needs to raise funds! There are hundreds of products available - where to start? Consider the following 5 questions to help you choose:
 
1) How much money do we need to raise?
Come up with a goal that is based on your group's needs not just one that sounds good. If your group needs to raise a few hundred dollars, then lollipops or a small order of candy bars may be appropriate. If you need to raise $1,000 to $5,000, you may want to use an order taker fundraiser like a popular nuts and snacks program or a cookie dough fundraiser.
 

2) What would our group enjoy selling?
Your group members will determine the success of your fundraiser. Ask them what they would like to sell and what they don't. A football team will sell much more food product than they would flower bulbs. The more they like the product, the more confident and motivated they will be to sell them.
 

3) Order-taker brochures VS Direct-sellers (ex. $1 candy bars)?
If you have no funds up-front to purchase product, an order-taker fundraiser is your ONLY choice. JustFundraising.com will mail you free brochures, so your group can collect as many sales as possible. Typically, you keep up to 50% profit on EVERY sale you make. Direct-sellers, also known as show-and-sell products (candy bars, lollipops, etc.), are great to sell at events, booths, and with disciplined and safe door-to-door fundraising.
 

4) Are the products we're selling of high quality?
A consumer will be happy to support a worthy cause, however they will be turned off if they're paying for an inferior or significantly overpriced product. Remember that your fundraiser may be an annual or semi-annual event, and nothing builds profits like a reputation for offering top quality products.
 

5) Does the retail price match the income level of your community?
$20 items in many communities just don't sell like they used to. I like the idea of offering a selection of $5 to $20 items, so your supporters have a choice, and if their budget allows, they can purchase several items. That's why Snackin' in the USA and our $10 Gourmet Cookie Dough fundraiser have become so popular. Remember, more affordable products will sell easier and will lead to quicker success!

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