Undoubtedly, when most people hear “church fundraiser”, they likely think of traditional bake sales or those cringe-worthy donation requests.
However, fundraising doesn’t have to be dull or about asking for cash. Done correctly, it can actually be a blast, unite everyone, and leave lasting memories.
Suppose your church congregation gathers for a totally awesome event, and not only do all of you have an amazing time. But you also raise funds for something valuable. Whether a mission trip, a new facility, or giving back to youth programs.
It’s so much more than just the funds. In fact, it’s about the relationships you form along the way.
Consider a “Living Auction” fundraising event, for instance. People can bid on fun experiences such as a homemade meal at one’s home, a personal concert, or a weekend trip away. It’s stimulating and engaging; participants can enjoy themselves while supporting an important cause.
We have compiled 25 innovative church fundraising ideas to help you achieve your funding objectives and create memories of a lifetime for your congregation.
Ready to make your next fundraiser one to remember? Let’s get started.
CREATIVE CHURCH FUNDRAISING IDEAS
1. CHARITY AUCTION
- Request that church members and local businesses contribute items, services, and experiences.
- Hold a live or silent auction at your church or over the Internet.
- Sell exclusive packages, like dinner with the pastor or VIP seating at special services.
- Utilise an online auction service to increase your audience and facilitate remote bidding.
2. COMMUNITY YARD SALE
- Request members donate gently used goods like books, clothing, and furniture.
- Organise a pleasant, well-organised shopping outing in your church parking lot.
- Provide refreshments, music, and entertainment to draw more customers.
3. BAKE SALE WITH A TWIST
- Organise a bake-off contest where members vie for the best dessert.
- Sell homemade goodies with special packaging and personalised labels.
- Permit pre-orders for in-demand items and provide delivery to boost sales.
4. CHURCH COOKBOOK SALE
- Gather favourite recipes from church members and organise them into a professionally formatted cookbook.
- Sell digital and print copies to raise money.
- Create a “featured recipe of the week” giveaway on social media to generate buzz.
5. TRIVIA NIGHT
- Charge an entry fee and have teams compete.
- Develop entertaining Bible and general trivia questions.
- Award small prizes to winners and a bonus prize to the best creative team name.
ACTIVE AND ENGAGING FUNDRAISERS
6. WALK-A-THON OR FUN RUN
- Create a route around your church or neighbourhood park.
- Have pledges per mile or lap from participants.
- Offer water stations and cheerleaders to give a morale boost.
- Host themed races, like “Glow Run” in the evening or a “Superhero Dash.”
7. CAR WASH
- Stage in a high-traffic parking lot and get volunteers.
- Take donations rather than charging fixed prices.
- Serve free coffee or lemonade while customers wait.
8. DANCE-A-THON
- Select an entertaining theme (Gospel, 80s, Christian pop, etc.).
- Charge admission and offer sponsorship options.
- Offer prizes for the best or longest dancer.
9. CHURCH TALENT SHOW
- Invite members to perform their talents, from singing to comedy.
- Sell tickets for audience members and offer live stream options for online giving.
- Provide a “People’s Choice Award” where attendees give money to vote for their favourite act.
10. GAME NIGHT FUNDRAISER
- Host board games, card games, and video game tournaments.
- Charge per game or provide an all-access pass.
- Sell snacks, drinks, and raffle tickets for extra cash.
SEASONAL CHURCH FUNDRAISERS
11. CHRISTMAS TREE SALE
- Partner with a tree farm to sell fresh-cut trees.
- Set up a lot in your church parking area.
- Offer delivery and setup services for an extra donation.
12. EASTER EGG HUNT
- Sell tickets for entry and hide special prizes in some eggs.
- Include a bake sale and refreshment stand for added fundraising.
- Partner with local businesses and sponsorships.
13. PUMPKIN PATCH FUNDRAISER
- Sell pumpkins from a local patch and have fall activities.
- Add hayrides, face painting, and a pumpkin-carving contest.
- Charge a small admission fee for attractions.
14. THANKSGIVING DINNER FUNDRAISER
- Have a community dinner with a donation-based admission fee.
- Offer an option for an additional sale takeout.
- Establish a “Blessing Box” where attendees may contribute excess funds to someone in need.
15. VALENTINE’S DAY FLOWER AND CHOCOLATE SALE
- Sell church member-written love notes, flowers, and chocolate.
- Accept pre-orders and have delivery available throughout the church body.
- Have a dinner night for couples with a silent auction and live music.
ONLINE AND PASSIVE FUNDRAISING
16. CROWDFUNDING CAMPAIGN
- Utilise sites such as GoFundMe and post personal testimonies to connect with givers.
- Invite social media shares and sponsor matching donations.
- Post periodic updates and impact stories.
17. AMAZON SMILE PROGRAM
- Incentivise members to choose your church as their charity.
- Share about it during services and newsletters.
- Constantly remind members to shop through Smile.Amazon.com.
18. ONLINE MERCHANDISE STORE
- Sell branded T-shirts, mugs, and tote bags with the church’s name.
- Sell scripture-based designs and faith-inspired artwork.
- Utilise print-on-demand services to avoid inventory expenses.
19. MONTHLY GIVING PROGRAM
- Make regular giving convenient with automatic giving plans.
- Provide unique devotional material or member appreciation.
- Feature donor impact stories.
20. VIRTUAL CONCERT OR WORSHIP NIGHT
- Stream live workshop music or organise a spoken-word event.
- Sell virtual tickets and receive live donations.
- Add a “request a song” donation option.
COMMUNITY-DRIVEN FUNDRAISERS
21. SPONSOR-A-PEW CAMPAIGN
- Have members contribute to new church seating.
- Provide small plaques bearing donor names.
- Develop a visible donor wall within the church.
22. ADOPT-A-PROJECT
- Outline definite church needs (roof replacement, new sound system, etc.).
- Have members fun specific projects.
- Give regular reports and display completed projects.
23. DINE-TO-DONATE NIGHTS
- Partner with nearby restaurants where a portion of sales benefits your church.
- Advertise it in the community and church.
- Promote group involvement for a night out.
24. COMMUNITY SERVICE DAY
- Provide yard maintenance, house cleaning, or handyman services for donations.
- Involve youth groups and Sunday school members.
- Take it as a time for outreach and fellowship.
25. RENT-A-YOUTH FOR A DAY
- Church teens provide services like dog walking, babysitting, or lawn mowing.
- Members donate in return for these services.
- Assists youth in becoming involved in church fundraising.
LET’S GET THE FUNDRAISER STARTED
Now that you have 25 great church fundraising ideas, it’s time to get moving. Select the one that best suits your congregation and begin planning today.
Need expert event assistance? AV-Productions can assist you.
We love to talk. Call us at 0207 177 3405 or email us at [email protected]. You can also visit us at 22 Wenlock Road, London N1 7TA.
Let’s build an unforgettable church fundraiser together.
