Nifty Fifty Fridays

50 Strategies for Nonprofit Event Planning

Events, events, events!  For many organizations, event fundraising is a significant portion of their annual revenue.  Here are 50 strategies to make planning your next fundraising event super smooth!  And to take a deeper dive into event fundraising (and all forms of fundraising), come to the Nonprofit Storytelling Conference!

1. Define Your Goals: Clearly identify what you want to achieve with the event.

2. Budgeting: Establish a clear budget and ensure every aspect of the event stays within it.

3. Establish a Timeline: Map out a timeline for all planning activities.

4. Identify Target Audience: Understand who you want to attend and tailor the event to their preferences.

5. Choose a Suitable Venue: Find a venue that's accessible, appropriate, and within your budget.

6. Create a Backup Plan: Prepare for unexpected circumstances such as weather or last-minute cancellations.

7. Sponsorship Acquisition: Reach out to potential sponsors to support your event.

8. Effective Promotion: Use social media, email, and other marketing strategies to promote the event.

9. Volunteer Management: Recruit and manage volunteers effectively.

10. Engage Key Stakeholders: Engage board members, major donors, and other key stakeholders.

11. Create a Memorable Theme: A unique theme can help your event stand out.

12. Incorporate your Brand: Use the event to reflect and promote your organization's brand.

13. Make it Interactive: Interactive elements can make your event more engaging and memorable.

14. Registration Management: Implement a simple and efficient process for registration.

15. Offer Multiple Ticket Tiers: Consider offering different levels of ticket prices to attract a wider audience.

16. Ensure Accessibility: Ensure that your venue is accessible for all attendees.

17. Seating Plan: Plan a seating arrangement that fits the format and objectives of your event.

18. Choose the Right Date and Time: Consider your audience's availability when choosing the date and time.

19. Food and Beverage Planning: Cater to different dietary preferences and needs.

20. Delegate Responsibilities: Assign tasks to team members based on their skills and interests.

21. Post-Event Follow Up: Send thank you notes, surveys, or other follow-up communication.

22. Measure Success: Identify key metrics to evaluate the success of your event.

23. Procure Auction Items: If you're having an auction, make sure to secure compelling items.

24. Use Technology: Utilize event management software, social media, and other digital tools.

25. Maximize Networking Opportunities: Create opportunities for attendees to connect with each other.

26. Create an Agenda: Plan and share a detailed agenda with participants.

27. Health and Safety Considerations: Ensure you have plans in place to keep all attendees safe.

28. Incorporate Entertainment: This could include live music, performances, or keynote speakers.

29. Provide Value to Attendees: Make sure attendees walk away feeling the event was worth their time and money.

30. Document the Event: Hire a professional photographer or videographer to capture the event.

31. Incorporate a Fundraising Element: Even if it's not a fundraiser, there's usually room to include a fundraising component.

32. Provide Clear Information: Make sure attendees have all the necessary information about location, timing, etc.

33. Arrange Reliable Transportation: If the venue is remote, arrange for transportation.

34. Create an Event Checklist: To ensure nothing is overlooked.

35. Engage the Media: Use the event to garner media coverage for your cause.

36. Generate Pre-Event Buzz: Use content marketing and social media to build excitement before the event.

37. Attract VIPs: Try to attract industry leaders, celebrities, or local officials to boost your event's profile.

38. Personalize the Experience: Personal touches can make attendees feel special and appreciated.

39. Optimize Signage: Ensure your signage is visible, informative, and reflects your branding.

40. Stay Eco-Friendly: Consider the environmental impact of your event and try to minimize it.

41. Partner with Other Organizations: Collaborations can help share the workload and broaden your reach.

42. Offer Merchandise: Selling merchandise can raise extra funds and increase brand visibility.

43. Get Feedback from Attendees: Use surveys or informal conversations to gather attendee feedback.

44. Show Gratitude: Always thank your attendees, volunteers, staff, and sponsors.

45. Use Event to Gather Content: Testimonials, photos, and videos gathered at the event can be used in future marketing efforts.

46. Invest in Quality Audio/Visual Equipment: Good A/V can make a big difference in your event's success.

47. Communicate Regularly with Your Team: Keep everyone informed to ensure smooth execution.

48. Make Use of Local Resources: Use local vendors and talent to support your local economy.

49. Prioritize Diverse Voices: Make sure your event represents and speaks to a diverse audience.

50. Offer a Virtual Attendance Option: In today's digital world, it's beneficial to offer an online attendance option when possible.