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How to choose the right kind of fundraiser for your team

See how FunditForward compares to other popular fundraising options.

There's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all fundraiser. The right fundraiser for you depends on your team's timeline, engagement, and community fit. But where do you start?

Popular Fundraiser Types

Fundraiser Type Best For Effort Level How Fast It Works Ideal Goal Size
FunditForward Eco-conscious teams, social sharing Low to medium Fast (1-2 weeks) $300-$5,000+
Traditional Product Sales Communities which expect a product Medium to high Medium (2-4 weeks) $500-$3,000
Events (Bake Sale, Car Wash, etc.) Highly social teams High Medium to slow (1-2 months) $200-$1,500
Direct Donations Tight timelines or generous communities Low Fast Any size

What are the pros and cons of each fundraiser type?

FunditForward

With FunditForward, your supporters don't buy products; they support your organization and help plant trees in your community.

Pros:

  • Fast and easy to launch – No products to handle, no delivery to coordinate
  • Higher returns than traditional product sales – Keep 70% of dollars raised
  • Mission-driven – People feel good about giving back while supporting your team
  • Modern payment options – Tap to Pay, digital payments (like Apple or Google Pay) and QR code checkout built into the Jamboree app
  • Cashless and safe – No money changing hands, no risk of loss or theft

Things to consider:

  • Less familiar – Some supporters may need a quick explanation of how it works

  • Best with a clear story – Works best when your need feels urgent or meaningful

Traditional Product Sales

Selling physical items like snacks, candles, or spirit wear.

Pros:

  • Familiar format – Easy for your community to understand

  • Built-in value – People get something tangible in return

  • Can work well offline – Good for families with limited tech access

Things to consider:

  • Time-consuming – You’ll need to collect orders, handle money, and manage delivery

  • Lower profit margins – A portion of every sale goes to the vendor

  • Storage & distribution required – You’ll need a plan for getting items to buyers

Events (Dine & Donate, Car Wash, Trivia Night, etc.)

In-person gatherings or service-based fundraisers.

Pros:

  • Fun and social – Great for building community and team morale

  • Local business tie-ins – Can attract attention and support

  • Lots of team involvement – Good for groups that want to get hands-on

Things to consider:

  • Takes prep time – May require permits, space, supplies, or staffing

  • Weather or turnout risks – Results can be unpredictable

  • One-time boost – Not ideal for long-term or high-dollar goals

Direct Donations

Asking supporters to give money with no product or cause-based purchase attached.

Pros:

  • Simple and fast – Nothing to manage but the ask

  • No cost of goods – 100% of what’s donated goes toward your goal

  • Great for urgent needs – Works well when people understand your situation quickly

Things to consider:

  • Fatigue risk – Donors may tire of repeated asks

  • Harder to promote – No item or impact to share on social

  • Less fun for team – No team activity or engagement component

  • Legal questions - Direct donations can be tricky to navigate legally, depending on your organization

Which fundraiser is right for me?

It depends on your organization's needs. Which describes your situation the best?

  • “We need money fast.” → Try: FunditForward or Direct Donations

  • “We want something fun and social.” → Try: FunditForward or Event Fundraiser

  • “Our community loves buying things to support us.” → Try: FunditForward or Product Sales

  • “We’re short on time and help.” → Try: FunditForward

Still not sure?

Start simple with FunditForward. It's a quick and easy fundraiser to help you reach your goals.

The most important part? Get started!