Raising money as an individual can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s for a personal cause, a friend in need, or a passion project, you might wonder where to start, and how to get people to care.
The good news? You don’t need a huge team or a fancy setup. All you really need is a clear goal, a simple plan, and a few people who believe in what you're doing.
Over the years, we’ve helped all kinds of individuals, students, parents, volunteers, and everyday changemakers, build real momentum with fundraising. What works best? Keeping things simple, personal, and easy for others to say “yes” to.
There are so many creative and low-effort ways to raise money today, from online tools to old-school bake sales. And with the right approach, even small donations from your friends and family can add up fast.
Online fundraising ideas for individuals
When you're short on time or energy, online fundraising can be the easiest way to get started. You don’t need a big event, a printed flyer, or even a fancy website. Just a good reason, a few clicks, and a way to share it with your people.
1. Launch a personal crowdfunding campaign
This is one of the most common and effective ways to raise money. Crowdfunding is just a fancy word for collecting small donations from lots of people, mostly folks you already know. You set up a donation page, share your story, set a goal, and start spreading the word.
We’ve seen this work time and time again. What helps most? A clear reason why you’re raising money, an honest story that helps people connect, and a simple ask. Bonus tip: add a photo or video, it makes a big difference.
2. Host a virtual event
Don’t want to ask for money directly? Invite people to join something fun instead. You can host a virtual trivia night, a cooking class, a talent show, even a Zoom dance party. Ask for a small donation to attend, and keep it light and personal.
Virtual events are great because they bring people together, even if they’re far apart. Plus, they give folks something to look forward to, and a reason to support you.
3. Sell digital products or services
Got a skill or hobby? Turn it into a quick fundraiser. You can sell things like eBooks, design templates, digital art, or even coaching sessions. Think of what you already know how to do, and how that might help someone else.
Even simple things, like a printable meal planner or a custom Spotify playlist, can raise money when shared with the right crowd.
4. Start a recurring giving option
This one’s about thinking long-term. Instead of asking for one big donation, give people the option to support you monthly. Even $5 a month from a few friends adds up quickly, and helps you build steady support.
Easy fundraising ideas with friends and family
When you’re raising money, your biggest supporters are often right around you, your friends, family members, neighbors, and coworkers. You don’t have to reach thousands of strangers to make an impact. Sometimes, it’s those closest to you who’ll show up in a big way.
5. Birthday or celebration fundraiser
Instead of gifts, ask your friends and family to donate to your cause. It’s simple and heartfelt. Just say, “This year, instead of presents, I’d love your help with something that matters to me.” You can even add a goal like: “Help me raise $300 by my birthday.”
We’ve seen this turn into something really special, especially when people feel like they’re celebrating with you, not just giving money.
6. “In lieu of” fundraising campaign
Got a wedding, graduation, or retirement coming up? It’s the perfect time to ask for donations “in lieu of” something else. A couple might say, “Instead of a wedding registry, we’re raising funds for a cause close to our hearts.” Or you can do the same in honor of someone you’ve lost.
These types of fundraisers feel deeply personal, and they give people a chance to contribute to something meaningful.
7. Host a backyard movie night or game tournament
Make it fun and casual. Pick a night, invite friends over, and ask for a small donation at the door. You don’t need anything fancy, just a projector, some popcorn, and a cause worth supporting.
You can also try a board game night, card tournament, or karaoke contest. People love gathering for a good time, and it’s even better when it’s for a good reason.
8. Create a matching gift challenge
This one works well if someone close to you is willing to help double the impact. Ask a family member or friend to match donations up to a certain amount. For example: “My aunt will match every donation up to $250 this weekend only!”
It gives people an extra reason to give, because their gift goes twice as far.
Community-based fundraising ideas
Your neighborhood, school, or local group can be an amazing support system when you tap into it the right way. These ideas are all about showing up in your community, connecting face-to-face, and giving people an easy way to pitch in.
9. Partner with a local business
A lot of small businesses want to support local causes, they just don’t always know how. Try asking your favorite coffee shop, restaurant, or gym if they’d be willing to host a giveback day. Something like, “10% of sales on Saturday go to support my fundraiser.”
It helps you raise money and brings more customers to the business. Win-win.
Tip: Make it easy for them, offer to share flyers, post on social, or even help out during the event.
10. Bake sales or food-related events
They’re classic for a reason. Everyone loves a good cookie or slice of banana bread, especially when it supports something meaningful. You can set up at a school, park, church, or even outside a local business (with permission).
If you want to make it a little bigger, try a chili cook-off, pancake breakfast, or snack stand at a community event.
Keep your signs simple and your prices low. People are more likely to donate when things feel casual and fun.
11. Host a community yard sale
This one’s great if you (and your friends) have stuff to get rid of. Gather items, pick a weekend, and invite neighbors to come shop. You can even ask others to donate things they no longer need for the sale.
Add a sign that says all proceeds go to your fundraiser, it helps people feel good about spending.
Tip: Combine this with a bake sale or lemonade stand for even more visibility.
12. Organize a neighborhood walkathon
Walkathons are easy to plan and work for all ages. Pick a route, set a date, and invite people to walk and donate. You can ask for a small sign-up fee or ask walkers to collect pledges (like $5 per lap or mile).
Add music, snacks, or a small raffle to make it more of an event. You don’t need to be fancy, just organized and enthusiastic.
Creative and skill-based fundraising ideas for individuals
Sometimes the best way to raise funds is to do what you already love, or what you’re already good at. You’d be surprised how many people will donate for a small service, a personalized gift, or even just a fun experience they can join.
13. Offer skill-based services
Think about something you’re already doing for friends or family, like tutoring, personal training, dog walking, or resume help. Now offer it to your wider circle in exchange for donations.
You don’t need to overthink it. Just post: “I’m offering 1-on-1 music lessons this month to support my fundraiser. Suggested donation: $30 per session.” Easy, helpful, and effective.
14. Custom art or craft commissions
If you’re into painting, knitting, lettering, or anything creative, this is your moment. Let people request custom work in exchange for a donation.
We’ve seen folks do things like: pet portraits, digital illustrations, handmade candles, jewelry, or crochet. People love personalized gifts, and they love knowing their money supports a cause too.
15. Photography for events
Are you handy with a camera? Offer to take family photos, graduation shots, or event coverage in exchange for donations. Set up mini sessions on a weekend and keep it casual.
Even if you’re not a pro, many people would be happy to support your fundraiser and get nice pictures in return.
16. Launch a “teach something” mini-course
You don’t have to be a teacher to teach. Think about something small and useful, how to bake sourdough, basic guitar chords, or intro to watercolor.
Host it on Zoom or record a short video class. People can donate to join or get access. It’s a simple way to raise money and share something you enjoy.
Low-lift fundraising ideas when you’re short on time
Some days you don’t have the energy for a full-blown fundraiser, and that’s totally okay. These ideas take very little prep and still bring in donations. Great for busy schedules or when you just want to get something going quickly.
17. Start a penny drive or coin jar challenge
Ask friends, family, or coworkers to drop spare change in a jar over the next week or month. It may not feel like much, but coins add up faster than you think.
You can make it more fun by turning it into a friendly contest, who can collect the most change by Friday?
Tip: Share photos of the jar filling up to keep people excited.
18. Launch a “give it up” campaign
Here’s the idea: ask your network to give up something small (like coffee or takeout) for one week and donate what they would’ve spent.
It’s a super simple pitch: “Skip one fancy coffee this week? That $6 could help me reach my goal.”
No event, no setup, just a clear and relatable ask.
19. Envelope fundraising
Write dollar amounts ($1 to $50, or whatever range you want) on envelopes, and ask people to “claim” one. If all envelopes get picked, you hit your goal. You can do this in person or virtually by posting a grid online.
It’s visual, interactive, and helps people choose a donation that fits their budget.
20. Host a 50/50 raffle
Sell tickets for a small amount, like $5 each, and let people know that half the pot goes to the winner, and the other half goes to your fundraiser.
Make sure to check local rules before running a raffle, just to be safe. This idea works great at in-person events, but it can also work online with the right setup.
Promote your fundraising campaign effectively
Even the best fundraising idea won’t go far if people don’t know about it. The good news? You don’t need a big following or fancy ads. Just a few smart ways to share your message, and make it easy for others to share it too.
How to write a powerful call to action
A call to action is just a friendly ask. It tells people exactly what you want them to do, and why it matters. Don’t overthink it.
Try things like:
- “Donate $10 today and help me reach my goal.”
- “Even $5 makes a big difference. Can you chip in?”
- “Can’t give right now? Please share this with someone who might.”
The key? Keep it short, clear, and personal.
Best platforms to share your campaign
Start with the places where your friends and family already are. For most people, that means:
- Facebook (great for personal posts and family outreach)
- Instagram (stories, reels, and feed posts)
- Email (still one of the best ways to reach people)
- Group texts or group chats (yes, these work)
Post more than once. Not everyone sees it the first time, and reminders help, especially as you get closer to your goal.
Visuals that convert
Pictures matter. So do short videos. People are more likely to stop, read, and give when they can see you, your cause, or what their donation will help.
Add a clear photo of yourself, your project, or something related to your story. Even a short video from your phone can make a big impact, it helps people connect.
Keep donors updated
Don’t forget to post updates. Tell people how much you’ve raised, what’s left, and what their support has helped you do. Updates keep people engaged, and sometimes bring in repeat donations.
You can say something like:
- “We’re halfway there! Thank you to everyone who’s donated so far.”
- “Just $100 left to hit the goal. One final push!”
A little gratitude goes a long way.
Engage early supporters as ambassadors
The people who donate early are usually your biggest fans. Ask them to help spread the word.
You can say: “Thanks so much for your gift! Would you be willing to share this on your page or with a few friends?”
Make it easy by giving them a short message or graphic they can copy and paste. Most people want to help, you just have to ask.
Make your campaign stand out with emotional storytelling
People don’t just give to causes, they give to stories. If you want your fundraiser to stand out, make it personal. Let people feel why this matters to you, and how their donation will help.
How to connect through your story
The most effective fundraisers are the ones that feel honest, real, and easy to relate to. You don’t need to be a great writer. Just talk like you would to a friend.
Start with:
- What’s happening?
- Why does it matter to you?
- How will donations help?
Keep it short, clear, and focused on the why. For example:
“After losing my job, I’ve been trying to keep up with medical bills. I’m asking for help to cover one month of expenses so I can stay afloat while I job hunt.”
It doesn’t have to be dramatic. It just has to be true. And the more you share from the heart, the more people will lean in.
Use donor impact language
Help people see what their donation will do. Instead of just saying “please donate,” tell them what their gift makes possible.
Try lines like:
- “$10 helps cover the cost of one school lunch.”
- “$25 fills a care bag for a family in need.”
- “Every $5 brings me closer to my goal.”
People like knowing exactly where their money is going. It builds trust and makes them feel part of the impact.
Bonus: When you show that even small donations matter, more people feel comfortable giving.
Keep it simple
You don’t have to be a pro fundraiser to make something amazing happen. Whether you’ve got a big goal or just want to get started with something small, the most important step is to start. Use what you have. Lean on your people. Keep it simple and personal.
Remember, effective fundraising doesn’t come from having a perfect plan, it comes from being real, staying consistent, and inviting others to be part of your story.
Want to make your next fundraiser easier, smarter, and more impactful? Partner with Harness to access powerful tools and expert support, so you can focus on your mission.
