Fundraising is raising money by asking for it. There are many different ways of doing this, and the methods used need to work for the organisation and the people being asked. Whether it’s a street collection or an event, it is important that fundraising complements a voluntary or community organisation’s primary objectives. It should promote the organisation and the work that it does.

Benefits include getting money with few strings, promoting your cause, and involving lots of people. But it can involve lots of effort for very little return, and you need to comply with regulations to run things like raffles, bingo or street collections, as these may need a licence.

Without careful planning and organisation, fundraising activities could be a waste of resources and risk irritating established supporters.

This overview explores the benefits and pitfalls of different types of fundraising for your voluntary or community organisation.