Fundraising doesn’t have to break the bank. With creativity, organization, and the right approach, you can start a fundraiser with no money. Below are strategies using low-cost promotional tools like brochures and order-takers, along with community events like movie nights and potluck dinners.

1. Leverage Brochures & Order-Takers

Why It Works:

Brochures are tangible reminders people can share, and order-takers (catalog-style fundraisers) turn every supporter into a salesperson.

a. Create Digital Brochures

• Design for free:If you have your own products to sell, create a compelling PDF using tools such as Canva or Google Slides. Otherwise, companies like Gogo-Fund provide turnkey solutions with pre-selected, packaged products and deliver brochures and order-taker materials to your home or organization for free.
• Distribute online: Share via email, social media, and your organization’s newsletter.
• Printable option: Offer a print-at-home version so supporters can post or hand out brochures.

b. Recruit “Order-Takers”

• What they do: Volunteers collect orders and payment, then submit totals to your group.
• How to pitch it: Emphasize it’s risk-free—no one buys until they commit, and you supply the product only after payment.
• Easy tracking: Provide simple order forms (Google Forms, spreadsheets, or printable sheets) so volunteers can tally sales and submit electronically.

2. Host Community-Focused Events

Events build excitement, showcase your cause, and can even break even or net a profit—often with no upfront costs.

a. Movie Night Under the Stars

1. Venue: Partner with a local park, school yard, or community center that lends space for free.
2. Equipment: Borrow a projector and sound system from school AV or a supportive business.
3. Admission: Charge a small per-person or per-family “cover” (e.g., $5–$10).
4. Concessions: Ask volunteers to bring popcorn, snacks, and drinks; sell for a markup.
5. Promotion: Use your digital brochure and social media to advertise—encourage families to bring blankets and lawn chairs.

b. Potluck Dinner & Recipe Swap

1. Venue: Host at someone’s home, church hall, or school cafeteria at no cost.
2. Sign-Up: Create an online potluck sign-up (Google Sheets or signup.com) so dishes are varied and quantities planned.
3. Suggested Donation: Ask for a flat donation (e.g., $10 per family) at the door.
4. Add-Ons: Sell recipe cards or small kitchen gadgets donated by supporters.
5. Community Building: Include a raffle or silent auction of donated items to boost fundraising.

c. DIY Workshops or Classes

• Examples: Flower arranging, basic car maintenance, or crafting.
• How to run for free: Partner with knowledgeable volunteers who donate their expertise.
• Revenue model: Charge a per-participant fee or request a “love offering” at the end.
• Cross-promo: Use your brochure to advertise upcoming workshop dates and gather orders for supplies in bulk.

3. Key Tips for Zero-Cost Success

1. In-Kind Partnerships: Seek donations of space, equipment, or expertise from local businesses and community centers.
2. Volunteer Mobilization: Engage enthusiastic parents, students, or community members as your event planners, hosts, and order-takers.
3. Clear Messaging: Your brochure and event invites should explain your cause, goals, and why every dollar matters.
4. Follow-Up: After each event or brochure distribution, send a thank-you email detailing results and next steps—this fosters goodwill and repeat support.
5. Use Free Tools: Google Workspace (Forms, Sheets), Canva, social media platforms, and community bulletin boards keep costs at zero.

4. Turning Zero Into Something Big

With brochures that inform and inspire, order-takers who extend your reach, and community events that engage hearts and wallets, you can start a fundraiser with no money—and sustain it without any upfront investment. All you need is passion, planning, and the willingness to tap into your community’s generosity and resources.

Ready to get your fundraiser started?

• Draft your digital brochure today.
• Recruit your first batch of order-takers.
• Pick an event date and venue partner.

With these zero-cost tools in hand, your fundraising success is just a few clicks and calls away!