Most groups work incredibly hard to run a successful campaign, but very few organizers spend enough time finding the best price on fundraising products. And that’s a missed opportunity, because every dollar saved at the moment of purchase becomes an extra dollar earned for your fundraiser — instantly, automatically, and without any additional effort from your team.
Every Dollar Saved Is a Dollar Earned — Literally
In product‑based fundraising, your profit margin is created before the first item is sold.
If you pay too much for the products, your fundraiser starts with a built‑in handicap.
If you secure a better price, your fundraiser starts with a built‑in advantage.
It’s that simple.
Saving $1 per item on a 500‑item order = $500 more profit.
Saving $2 per item = $1,000 more profit.
No extra selling. No extra volunteers. No extra stress.
Just smarter purchasing.
This is why the most successful fundraising groups treat purchasing like a strategic decision — not a formality.
Why Organizers Often Overlook Pricing
Most fundraising organizers are volunteers. They’re juggling work, family, and responsibilities. When a supplier says, “This is the standard price,” it’s tempting to accept it and move on.
But here’s the truth:
- The “standard” price is rarely the best price.
- The “recommended” supplier is not always the most affordable.
- The “usual” product is not always the highest‑profit option.
And because organizers are busy, they often skip the step that could add hundreds or thousands of dollars to their results: price comparison.
The Psychology Behind Skipping the Price Step
There are three common reasons organizers don’t spend enough time on pricing:
1. Decision fatigue
Fundraisers involve dozens of decisions. By the time organizers reach the purchasing stage, they’re tired — and suppliers know this.
2. Fear of “rocking the boat”
Some groups feel uncomfortable negotiating or asking for better pricing, even though suppliers expect it.
3. The illusion of urgency
Many organizers feel rushed to launch the fundraiser quickly, so they skip the research phase. Ironically, taking an extra 24 hours to compare prices can increase profits more than any other single action.
Price Isn’t Everything — But It Always Matters
Of course, pricing is not the only factor that determines success.
You still need:
- A product people want
- A realistic selling price
- A motivated team
- A clear timeline
- Good communication
But all things being equal, the group that pays less always earns more.
Better pricing doesn’t replace good planning — it amplifies it.
The Hidden Power of Negotiation
Most organizers don’t realize they can:
- Ask for volume discounts
- Request shipping savings
- Compare multiple suppliers
- Negotiate better margins
- Choose products with naturally higher profit percentages
A 5‑minute conversation can increase your profit dramatically.
And suppliers expect it — especially in the fundraising industry.
Hidden Costs That Destroy Fundraising Profits
Even when the product price looks good, hidden costs can quietly eat your margin:
1. Shipping fees
Some suppliers offer low product prices but high shipping costs.
2. Minimum order quantities
If you’re forced to buy more than you need, your profit shrinks.
3. Packaging and handling fees
These can add $0.25–$1.00 per item without you noticing.
4. Payment terms
Some suppliers charge extra for credit card payments or require deposits.
5. Returns and unsold inventory
If the supplier doesn’t offer buy‑back options, you carry all the risk.
A smart organizer evaluates the total landed cost, not just the sticker price.
Why This Matters Even More Today
Families are stretched. Communities are tired of constant fundraising.
People want to support your cause, but they also want value.
When you secure better pricing:
- You can offer better selling prices
- You can offer higher profit margins
- You reduce pressure on families
- You reach your goal faster
Everyone wins.
The Real Question: Are Organizers Spending Enough Time on This Step?
In most cases, the answer is no.
Not because they don’t care — but because they don’t realize how much money is being left on the table.
A fundraiser can do everything right:
- Great product
- Great participation
- Great communication
…but if the group overpays for the products, the fundraiser will never reach its full potential.
A Simple Example That Changes Everything
School A
Pays $10 per item
Sells for $20
Profit per item: $10
School B
Finds a better supplier
Pays $8 per item
Sells for $20
Profit per item: $12
If both schools sell 500 items:
- School A earns $5,000
- School B earns $6,000
Same effort.
Same product.
Same community.
$1,000 difference — just from finding a better price.
This is why the purchasing phase is the most underrated part of fundraising.
How Much Time Should Organizers Spend on Pricing?
Not hours.
Not days.
Just enough time to:
- Compare 2–3 suppliers
- Ask for volume pricing
- Check shipping costs
- Confirm total landed cost
- Review profit margins
This can be done in 30–45 minutes — and can increase profits by 20–40%.
The Bottom Line
Fundraising success isn’t just about selling more — it’s about keeping more of what you sell.
And that starts with one smart decision:
**Spend the time to find the best price on fundraising products.
Because every dollar saved is a dollar earned.**
Your cause deserves every one of those dollars.
Smart discounts lower the cost for buyers and boost the profit for your fundraiser.
Check out Gogo‑Fund’s current offers and discounts by clicking the image below.
