How to run a fundraising prize draw or raffle for maximum impact

How to run a fundraising prize draw or raffle for maximum impact

A fundraising raffle or charity prize draw is one of the most engaging and rewarding ways to raise money and awareness for your cause. Whether you're a nonprofit, school, community group, or corporate,adding a raffle or prize draw to your event can boost participation and donations significantly.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to run a successful charity and fundraising raffle, whether it’s a standalone draw or integrated into a larger event like a gala dinner or awards night.

Why host a charity raffle or fundraising prize draw?

A charity raffle is a low-barrier way for people to support a cause, supporters get the chance to win exciting prizes, and your organisation raises much-needed funds. It also helps create buzz, attract new donors, and engage existing supporters.

Whether it’s a traditional raffle or a digital fundraising prize draw, the format is flexible, scalable, and effective.

1. Incorporating a raffle into a larger event

One of the best ways to maximise participation in your charity raffle is by hosting it as part of a larger event. Think:

• Gala dinners
• Community fun days
• Awards shows
• Corporate fundraising events

Tying your fundraising raffle into a larger experience builds excitement and ensures a built-in audience. For example, announcing the winner live during a black-tie awards evening adds a sense of theatre and makes it memorable.

2. Source prizes through donations or sponsorship

High-quality, attractive prizes are key to driving ticket sales. Rather than cutting into your budget, reach out to local businesses, community partners, and corporate sponsors to donate prizes or sponsor the draw.

Benefits for prize sponsors:

• Exposure and brand alignment with a good cause
• Logo placement at your event and in promotional materials
• Mention on social media, email campaigns, and raffle platforms

From gift baskets to exclusive experiences or tech gadgets, donated prizes make your charity prize draw more profitable and appealing.

3. Use technology to simplify and scale your raffle

Gone are the days of handwritten ticket stubs! Using technology platforms like Emma (a digital raffle and fundraising prize draw tool), you can run everything online, from ticket sales to winner selection.

Why use an online raffle platform like Emma?

• Secure, contactless payments
• Real-time sales tracking
• Automatic winner selection and notification
• Integration with your social media and event tools

Digital tools make it easier to manage compliance, reduce admin, and expand your reach beyond just the event attendees. Even supporters who can’t attend in person can buy tickets and contribute.

4. Promote your fundraising raffle

A successful fundraising prize draw needs strong promotion. Use every channel at your disposal:

• Social media campaigns with visuals of the prizes
• Email newsletters
• Influencer or ambassador support
• Posters or digital signage at your venue
• Your event or charity’s website

Make it clear how to enter, what they can win, and where the money goes. Be transparent and enthusiastic.

5. Run the draw and celebrate your winners

Host the draw at a specific time, ideally at a peak moment in your event like the end of a dinner or awards ceremony. Create a buzz around it with music, visuals, and perhaps even a guest host.

Whether you're using Emma or another platform, ensure the draw is seen as fair, transparent, and fun. After the event, celebrate your winners online (with permission) and thank all who participated.

Final tips for a successful charity raffle

• Keep it simple and legal: Make sure you understand local fundraising and raffle regulations.
• Set clear fundraising goals and track your performance.
• Publicly thank donors, sponsors, and participants to build long-term goodwill.
• Use your charity and fundraising event to capture new leads and supporters for future campaigns.

A well-run fundraising raffle or charity prize draw can be a game-changer for your next event. Whether it’s woven into a gala or hosted entirely online with platforms like Emma, it’s an exciting, effective way to raise funds while engaging your community.

With the right prizes, smart promotion, and use of technology, your charity and fundraising raffle can deliver real results and lasting impact.

Need help launching your charity raffle or fundraising prize draw? Reach out to our team or explore tools like Emma to get started today.