In our recent webinar with Angela Burgess (Laying a Foundation for Growth), we covered strategies to increase individual giving.
One simple yet powerful idea was to run one extra fundraising campaign this year.
Nonprofits often rely on the same annual appeals, but adding one more campaign – strategically planned – can unlock new donors and increase engagement with existing supporters.
What we didn’t get to cover in the webinar is how to run an extra campaign. Here are 5 types of campaign ideas to get you started:
1. Crisis Campaign
A timely, urgent campaign centered on an immediate need. Think disaster relief, unexpected expenses, or policy shifts affecting your community. A well-crafted crisis appeal can mobilize donors quickly and bring in first-time givers.
Key Tip: Make the urgency clear. Why does this need funding right now? Use a deadline and matching gifts to increase momentum..
2. Story Campaign
People give when they feel connected to a cause. This campaign focuses on one compelling story – such as a client, volunteer, or impact moment – and tells it across multiple platforms (email, social media, direct mail).
Key Tip: Use the StoryBrand storytelling framework to structure your messaging. Replicate the story in emails, social posts, and your donation page so donors hear a consistent, powerful narrative.
3. Program-Specific Campaign
Instead of a general appeal, you can focus on raising funds for one specific program. Has your organization launched any new programs or initiatives in the last year or two? Do you have programs you wish more people knew about? Program-based campaigns bring attention to these initiatives while giving supporters a clear, tangible reason to donate.
Key Tip: Highlight the cost of impact. Show donors exactly what their gift accomplishes (e.g., “$50 provides one week of after-school tutoring”).
4. Video Campaign
A high-quality video can elevate any fundraising push. Whether it’s a gala video, a behind-the-scenes look at your work, or a short documentary, video grabs attention in ways text can’t. One of our clients recently commissioned a 20-minute documentary weaving together several client stories in one impactful film. Not only did it win several awards, but it’s given them months of content and a powerful way to connect with their audience.
Key Tip: Keep it short and emotional. A 60-90 second video works best. Even if you create a longer video, you can split it up into shorter segments for many months of digital content. Upload your video to social media, embed in emails, and feature it on your donation page.
5. Engage in Local Events
Take advantage of existing community events to raise awareness and funds for your organization. Participating in or hosting fundraising activities at well-attended events can help you connect with new donors and build local support.
In my home city of Lancaster, PA – a small city of just over 70,000 – we have dozens of these events throughout the year. First Fridays, Water Week, Park(ing) Day, Earth Day, and ExtraGive all give local organizations a chance to engage with the community and raise money. What events are happening in your community that you can participate in?
Key Tip: Engage your supporters by creating an interactive experience—raffles, live donations, and storytelling booths can make a big impact.
Whatever campaign you choose, make sure it:
- Addresses a real, legitimate need
- Is timed strategically (not overlapping with another major ask)
- Has a specific goal ($10,000 for a program, 100 new donors, etc.)
- Uses the principles of storytelling to guide donors through a clear journey
- Is repeated across multiple platforms (email, social, web, and direct mail)
Adding just one extra campaign this year could be the difference between hitting your fundraising goals or exceeding them.
Want to go deeper? We’ve partnered with Angela Burgess (Broad Oaks Consulting) to offer Laying a Foundation Your Way: a complete roadmap to sustainable fundraising. This accelerator program includes:
- 90+ lessons and templates to guide your fundraising efforts
- Monthly group coaching with Angela and other nonprofit professionals
- Proven strategies that have helped organizations increase revenue by up to 697%
- Flexible, self-paced learning so you can implement changes at your own speed
Until April 1, you can purchase the full course and group coaching for just $2,945 (usually $4,995). Just use the code “LFGYW2025.” This program gives you everything you need to start building a sustainable fundraising strategy.
We would love to see this be your best year yet. Will you commit to running one extra campaign this year? Let us know! We’re here to support you.
Christian Hinojosa
Communications Strategist
Solace Media
