Looking for the best way to run a school fundraiser that actually works? From classroom technology to sports travel, schools are always in need of extra funds. But here’s the challenge: not every fundraiser is easy, profitable, or parent-friendly.
The secret to success isn’t just choosing a fundraiser — it’s knowing how to plan, promote, and execute it the right way. That’s why we’ve put together this complete guide on how to run a school fundraiser step by step, filled with practical tips to help you raise more with less stress.
Pro Tip: Want to skip the guesswork? Download our free School Fundraiser Kickoff Checklist to keep your fundraiser on track from day one.
A successful fundraiser begins with a clear target. Without one, it’s easy for momentum (and motivation) to fade.
Goals give parents and students a clear purpose for participating.
They provide a measurable benchmark for success.
They make it easier to celebrate when the goal is reached.
Decide exactly what the money will fund. Example: “$6,000 for new playground equipment.”
Break the goal into smaller amounts, like “$50 per student.”
Share the goal everywhere — in emails, flyers, and on progress boards.
Related: How to Calculate Fundraiser Profit Margins
Not every school is the same, and neither are fundraisers. Picking the right one makes all the difference in profits and participation.
Cookie Dough Fundraiser – Always a top seller, especially around the holidays.
Popcorn & Snacks Fundraiser– Affordable and irresistible for families.
Candle Fundraiser – Perfect for seasonal sales and gift-giving.
Walk-a-thon or Fun Run – Students collect pledges and build school spirit.
Talent Show Fundraiser – Families pay admission while students shine.
Carnival Night – Games, food, and tickets bring in funds and fun.
Read-a-thon – Students earn pledges for minutes or pages read.
Pledge-a-thon – Money raised per lap, point, or activity.
Online Donations – Easy for parents and extended family to contribute.
Did You Know? Midland Fundraising provides free catalogs, online stores, and marketing tools with every fundraiser to make setup and promotion easy.
Even the best fundraiser can flop if one person tries to do it all. The secret is teamwork.
Coordinator: Oversees everything.
Treasurer: Handles orders and money collection.
Marketing Helper: Promotes through flyers, emails, and social media.
Delivery Lead: Organizes pickup day and product distribution.
Pro Tip: Use a simple digital sign-up tool like SignUpGenius to recruit parents quickly.
A fundraiser is only as good as its promotion. The more people who hear about it, the higher your sales.
Send home flyers (Midland provides these at no cost).
Use social media posts and short videos to reach busy parents.
Announce the fundraiser at PTA meetings, school assemblies, and in newsletters.
Offer small incentives like gift cards or pizza parties for top-selling classes.
Want to make promotion even easier? Midland includes ready-to-use digital and print materials with every fundraiser. Request your free catalog today.
Momentum is everything. Without it, participation drops off fast.
Post a fundraising thermometer in a central school location.
Share weekly updates via email or social media.
Celebrate milestones — halfway, 75%, and goal reached.
Spotlight top sellers or most active classrooms.
Kids love visuals, and parents get motivated when they see progress.
One of the biggest concerns for schools is managing fundraiser money properly. Families want assurance that funds are safe and transparent.
Collect money daily and deposit frequently.
Use sealed envelopes or digital collection options.
Always count funds with two people present.
Keep clear, transparent records to share with families.
This transparency builds trust and encourages future participation.
Don’t just close the books — end with energy and gratitude.
Announce how much was raised and exactly what it will fund.
Thank students, teachers, volunteers, and parents publicly.
Share photos and results on social media.
Celebrate with a small reward or recognition ceremony.
A strong finish keeps families excited for your next fundraiser.
Set clear goals
Choose the right fundraiser
Recruit volunteers
Create a promotion plan
Track progress
Handle money safely
Wrap up and celebrate
One elementary school in Michigan raised over $8,000 in just three weeks by combining a cookie dough fundraiser with social media promotion. With clear goals, parent volunteers, and free marketing materials from Midland, they doubled their original target — proof that planning makes all the difference.
How do you make a school fundraiser successful?
Pick a fundraiser that fits your community, promote it well, and keep energy high with updates and incentives.
What is the easiest fundraiser for schools?
Product fundraisers like cookie dough and popcorn are the easiest because materials are provided and profits are high.
How long should a school fundraiser last?
Most fundraisers run for 2–3 weeks. Any longer and participation usually drops off.
What fundraiser makes the most money for schools?
High-demand products like cookie dough, holiday catalogs, and popcorn consistently bring in the highest profits.
How do you get parents involved in fundraising?
Make it simple — use digital communication, set small goals, and celebrate participation publicly.
Can a school run multiple fundraisers in one year?
Yes! Many schools run one product fundraiser in the fall and another in the spring to maximize earnings.
Running a school fundraiser doesn’t have to be stressful. With clear goals, the right fundraiser, and a solid promotion plan, your school can raise more money while keeping parents and students excited.
By following these steps, you’ll know exactly how to run a school fundraiser that succeeds year after year.
Ready to get started? Request your free fundraising catalog today or download our School Fundraiser Kickoff Checklist to make your next fundraiser your best one yet.
© Midland Fundraising 2025. All rights reserved.
