From Getaways to Gadgets: Best Raffle Prize Ideas for Nonprofits

Raffles are among the most effective fundraising tools nonprofits can use to engage supporters and boost donations. As leaders in nonprofit fundraising technology, we at BetterUnite have worked with countless organizations to plan successful raffles. Of all the details and data we have tracked, one of the standout features is are thoughtful and personalized raffle prizes. From golf tournament fundraisers to silent auctions and heads-or-tales, this information on prizes will help you make your raffle a smash hit.

Exclusive Experiences

Experiences create lasting memories that tangible items sometimes can't match. While you can't be sure who will want a particular car or who doesn't want cases of red wine; everyone can use (and would want) a vacation at some point throughout the year. Depending on how big you're willing or want to go, prizes can range from beach vacations to curated picnics at your local park. Depending on the demographic of your supporters, consider whether most of them can financially support a two-week safari or would be more inclined to a family weekend at the local lake house Airbnb. Below are some key takeaways when deciding on an exclusive experience raffle prize:

• Ideal for consistent local engagement
• Easy to source through community donations
• Appeals broadly across demographic groups

Adventure Activities

For supporters who crave excitement, consider thrilling prizes that can be done locally, such as skydiving, ziplining, or white-water rafting adventures. If you attract a younger audience, this will be a smash hit as it does not depend on personal items or time commitments. Additionally, older folks usually have someone in mind for whom they are willing to buy a ticket, i.e., a grandkid, nephew, niece, etc. The buzz that an exciting prize like this will also circulate through the crowds at your event. Below are some key takeaways when deciding on an adventure activity raffle prize:

• Attracts thrill-seekers and younger participants
• Often available via sponsorship or donation
• Memorable and exciting, promoting word-of-mouth

Gourmet Food & Wine Baskets

In contrast to exotic vacations and adventure activities, sometimes going simple will yield the best result for your event. If your nonprofit is hosting a smaller event, a gift basket never goes wrong [See here for a more detailed look at Silent Auction Gift Basket Ideas.] These baskets can be easily customized and often assembled through local business donations, giving them local sentimentality and making them cost-effective. Below are some key takeaways when deciding on a gourmet food and wine basket raffle prize:

• High perceived value, yet often affordable through sponsorship
• Versatile for different demographics
• Easily customized to your event's theme

Electronics

Electronics consistently brings in raffle ticket purchases. The latest and newest model of high-value items such as smartphones, tablets, home devices, and computers will often convince people to submit for a chance to upgrade their current model. Again, depending on your budget, event size, and supporter profile, you could offer smaller devices, such as Bluetooth speakers, fitness devices, and kitchen appliances. Below are some key takeaways when deciding on an electronic raffle prize:

• Universal appeal across demographics
• Strong promotional value
• Often attainable via corporate sponsorships

Memberships and Subscriptions

Everyone has them, and no one wants to think about them or deal with them: memberships. For example, help your supporters have peace of mind and relieve them of their monthly Netflix membership. Memberships and subscriptions offer endless opportunities; this is an excellent prize for practicing segmentation. Winners will often think of your organization when enjoying the benefits of the membership. Would your supporters be interested in a meal kit service or gym membership? Or would they lean more toward a streaming service or monthly gourmet food delivery? Below are some key takeaways when deciding on membership and subscription-style raffle prizes:

• Continuous engagement with winners
• Cost-effective via nonprofit discounts or donations
• Encourages repeat involvement and long-term donor relationships

Local Business Gift Cards and Services

If you support your local businesses, they will support you! Don't ever forget the power of your town or city's community. Gift cards to your local cafe, restaurant, or grocer will be relatively easy to obtain and resonate highly with your supporters. The owner may help you purchase more tickets for your event. Service-based prizes such as house cleanings or landscaping services offer practical value for your strictly business supporters. Below are some key takeaways when deciding on local business raffle prizes:

• Strengthens community ties
• Broad appeal and practical usefulness
• Easily obtained through in-kind donations

High-Value Grand Prizes

Now, of course, to end with, we have the big prizes. These will be your cars, boats, cash prizes, and luxury vacations that will drive up the price of tickets and trigger the gambler in us all. However, these will require considerable donations and sponsorships from your partners. The grand prize raffle can be a marketing draw for wealthier donors and increase the size of your event altogether. Below are some key takeaways when deciding on high-value raffle prizes:

• Significant promotional draw
• Drives substantial ticket sales
• Enhances the perceived prestige of your event

Practical Tips for Successful Prize Sourcing

The top things to remember when sourcing an item are budget, community resources, corporate sponsorships, and nonprofit discounts. When requesting a donation or sponsorship, prepare your communication beforehand. Go over the importance and key value points your nonprofit offers. If you are discussing a local partnership, don't forget to emphasize the mutual benefit of getting their product or service in front of potential customers.

• Leverage in-kind donations and corporate sponsorships
• Communicate mutual benefits to potential donors
• Publicly acknowledge support to foster ongoing relationships

Conclusion

As experts in nonprofit fundraising, BetterUnite is committed to bringing you the information you need to maximize the success of every event. With these core tips for selecting raffle prize items, you'll be prepared to analyze and decide which prize is the best for your nonprofit's event. Remember, aligning your prize with your donor's preferences and interests is key to an effective raffle. Keep this in mind, and you'll have no problem selling tickets.