Fundraising Tools & Tips

10 Simple Tips for Fundraising Success

1. Personalize your donation page
   Set up your personalized donation page. It lets people know that you are committed to the cause, and provides an update of your goals and donations. Sharing your page with an initial donation is key to securing more donations. People also raise 20 percent more funds when their page is personalized with a photo and story. Let them know who you cycle for.
2. Secure your first donation.
   Before you send out your fundraising page it is important to secure your first donation. Whether it is a self- donation or from a friend or family member, this sets the tone for future donations.
3. Ask your closest friends and family
   Reach out to your closest people with a personal message. Make sure to highlight the “why”.
4. Form a list
   Think of all of the people in your life and put together a list of friends, family, neighbours, local businesses, co-workers, etc. (think outside the box). Since you already reached out to your closest people, now’s the time to expand your list. Ask everyone, remember you aren’t asking for yourself.
5. Get started right away
   Get started right away. Not only does this allow you the potential to raise more money, but it will also help take off some of the pressure.
6. Remember your inspiration
   Don’t forget what you’re doing this for. It is important to remember why you chose this cause and what it means to you. This will help guide you throughout your fundraising journey.
7. Make it personal
   When asking for donations, make it personal and tell your story. Send thoughtful and personalized messages, letters, emails and cards when asking for donations. Find ways to connect and relate to the individual you are reaching out to. This will make them more likely to donate to your cause.
8. Follow-up
   It is totally okay to follow up and send friendly reminders! It’s a good opportunity to let them know how far you’ve come along and how you still need their help to stop cancer in its tracks. You can gently remind people by keeping them updated on where you are with training or fundraising. A story about training and sore muscles can go a long way. 
9. Get social
   Post on social media! It is a great platform to tell your story and share your goals with the world, which could lead to more donations.  If you don’t have social media, no need to worry, you can always get your friends or family to share on their own social media. Remember to use the hashtags: #TourAlberta #TourAlbertaForCancer #TheTourAB #TheTourAlberta
10. Send a thank you
    Once your fundraising journey has come to an end, it is important to thank your donors. This will help them feel appreciated for their contributions. Remember to let them know THEY helped Albertans facing cancer today, all over this province that we love.