Research-Backed Insights on What Makes Fundraisers More Successful
Behind every successful fundraiser are volunteers, donors, and supporters who believe in your cause. Yet, belief alone isn’t enough to guarantee strong results. Research shows that framing your message, using communication tools, and fostering personal connections can significantly influence participation and revenue. At MCM Fundraising, we combine these proven insights with practical tools, ensuring that your school, team, or nonprofit can reach more supporters and maximize every effort.
Research-Based Fundraising Insights You Can Use
Mission-Centered Messaging
Studies consistently show donors respond most emotionally when they connect emotionally with a cause. Instead of focusing only on the product sold, highlight the “why” behind your mission—supporting a school trip, equipping a sports team, or funding a community program. Values like loyalty, community, and positive impact inspire giving. When your fundraiser feels like a chance to make a real difference, supporters are far more likely to participate and contribute generously.
Digital Engagement
Today’s donors expect convenience. Campaigns that embrace digital tools—such as email outreach, text reminders, and social media posts—have much higher participation rates. Research indicates that quick, clickable links and shareable posts expand reach beyond immediate circles, drawing in extended family, friends, and even community members who might not have otherwise been aware. Every digital touchpoint is a chance to spark action and strengthen connections.
Simplicity & Convenience
The smoother the process, the better the outcome. Studies confirm that fundraisers with minimal barriers—like online ordering, secure credit card payments, and straightforward delivery—raise more money. People are busy, and if a supporter has to jump through hoops, they’re less likely to follow through. Keeping it hassle-free helps ensure your fundraiser stays top-of-mind and easy to act on.
Seasonal Timing
Timing can make or break a campaign. Research shows that aligning your fundraiser with seasons or events creates natural momentum. Pie sales around Thanksgiving, cookie dough in the winter, or popcorn during back-to-school season often outperform fundraisers held at random times of the year. Planning strategically allows you to capitalize on the excitement and traditions already happening in your community.
Personal Connections
The most powerful factor of all: personal outreach. People give more when they feel directly asked by someone they know and trust. Encouraging students, athletes, or volunteers to contact friends, family, and neighbors often results in greater participation than impersonal appeals alone. A personal text, phone call, or face-to-face conversation carries weight, reminding donors that their contribution has both individual and community-wide impact.
Why MCM Works with the Research
At MCM Fundraising, we don’t just share insights—we put them into action. Our fundraising programs are designed to align with the evidence-backed strategies that consistently drive results:
- Streamlined online tools that make communication, ordering, and payments simple
- Flexible fundraising options tailored to seasonal demand and community preferences
- A customizable FundIt platform that lets you share your story and mission directly with supporters
- Easy-to-run programs that take the stress off volunteers and organizers
- Dedicated support from a team that understands what motivates donors and keeps campaigns on track
By blending research-driven strategies with hands-on support, MCM Fundraising helps schools, teams, and nonprofits run campaigns that are not just simple but also more innovative, engaging, and effective. When evidence meets experience, fundraising success follows.