Ultimate Guide to Easy Fundraising Ideas for Small Groups

The Power of Simplicity: Why Small Group Fundraising Works

The best kind of fundraisers for smaller teams are both straightforward and affordable. Think bake sales, simple raffles, or even virtual crowdfunding campaigns—ideas that are easy to put together but can make a real difference.

If you're part of a small group, fundraising can seem overwhelming. Limited time, budgets, and manpower can make it hard to get started. That’s where simple, low-cost fundraisers really shine. They’re quick to set up, easy to tailor, and still deliver great results. No matter the cause, the right ideas don't just bring in donations—they bring people together and help your cause grow. Platforms like our very own Paybee make it even easier to run fundraisers online, streamlining the process so you can focus on what matters most—your mission.

5 Reasons Small Groups Should Keep Fundraising Simple:

• You don’t need a big budget to get things going.
• Plans can come together quickly—great for when you need to raise money fast.
• Fewer volunteers are required, meaning nobody gets stretched too thin.
• It’s easy for your supporters to jump in and out and help when they can.
• There’s a reason simple ideas have a strong track record—they work!

Ready to get started? Let’s see how your small group can make an impact, one easy fundraising idea at a time.

What Are Easy Fundraising Ideas for Small Groups?

So what is “easy fundraising”? Think of fundraising ideas that require minimal setup, don’t rely on a lot of upfront spending, and can run smoothly with just a handful of people. They’re the kind of efforts that get off the ground quickly—whether you’re planning over coffee or texting your team a few nights beforehand.

What makes these ideas especially valuable is how versatile they can be. A car wash might be perfect for a youth group; a donation jar could quietly raise hundreds for a local shelter. And online or hybrid fundraisers? These can be especially helpful if you want to include friends, family, and acquaintances who live out of town but still want to be involved and do their part. 

Whatever direction you take, it helps to stick with what your group does well and what your community cares about. A simple fundraiser that feels doable and genuine will go a lot further than something complicated you can’t sustain. Small doesn’t mean limited—it means focused, manageable, and more likely to succeed.

From Bake Sales to Book Sales: 20 Easy Fundraisers for Small Groups

Fundraising doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective. Here are some ideas that are low-cost, low-stress, and easy to adapt for any small group. Whether you’ve got a weekend, a few hours, or just some creativity to spare, there are plenty of ideas here that can help you raise funds and make a difference in your community.

1. Bake Sale
   The classic. Whip up some cookies or cupcakes and sell them at a local spot. People love homemade treats, and all it takes is a little prep time and some TLC. Be sure to include special offerings for those with special dietary needs or preferences; you don’t want anyone to feel left out.
2. Car Wash
   Gather a few friends and wash cars on a weekend. It’s simple to do and can pull in plenty of donations, particularly if you can manage to set up in a high-traffic area or by a busy intersection where drivers can’t help but notice your event.
3. Raffle
   Ask around for prize donations, then sell raffle tickets. It’s fun and doesn't take a lot of work. Make it virtual to expand your donor base and raise more money, then announce winners through your social media networks; just be sure you know the rules regarding raffles in your community before getting started.
4. Yard Sale
   Host a community yard sale by offering supporters the option to rent a table for a small fee and sell their own gently used items. Alternatively, ask for donated goods and sell them yourself, with all proceeds going directly to your cause.
5. Penny Jar
   Put out a jar in a busy place and ask people to drop in their spare change. You’d be surprised how fast it adds up. A little change can go a long way.
6. Trivia Night
   Host a casual trivia game at a cafe or community center. Charge a small entry fee and offer donated prizes if possible. People love a bit of friendly competition, especially if it’s for a good cause.
7. Movie Night
   Approach local spaces like community centers, school gyms, or church basements about using their venue for a movie night. Find a well-known, family-friendly movie, invite the community to attend, and sell snacks. A laid-back, award-winning, way to fundraise.
8. Walk-a-Thon
   Have participants get pledges to walk, jog, or run a set distance. Walk-a-thons are healthy, easy to do, and appeal to all ages and demographics. To turn up the fun factor, throw in a costume theme, and see how creative your supporters can get!
9. Book Swap
   Find a cozy, inviting space in the community, make some coffee and tea,  and ask people to bring books to sell or trade for a small fee. It’s a perfect afternoon activity for book lovers to get together, find some new reads, and chat about their favorite novels and authors. 
10. Craft Fair
    Set up a space where local artists can sell their handmade goods and charge a small admission fee; attendees can support the arts and your cause at the same time. Great for quick holiday fundraisers when people are out looking for that “something special.”
11. Silent Auction
    Take donated items and have people bid online or at an event. Highlight unique or high-value items to spark interest and a bit of competition. Looking for a free PDF bidding sheet template? Click here. 
12. Potluck Dinner
    Ask people to bring their favorite dish and chip in to come join the feast. A simple and intimate way for people to get to know each other over a great meal.
13. Game Night
    Set up some tables with board games, bingo, or card games—charge a small fee for entry and offer a prize for the champs. You can even host it online, making it easy for friends and family to join from anywhere while raising funds together.
14. Spare Change Challenge
    Similar to the penny jar, but more competitive. Hand out jars to supporters and see who can fill theirs with the most coins over a few weeks. As mentioned, a little rivalry can spark generosity.
15. Talent Show
    Let people perform music, comedy, or dance and sell tickets for the show. Fun for everyone. Hosting online broadens your audience and brings the excitement straight to supporters’ homes.
16. Gift Wrapping
    Set up a station during the holidays to wrap presents for donations, or charge depending on the size of the gift. Handy and helpful! It’s an easy way to spread holiday cheer while raising money for charity.
17. Crowdfunding
    Start a fundraising page online and share it all over social media. A few shares and a couple of clicks can go a long way and help your fundraiser pick up real momentum.
18. Community Clean-Up
    Collect pledges per bag of trash picked up. It’s a simple way to get people moving, give back to the neighborhood, and raise money at the same time.
19. Breakfast Fundraiser
    It’s a simple, low-cost way to bring people together and start the day on a generous note. Throw in chocolate chips, whipped cream or blueberries as up-sell options and watch those donations climb!
20. Clothing Drive
    Most people have clothes lying around they’ll never wear again. Set up a drop-off location or offer pickup, then sort and sell the items, donating whatever is left to local shelters. It’s a simple way to clear out closets, raise funds, and help out those in need all at the same time.

If you’re looking for even more event inspiration, check out our blog on “Fun Fundraising Events” where you can find even more ideas to raise money for your cause while putting smiles on supporters' faces. 

Why Simple Fundraisers Pack a Big Punch

For a lot of small groups, keeping fundraising simple isn’t just easier—it’s what actually gets things done. You don’t have to be a big organization to make your mark. With the right approach, even a few people can spark real support and raise the money they need to keep going and growing.

What makes these easy fundraisers work so well? Most of the money raised goes directly to what matters, and getting started doesn’t require a long checklist or a large budget. Even a relaxed approach—focusing on what’s doable right now—can help you reach your goals sooner than you might think.

Here’s how simple fundraisers can make a major difference:

• They Mean More Donations, Less Stress

Affordable, no-fuss events like bake sales, car washes, or online donation drives are easy to put together, but they still attract a lot of support. Because they’re low-cost, more of the money you raise goes directly to your cause.

• They Bring People Together

Hosting a simple event—think a school bake sale, a Friday-night trivia game, or a community car wash—creates a welcoming space for people to come together. These relaxed settings make it easy for newcomers to join in on the action while helping longtime supporters reconnect, both of which can strengthen your group’s sense of community.

• They Don’t Drain Your Team

Simple ideas mean you don’t need a huge crew of volunteers or need to put in endless hours of planning. You can get things done quickly, spread the workload fairly, and keep your volunteers' energy redirected toward the real mission instead of getting buried by logistics.

• They Make Promotion Quick and Simple

When an event is straightforward and fun, it makes people want to pass along the details. A quick social media post, a text to friends, or even a mention in a local group—before you know it, you’re reaching people you never expected and drawing in brand new supporters.

• They Open the Door for Growth

You don’t need a big budget or an elaborate strategy to keep things moving. Small steps—like bringing in a few more people, collecting a few more donations, or letting a few more people know about what you're up to can have a genuine impact. Even if progress seems gradual, it adds up over time. 

Top Fundraising Trends for Small Groups in 2025

Fundraising keeps changing, and small groups are finding smart, cost-effective ways to keep up. These current trends show how even limited time and budgets can turn into big results when you focus on connection, simplicity, and fun.

Small Scale, Big Reach

One of the biggest trends in small group fundraising? Going smaller—on purpose. Community-focused, easy-going fundraisers are gaining popularity because they’re quick to organize and feel more personal. 

Examples:

• A book club raised money by hosting a used book sale on a Saturday morning.
• A community group set up a donation jar at a busy local coffee shop.
• A student group held a pancake breakfast in a school gym with pay-what-you-can plates.
  
  

Digital Fundraisers Aren’t Going Anywhere

Online fundraising continues to be a top trend—even for small teams. Tools like crowdfunding pages, email, and livestreams make it easy to run a campaign without needing a venue or volunteers on-site.

Examples:

• A nonprofit hosted virtual cooking classes with recipes and printable instructions while displaying donation links and QR codes on screen. 
• A pet rescue ran a "Cutest Pet Contest" online, where people could donate in order to cast their vote.
• A team set up a quick GoFundMe campaign and shared it through their WhatsApp and Facebook group chats.

Turning Fundraising Into a Game

Gamified giving is trending—and it works. Friendly competition helps small groups raise more while keeping supporters engaged and entertained.

Examples:

• A community center hosted a weekend trivia night at a local pub.
• A school ran a “coin wars” contest between classrooms for bragging rights.
• A youth group held a cornhole tournament with a suggested donation to enter.
  
  

Earth-Friendly Events Get Attention

Eco-conscious fundraisers are becoming a go-to choice. Supporters want to give in ways that reflect their values, and small groups are leaning into this trend with creative, low-waste events.

Examples:

• A club hosted a donation-based bike tune-up day using volunteer mechanics.
• A garden club hosted a plant swap fundraiser with a $5 entry donation.
• A scout group ran a “No New Stuff” yard sale, selling secondhand goods only.
  
  

Giving on the Go

Mobile-friendly giving is now the norm. Whether you’re online or in person, today’s donors expect to donate on the spot—fast and hassle-free.

Examples:

• A small church added a QR code to their bulletin that links to their giving page.
• A student group used Venmo for snack sales at school pickup time.
• A fundraiser team added Text-To-Give instructions to event signs and emails.
  
  

These trends highlight what small group fundraising does best: staying flexible, creative, and connected to the community. By embracing what’s current—and putting your own spin on it—you can keep things fresh, build more interest, and create lasting support for your cause.

Easy Fundraising Playbook: Strategies That Score

As we keep saying, when you’re part of a small team, pulling off a fundraiser can feel like a lot. The trick is to focus on simple ideas that your group can manage easily. You don’t need deep pockets or fancy tools—just a smart plan and a little hustle.

1. Pick Something Your Group Can Actually Pull Off

If you’ve only got a few people helping out, don’t bite off more than you can chew. Keep it realistic so you can raise money without draining your team. It’s all about matching the idea to the time, energy, and resources that you have.

2. Ask Local Businesses for a Hand

Just because you’re a small group it doesn’t mean you’re doing it alone. Reach out to nearby shops, cafes, gyms—anyone who might want to support a good cause. Some might donate products, others might sponsor part of your event or agree to share your event on their social media pages. A little local support can go a long way and helps build connections with businesses that could help you out down the road.

3. Use Simple Online Tools That Make Giving Easy

Fundraising platforms, like us right here at PayBee, are made for this kind of thing. You can set up a donation page, add QR codes to your flyers, or even create a Text-to-Donate number. People are way more likely to give if it’s quick and convenient—especially if they can do so from their phones.

4. Get the Word Out Wherever You Can

You don’t need to be a marketing pro, you just get the right info in front of the right people. That’s where social media marketing comes into play. Post in Facebook groups, drop a few messages in WhatsApp chats, and upload content to your Instagram page. Keep your graphics simple and phone-friendly. If your supporters can’t read or click it in two seconds, chances are they’ll scroll right by.

5. Follow Up Like a Human

Once your fundraiser wraps up, take a minute to say thanks. Post a few photos, share how much money you raised, and let supporters know where that money is going. You don’t need to overdo it—just be real. People appreciate the follow-up, and it makes them more likely to show up next time.

When Easy Fundraising Gets Tricky: Challenges and Solutions

Common Challenges for Small Fundraising Teams
Running a fundraiser with a small group can be really fulfilling, but it’s not always simple. With limited money, time, or people to help, even straightforward ideas can start to feel tricky. On top of that, figuring out permits or event rules can slow things down. The good news? A little prep and some creative thinking can go a long way toward making things easier.

Challenge 1: Tight Budget
It’s tough to plan something big when your budget’s small. You might have to skip the extra bells and whistles—but that doesn’t mean your fundraiser won’t work. With the right idea and a little help from your community, even a basic event can bring in solid support.

Try This:
Look into venues like schools, libraries, or parks that offer free or low-cost rental space. Use social media and email to spread the word—it’s fast and doesn’t cost anything. You can also ask nearby businesses if they’d be willing to donate a prize or give your event a shout-out. People, more often than not, are happy to help.

Challenge 2: Donor Fatigue
If you’re asking for donations all the time, even loyal supporters might start tuning out. Fundraisers that are too close together—or continuously run with the same concept—can make people feel like they’ve already done their part.

Try This:
Give people some space between donation requests and events, and try to mix up the format when you can. A new idea or theme can help keep things interesting. And don’t forget to show what their donations actually did—photos, a quick story, or an update helps people stay connected to the cause.

Challenge 3: Rules and Permits

Different cities, towns—even venues—can have their own rules when it comes to fundraising. Some might ask for permits, others need paperwork, and once in a while, there’s insurance or fees to think about. If you're not prepared it may not always be clear what’s needed until you’re knee-deep in planning, which can be frustrating if you're already short on time.

Try This:

Reach out to your local office early, before anything’s officially on the calendar. A quick call can clear up a lot. You can also talk to someone who’s hosted a similar event nearby—they’ll likely have tips or even a checklist they’re willing to share. Getting ahead of the red tape lets you focus more energy on the event itself.

Challenge 4: Volunteers Wearing Too Many Hats

In small groups, you often see the same few people doing most of the heavy lifting. And while everyone means well, it’s easy for things to pile up. One person can end up managing social media, booking the venue, and picking up supplies—and suddenly, what started out as fun starts to feel like a second job. That kind of overload leads to burnout fast.

Try This:

Break tasks into smaller chunks that are easier for people to handle. Not everyone has time to take on a whole project, but most can set aside some time to help out. Make shared documents, spreadsheets, or chat groups to keep your team up to date on what's been done and what's left to do. Being organized is key to keeping your team from feeling confused or, even worse, overwhelmed. Most importantly, don't forget to let your team know you appreciate them. Showing support and appreciation to your volunteers can make a huge difference when you start knocking on doors looking for their help for your event.

Whatever You Do… Keep Moving Forward

These challenges come with the territory, but they don’t have to throw everything off. Planning ahead, asking for help when you need it, and being flexible along the way can really ease the load. Focus on what works best for your team, even if it’s a small-scale event. What matters most is making the effort, trying new things, and celebrating the little, and, hopefully, big wins.

Sourcing Resources for Easy Fundraising Ideas

If you’re part of a small group trying to plan a fundraiser, chances are you don’t have extra money lying around. That’s okay—you don’t always need a big budget to make something work. The real trick is figuring out what you can get for free or with help and then building your event around that. Here are some smart ways to stretch your dollar…

How to Get What You Need (Without Spending Much)

• What to do: Ask for donations from local businesses.
• Why it helps: Cuts costs and builds relationships in the community.
• Real-life example: A bakery donates cookies for your event; a shop gives a gift card for a raffle.

• What to do: Bring in volunteers.
• Why it helps: Reduces workload without having to hire anyone.
• Real-life example: Friends help set up tables, run booths, or take photos. As they say, “many hands make light work.”

• What to do: Use crowdfunding platforms.
• Why it helps: It brings in money quickly and makes it easy for people to give.
• Real-life example: You set up a GoFundMe and share it in group chats and on social media.

• What to do: Use word of mouth, flyers, and social media to get the word out.
• Why it helps: The more people who hear about your fundraiser, the less (if any) you have to spend on marketing or promotion.
• Real-life example: A friend shares your event in a neighborhood Facebook group, or you ask a nearby coffee shop to hang your flyer in the window.

Keep It Simple, Keep It Smart

Fundraising doesn’t have to be expensive to be effective. With a little creativity and community support, your small group can raise money, build momentum, and make a big impact—without breaking the bank.

Fundraising Marketing Made Simple: Small Group Edition

Getting the word out doesn’t have to be complicated—even with a small team. With the right strategy and a splash of creativity, you can still make your fundraiser stand out—no marketing degree or big budget required. Just be sure to keep your message clear, friendly, and visual so it’s easy to remember—and even easier to share. Here are five simple, but cost-effective ways to spread the word about your fundraiser:

1. Make Your Social Media Feel Personal

You don’t need to post constantly—just share updates that feel real. A photo of your team setting up, a quick video explaining why you’re raising money, or even a funny moment behind the scenes can work better than a polished ad. Use hashtags, tag local pages, and ask your followers to share. Instagram Stories or Reels get great reach, especially if they’re short and mobile-friendly.

2. Send Targeted Emails That Get to the Point
Instead of sending the same email to everyone, try breaking your list into smaller groups. A short reminder to past donors might be all you need, while new supporters may want a little more context. Keep it brief—why it matters, how they can help, and one or two links max. No one likes long emails anymore.

3. Use Quick, Simple Videos
You don’t need pro equipment. The camera on your phone can be all you need. Keep the video under a minute and add subtitles if you can—most people watch with the sound off. Show who or what the fundraiser supports or give a sneak peek at the event. 

4. Ask for Help from People with Reach
Sometimes your best marketer isn’t you. It’s a teacher, a coach, a local shop owner—someone who already has a trusted voice in the community. Ask if they’ll post about your fundraiser or mention it in their circles. A single shout-out from a respected member of the community can go farther than 10 of your own posts.

5. Mix Up Your Channels
Social media is great, but don’t forget the basics. A flyer in a coffee shop, a mention in a school newsletter, a quick shout out on the radio—they all help. The more places people see or hear about your event, the more likely they are to pay attention.

Wrapping Up: Small Groups, Big Wins

Throughout this article the theme has stayed the same: raising money as a small group doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. Actually, it can be pretty simple. The easiest fundraisers often bring in the most support—just by keeping things low-cost and focusing more on the people who have taken time out of their day to show their support.

Here’s what really matters: 

✅ Make your fundraiser simple and cheap to run.

✅ Focus on building real relationships with your community.

✅ Tell your story clearly, often, and from the heart.

If you want more ideas or tips, swing by our blog anytime. Our website is jam-packed with resources to help you make your fundraiser a success. Or contact us directly here. We’re the fundraising experts and we love to “pollinate goodness.” 🐝 

FAQ's 

What are some easy fundraising ideas for small groups?

If you’re part of a small group looking to raise money without too much hassle, there are plenty of simple options. Bake sales are classic and easy to pull off—just get a few people to bake and spread the word. Raffles can be super effective too, especially if you can get some free prizes donated. You can also sell handmade crafts or host a potluck dinner where everyone brings a dish and chips in a little donation. These ideas don’t take a lot of money or organizing, which makes them perfect for smaller teams.

How can a small group get the word out about their fundraiser?

Spreading the word is key, so start by using social media. Make an event on Facebook or Instagram, post updates, and ask your friends to share them. Email is great too—send out invitations and reminders so no one forgets. And don’t overlook one of fundraising’s oldest tools: the flyer. Put them up in libraries, coffee shops, or community centers to catch people’s eye. The trick is using a few ways together so you reach as many people as possible.

Are there legal rules for small fundraisers?

It’s always smart to check the rules before you get started. Some cities require permits for outdoor events or activities like raffles and auctions. In fact, raffles can be considered a form of gambling in some areas, which means special regulations may apply. Fundraising can also have tax implications, especially if your group isn’t a registered nonprofit. To stay on the safe side, reach out to your local city hall or a tax advisor to make sure you’re following the right steps.

How can you keep donors interested and motivated?

Donors want to know their money makes a difference—so share stories that show why the fundraiser matters. Turning fundraising into a game or challenge can add some fun and get more people involved. Keep everyone updated with progress reports, and don’t forget to say thanks! Even a quick thank-you message on social media or, if possible, a handwritten note makes a big difference. When people feel appreciated, they’re much more likely to support you again.

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