fundraising cards
Community-based fundraisers are an incredible way to bring people together, raise funds for a great cause, and build stronger local networks. One of the most effective tools in this space is the fundraising card, a discount or value-added card featuring deals from local businesses. It’s a win-win: supporters get value, businesses gain visibility, and your organization raises money.
Still, the big question is always the same: how do you get businesses involved? It’s not as tricky as it might seem, but there’s a method to getting local companies on board. Business owners are constantly approached with sponsorship requests, so knowing how to stand out matters. The secret lies in offering a compelling reason for them to say “yes,” showing that this opportunity benefits them too.
From researching the right businesses to crafting a great pitch, building the right partnerships makes all the difference in the success of your fundraising campaigns. The process involves preparation, communication, and a little bit of hustle, but once you master the rhythm, you’ll find doors opening and deals flowing.
Understanding the Appeal to Businesses
What’s in It for Them?
Before reaching out, understand what motivates a business to participate. You’re not just asking for donations; you’re offering exposure. Participating businesses get:
- Free Advertising: Their name and offer go out to every cardholder.
- Local Traffic: People often try new places because of a discount.
- Community Goodwill: Associating with a cause builds reputation and trust.
These benefits form the core of your pitch and should be included in every interaction.
Step 1: Build Your Prospect List
Start with Local Favorites
Begin by listing businesses your community already knows and trusts. Restaurants, coffee shops, salons, gyms, and boutiques are usually popular. These businesses benefit the most from walk-in traffic and are often willing to support local efforts.
Think Strategically
Target businesses that align with your audience. If your fundraiser supports a high school sports team, for example, seek out:
- Sporting goods stores
- Fast-casual dining spots
- Tutoring centers
- Local car washes
Your ideal partners are those who gain something meaningful by appealing to your crowd.
Step 2: Make The Initial Contact Count
Prepare Your Pitch
Craft a short, confident message explaining:
- Who you are
- The cause you’re supporting
- How will their business benefit
- What kind of offer are you looking for
A few examples of suitable offers for fundraising cards include:
- 20% off one purchase
- Buy-one-get-one-free deals
- Free item with purchase
Keep it simple and appealing. Avoid complicated deals that confuse customers or require fine print.
Walk In or Call?
In-person visits often yield better results, especially with smaller, locally owned businesses. Come during off-peak hours (never lunch rush or weekends) and bring a one-page info sheet. Be friendly but brief. If visiting isn’t possible, call and ask for the manager or marketing contact.
Step 3: Make It Easy to Say Yes
Provide Clear Details
Make participation hassle-free. Businesses should know:
- No payment is required
- They chose the discount
- You’ll handle design and printing
- Their logo will appear on the card
Set a clear deadline for participation and follow up once if you don’t hear back.
Offer Sample Visibility
If you’ve done a fundraiser discount card before, show examples of past cards or share how many people supported previous campaigns. This gives the business confidence in the return on their effort.
Step 4: Focus on the Offer, Not the Ask
Create a Value-Driven Deal
The offer is everything. Businesses want deals that drive sales without hurting profit margins. Steer them toward offers that encourage trial but also bring repeat customers.
Here are some ideas that tend to perform well:
| Business Type | Recommended Offer |
| Coffee Shops | Free small drink with any purchase |
| Restaurants | 15% off the entire meal |
| Car Washes | $2 off full-service wash |
| Gyms | One free class or a 3-day pass |
| Boutiques | $10 off $50 purchase |
Avoid pushing for deep discounts that eat into profit. Instead, focus on added value.
Step 5: Track and Celebrate Participation
Acknowledge Every Business
Once businesses commit, promote them early and often. Tag them in social media posts, include their names in email updates, and thank them publicly during events. This helps fulfill the value you promised and may attract more businesses to join future campaigns.
Share the Outcome
After the fundraiser ends, report back. Send participating businesses a thank-you note and include results such as:
- How many cards were sold
- How much was raised
- Positive feedback from the community
This closes the loop and strengthens relationships for next time.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Overloading the Card
It might be tempting to pack your card with 50+ offers, but that can be overwhelming. Stick to 20-30 high-quality offers that are easy to use.
Reaching Out Too Late
Businesses need time to plan. Start outreach at least 6–8 weeks before your fundraiser cards go to print.
Poor Offer Design
Avoid vague or restrictive deals. Make sure offers are specific, valuable, and easy for customers to redeem.
Scaling Beyond the Local Level
Expand with Chains and Franchises
Don’t limit yourself to mom-and-pop shops. Some franchises allow local managers to approve community deals. Think pizza chains, fitness centers, or haircut franchises.
Just be sure to:
- Ask if they need corporate approval
- Provide a simple written request that they can forward internally
Build Repeat Partnerships
Once you’ve done a successful round, return to those same businesses for future campaigns. Businesses that saw customer traffic or received good feedback are likely to come back, especially if you make participation simple.
Takeaway
Finding businesses to join your fundraiser discount cards is less about asking for favors and more about offering a win-win opportunity. When you position your card as a tool for local exposure and customer connection, businesses are far more likely to participate.
Start with trusted local spots, make your pitch personal, highlight the mutual value, and always follow up with appreciation. As your reputation grows, so will your list of supportive partners and your fundraising success.
DuraCard makes it easy to create professional, high-quality fundraising cards that stand out. Our durable plastic cards offer a sleek, credit-card feel that businesses love to feature on. With custom printing, fast turnaround, and outstanding customer support, DuraCard is a trusted partner for schools, sports teams, nonprofits, and community groups nationwide.
