How to Plan a Last-Minute Fundraiser

Sometimes the need to raise funds comes out of nowhere, an unexpected expense, a last-minute opportunity, or a sudden community need. While it may feel overwhelming, planning a fundraiser on short notice is possible. With the right strategy and tools, you can rally support and reach your goal fast.

Here’s how to make it happen, even if time isn’t on your side.

1. Set a clear goal and timeline

Start by getting specific about what you’re raising money for and how much you need. A defined goal builds trust and gives your supporters a reason to act quickly.

Ask yourself:

• What exactly do we need to fund?
• How much time do we realistically have?
• Can we break our total goal into smaller, manageable milestones?

Genius Tip: Add a sense of urgency by including a clear deadline: “Help us raise $1,000 by Friday!”

2. Pick a fundraising format that’s quick and easy

When you’re short on time, choose a format that doesn’t require a lot of planning or supplies. The faster it is to launch, the better.

Last-minute-friendly fundraising ideas:

• Online donation drive: No setup required beyond your donation page.
• Ticketed event: Host a simple community dinner or virtual game night.
• Mini auction: Gather a few quick prize donations and let people bid online.

With a platform like SignUpGenius, you can build a donation page or ticket sale in minutes and skip the hassle of coordinating through email or paper forms.

3. Create your donation page in minutes

The most important part? Make it easy for people to give.

With SignUpGenius Donations, you can:

• Set up a branded donation page
• Accept secure online payments via Stripe
• Add custom giving levels, images, and deadlines
• Track contributions in real time

No coding. No complicated forms. Just a simple way to collect donations fast, all in one place.

4. Spread the word — fast

Now it’s time to get the word out. You don’t need a full campaign, just a clear message and a few good channels.

Genius promotion tips:

• Email your contacts with a direct link to your donation page
• Post on social media using a strong call to action and deadline
• Text your top supporters and ask them to share
• Add your link to a community Facebook group or newsletter

Use urgency in your messaging:
“Only 48 hours left to help us reach our goal!”
“We’re halfway there, every gift counts!”

See How One School Band Raised Thousands with SignUpGenius

Don’t forget to thank your supporters along the way. A little gratitude goes a long way toward making people feel good about giving and coming back next time!

• Send a quick thank-you message after each donation
• Share a real-time update on your progress
• Shout out top donors or teams if appropriate

Once your fundraiser wraps up, post a final update to show how their gifts made an impact.

Make fundraising fast and simple with SignUpGenius Donations

Even with little time to plan, your fundraiser can make a big difference. The key is taking action quickly and using a tool that makes the process smooth from start to finish.

With SignUpGenius, you can launch a donation page, accept payments, and track results — all in one easy platform.

Ready to start raising funds fast?