Step By Step Fundraising Newsletter

June 2007

In this issue -

- Introduction to Online Fundraising

- Online Auctions with cMarket

- Other Online Fundraising Options

Online Fundraising 1-2-3

Just as the internet is now mainstream, the idea of online fundraising is now becoming commonplace as well. While there are some innovative ways to raise funds online, don't let the technology scare you off.

The basics such as building relationships with donors, marketing, and publicity all still apply. As I describe in The 5 Keys to Successful Fundraising, most fundraisers fall into one of three categories. Online fundraising is no different.

1. Donation request - There are a variety of online systems such as First Giving that will allow you to accept donations online.
2. Fundraising Events - Attendees to your special event meet "virtually" in an environment such as an online auction. (See the article on cMarket below)
3. Sales of products or services - People are shopping online anyway! Let a portion of the sale go to your organization. Sites like iGive and online magazine sales make this possible.

So remember, even though there are some great uses of the internet for raising funds it's still just a tool. And some tools are better than others. Evaluate each online fundraising option to make sure that in provides a solid return on investment of time and money and serves the best interests of your group.

When you add online fundraising people will have another way of supporting your cause. You can also reach people who would not participate in a traditional venue.

Online Auctions with cMarket

Has your organization considered taking its fundraising auction online? Sure there is eBay, and anyone, including non profits can use it to raise money. But the leading place for charity auctions is cMarket.

I first learned about cMarket about a year or so ago and finally got to meet them at the Association of Fundraising Professionals conference in March. Jong Soo Hallet (at left) has always been great about answering my questions about the cMarket system. Several of the other team members were also there, and they were also very friendly and helpful.

cMarket really does place the customer in first place. They offer online training, free teleseminars and a help desk in case you need it.

They are always improving their services so that groups can be even more successful with online auctions. Two of cMarket's services that compliment the auction software can dramatically increase your fundraising results.

cMarket Place gives you access to consignment items to add to your auction at no upfront cost. There are high ticket and specialty items that can get some big bids from auction "attendees."

Bidding for Good is a way that your auction can reach a greater audience. People who may have never heard of your organization can search, view and bid for your auction items. (Just like on eBay!)

Find out More about cMarket

During a recent interview I gave an introduction to cMarket and some of its benefits. Now you can listen to this 8 minute audio clip for free

You can also visit the cMarket site, and watch a demo video.

Or just fill out a request form to get more information about cMarket's services.

More Online Fundraising Options

Online Magazine Sales - Online magazine fundraising is an easy way to raise money for a non profit organization. The magazine company processes all the orders, making the online program one of the easiest way to raise funds available. Read our Review

More Links to Online Fundraising Options

Articles about Online Fundraising

As always, if you have any questions, comments or suggestions on how we can better serve your fundraising needs just let us know.

To Your Continued Fundraising Success,

Sandra Sims Editor & Publisher Step By Step Fundraising Newsletter Archive Newsletter Sign-up & Free e-Book