If you run a non-profit agency, then fundraising is as much a part of your life as sleeping and eating. Hosting a concert is a great way to fundraise for your organization, but there are a few tips you will want to keep in mind to ensure your event attracts a good crowd and earns your organization enough cash.
1. Advertise early.
One of the worst things that could happen would be for your organization to spend money organizing a music festival, only for nobody to show up. So advertising should be one of the very first things you do once you decide you are going to host such an event. As soon as you have a date booked, pump out those ads. Advertise on social media, put ads in the paper, and put commercials on the radio. Many radio stations and newspapers will allow non-profits to advertise for free, so make sure you mention your status when booking the ads.
2. Book at least one big-name brand.
To keep costs down, you are probably looking at booking a lot of local bands who will perform for a small fee or who may even donate their time. However, in order to draw a bigger crowd, it's often worth booking at least one bigger name. If you emphasize that this festival is a fundraiser, some bigger-name brands may agree to perform for a fraction of their normal fee. Don't give up if the first few bands you approach are not interested; keep sending polite letters and emails until you find someone.
3. Ask for a donation at the door.
These days, there are so many free and low-cost music festivals that charging your attendees may turn some of them away. However, you can still request a donation at the door. Attendees who cannot afford the donation can still attend and may contribute by purchasing some merchandise or food. But many people will donate because they support the cause your non-profit works towards.
4. Offer activities other than music.
Yes, the music will be the main attraction, but attendees will be more excited and will even donate more money if you offer some side attractions. Consider offering face painting for $5, or charging $5 to throw balls to drop someone in a dunk tank. These little efforts can add up!
With the tips above, your music festival is sure to be a success. For more tips and ideas, talk with other non-profit groups that use music to raise funds, such as Music Aid Africa.
