10 Creative Ideas for Passive Fundraising for Nonprofits

The Beginner’s Guide to Passive Fundraising for Nonprofits

If you run a nonprofit or work for one, you’d agree that your organization is always in need of steady funding to keep its mission alive.

Sure, large events, seasonal campaigns, and grant cycles create funding spikes, but what happens in between truly makes or breaks your momentum. Relying solely only on high-effort campaigns limits your team’s capacity and leaves gaps in your budget throughout the year.

Thankfully, you don’t have to plan more events or stretch your team thin. You can tap into passive fundraising methods that fit naturally into your supporters’ daily lives.

In this guide, you’ll learn how passive fundraising works, why it benefits your nonprofit, and which ideas can help you get started. By the end, you’ll have a clear plan for building a steady stream of passive income.

Let’s get started!

What is Passive Fundraising?

Passive fundraising happens when your supporters help you raise money while going about their regular routines. They don’t write large checks or attend fancy events. Instead, they shop, dine, or browse the internet — and a small portion of their everyday spending goes toward your cause. These donations usually come in small amounts, but over time, they build up and create steady revenue.

On the surface, it may sound too good to be true. But passive fundraising works because it fits into habits people already have. They don’t need to go out of their way or spend more than they planned. When they use a linked credit card, install a browser extension, or choose your group on a rewards app, your nonprofit receives support with no extra steps.

From your side also, passive fundraising doesn’t require the same kind of lift as a traditional campaign. You only need to set up the system once, whether you use a platform, a retailer, or an app. From there, it operates quietly behind the scenes. That’s what makes it “passive”. It keeps working even when you're not updating it daily or posting new content weekly.

Of course, these campaigns aren’t completely hands-off. If you want good results, you need to promote the program, answer questions, and follow up with updates and appreciation. You will have to send emails stressing the impact of everyday actions like grocery shopping or ordering online. Post reminders telling people that every time they round up at checkout or click through a donation-enabled link, they're helping move your mission forward.

Letting your community know that things they already do, like ordering food, filling prescriptions, or buying birthday gifts, can generate real support. And the best part is that you don’t need a big team or a lot of time to manage all that. You just have to be consistent and keep the conversation going, that’s all!

Why Should Your Nonprofit Try Passive Fundraising?

Passive fundraising helps your nonprofit get monetary support with less effort, but its benefits go beyond convenience. It gives your organization more control, greater flexibility, and stronger community ties. And when done well, it becomes a steady source of support that fits easily into your broader fundraising strategy.

The biggest reason to consider passive fundraising is revenue diversification. When all your funding comes from one or two sources, your programs become vulnerable. If a high-ticket donor changes direction or a grant falls through, your budget can take a serious hit. Passive fundraising gives you another stream of income. Amounts collected from everyday actions, however small, gradually increase your totals and strengthen your overall funding base.

Another advantage is the freedom to use these funds where they are most needed. Most passive fundraising options do not place restrictions on how the money must be spent. That means you can cover core costs, fill shortfalls, or strengthen your reserves without jumping through extra hoops. Many funders limit how their contributions are used. Passive income doesn’t do that. It supports your whole organization, not just one part of it.

Timing also works in your favor. When you launch a passive fundraiser, you don’t need to pause it between campaigns or during slower seasons. Compared to other fundraising activities that usually have a timeline, passive streams keep moving along. That way, they help you stay financially active even when your campaign calendar feels quiet.

Partnerships play an important role too. Many passive fundraising programs involve businesses or service providers. These partnerships result in more visibility, funding, and the chance to grow into something more. You might open the door to future sponsorships, in-kind support, or community events. Businesses benefit from these connections as well, since supporting your nonprofit strengthens their reputation.

There’s also an awareness boost. When your nonprofit joins a passive fundraiser, your name reaches new audiences. A customer may see your organization listed as a cause at checkout. An employee might learn about you through a workplace giving platform. These small touches introduce people to your nonprofit and can lead to deeper involvement over time.

Above all, your supporters would appreciate the convenience. They don’t need to carve out time or spend extra money to help your cause. They simply make everyday choices that now carry purpose.

In short, passive fundraising builds natural connections among those who care: donors, partners, and your team. It improves your standing in the community, helps you plan ahead with confidence, and makes ongoing support easier to maintain. Over time, these efforts add up to meaningful change.

How Can You Market Your Nonprofit’s Passive Fundraiser?

After the launch of your passive fundraiser, the real work shifts to getting people involved. Supporters need clear instructions. They also need reminders.

Sometimes, even the most loyal donors want the process to feel effortless and aligned with their day-to-day life. Their enthusiasm for your cause increases when the act of donation mirrors things they already do.

Marketing helps close that gap. A strong campaign raises awareness, builds trust, and keeps people engaged over time.

To start strong, focus on a wide, multi-channel approach. Different people respond to different messages and platforms. When you show up in multiple places, you create more chances for someone to take action.

Here’s how to get the word out effectively.

1. Your Website

Make your website the central hub for all your passive fundraisers.

• Create a dedicated page for each program.

• Include instructions, deadlines, and links to any third-party platforms.

• Add images or short testimonials from participants.

• Keep the content simple and clear.

Supporters should never have to dig around for key information. Keep it front and center on your home page, especially right after launch.

2. Email Marketing

Email continues to be one of the most direct ways to reach your audience.

• Announce the fundraiser in a standalone email.

• Mention it in your monthly or quarterly newsletter.

• Share short updates about progress or success stories.

• Add a call-to-action at the bottom of relevant emails.

Don’t forget to follow up. A gentle nudge after a few weeks can move someone from “maybe” to “yes.”

3. Social Media

Social platforms help you reach both current supporters and new audiences.

• Share regular updates on your Facebook page.

• Post clear, graphic-based instructions on Instagram.

• Create short, engaging reels or videos that explain the process.

• Use your stories to remind followers to participate.

Keep your visuals consistent. Stick with your nonprofit’s logo, colors, and tone. That familiarity builds trust and recognition.

4. Search and Display Ads

Google’s Ad Grant program gives eligible nonprofits up to $10,000 per month in free advertising credit.

• Apply for the grant and set up search ads that lead to your passive fundraiser pages.

• Use keywords that match supporter intent, such as “support [your cause] easily” or “shop for a cause”.

• Test different headlines to see what gets more clicks.

You don’t need to spend a lot of time on ad copy. Focus on clarity and direct action.

5. Print Materials

Flyers still work, particularly in community spaces.

• Post flyers at your nonprofit’s facility.

• Ask local businesses or passive fundraising partners to display them.

• Hand them out at events or mail them to longtime supporters.

• Use bold fonts, a clean layout, and strong calls to action.

A physical reminder sticks with people in a way a digital one sometimes doesn’t.

Useful Note

In every channel you use, stay consistent. Your visuals, tone, and instructions should feel unified. That kind of cohesion makes your fundraiser feel legitimate and easy to follow.

Also, talk to your partners. Some passive fundraising platforms and businesses provide marketing support. They might offer co-branded materials, social media templates, or space in their own newsletters. Take advantage of any tool they suggest to increase your reach.

At the end of the day, passive fundraising won’t work unless people know how to take part. Your job is to show them that it’s simple, meaningful, and worth doing. Use every resource at your disposal. Then, keep the message moving, one platform at a time.

10 Creative Ideas for Passive Fundraising for Nonprofits

To reiterate, passive fundraising helps your nonprofit grow funds through small, everyday choices. It removes the pressure of planning large-scale fundraisers or requesting donations repeatedly. In fact, after the initial work is done, these methods stay in motion and grow donations gradually.

Below we've compiled a list of 10 creative ideas your organization can begin putting into practice immediately to further your mission.

1. Sell Gift Cards That Give Back

Supporters can purchase gift cards for everyday shopping or special occasions. A percentage of each sale is donated to your organization. There are no extra charges for the shopper, just a different way to buy what they already need.

Use a platform like RaiseRight to make setup easier. Choose popular brands, and promote this option through your newsletter, website, and events. It works well during the holidays, school breaks, or when people are planning celebrations.

2. Set Up an Online Donation Page

An online donation page keeps charitable giving open at all times. It allows anyone to contribute on their own time. The key is to keep the process short, clear, and mobile-friendly.

Place the link in your email signature, social media bios, and flyers. Add a QR code to printed materials. Make sure the form includes a message that shows why each gift matters, no matter the size.

3. Launch a Monthly Giving Program

Recurring donations offer long-term support. Instead of one-time gifts, monthly giving builds a stable stream of funding. Donors sign up once and continue to fund your mission every month.

Give your program a name and show what each level of giving can help cover. For example, $20 per month can fund books or supplies for a classroom. Make it easy to join and adjust, and always send updates that show how their gifts help.

4. Partner with Restaurants

Work with restaurants that host fundraising nights. On the day of the event, a portion of each bill supports your nonprofit. Many local and national restaurants run these programs.

Pick a place your community already enjoys. Announce the event in advance and encourage supporters to bring friends. Restaurants often allow repeat events, so you can create a regular schedule with different locations.

5. Join an Affiliate Program

An affiliate program allows your nonprofit to earn when someone makes a purchase through your unique link. Supporters shop as they normally would, and your organization receives a small percentage of each sale.

You can partner with companies that align with your mission or audience. Share the links through blog posts, product reviews, or social media. Be sure to let supporters know that their purchase helps your cause at no extra cost.

6. Use Corporate Matching Gifts

Some employers match the donations their staff make to charities. This can double or even triple the value of a single gift. Many donors are unaware that their companies offer this benefit.

Add a reminder to your donation page and thank-you emails. Include a search tool so supporters can check their eligibility. You can also encourage donors to ask their HR departments about matching policies.

7. Open an Online Merch Store

Creating nonprofit merchandise gives your supporters something tangible to connect with. Whether it’s a hoodie or a reusable bottle, each item becomes part of someone’s routine and a quiet reminder of the work your nonprofit is doing. They also get others asking questions when they see the logo or message.

Use a print-on-demand service so you don’t need to hold inventory. Add your store to your website and feature items in your email campaigns. Tie releases to events or seasonal themes to create more interest.

8. Offer a Subscription Product

Work with a small business to offer a product or service people can subscribe to. Part of the sale is donated to your nonprofit. This could be a box of coffee, a candle set, or even a newsletter full of resources.

Pick something your audience already enjoys. Promote it in a way that shows the impact each purchase makes. People will enjoy the item or service, and your organization gains a stream of support.

9. Create a Giving Board

A digital giving board lets people fund specific needs. Instead of general donations, supporters choose an item to “cover.” These items could be supplies, meals, tickets, or tools your team needs to keep things running.

Design your board on your website or through your donation platform. Use real photos when possible. A visual board helps people see what their money can do, and it often inspires more giving.

10. Run a Round-Up Campaign

A round-up program allows shoppers to round up their purchases to the nearest dollar. The extra cents go to your nonprofit. When a lot of people join in, those small amounts accumulate quickly.

You can set this up with a retail partner or through a payment platform that offers this feature. Encourage the business to display a short explanation at the checkout counter. This works best when the option is easy to understand and quick to use.

How to Get Started with These Passive Fundraising Ideas

Follow these steps to set up a passive fundraising system that runs on its own seamlessly and brings in consistent support.

1. Clarify Your Financial Goals

Start by mapping out what you want to achieve. Decide how much you aim to raise in the next quarter or year. Break that target into smaller monthly goals. This helps you stay realistic and gives you benchmarks to share with your team and community.

• Be specific. Don’t write “raise more money ”. Rephrase it to something like “raise $2,000 by December through passive fundraisers.”

• Use visuals. A simple progress bar on your website or donation page keeps everyone motivated.

Set your goals first, so you know what success looks like when you start measuring it.

2. Pick the Right Fundraising Ideas

You don’t need to try everything at once. Choose one or two passive fundraisers that fit your audience and capacity. Look at your supporters’ habits. Do they shop online often? Are they part of a corporate environment with access to matching gift programs?

• Online donation pages and shopping reward programs work well for broad, digital-savvy audiences.

• Community-based groups may respond better to branded merchandise or local restaurant partnerships.

Start small, test what works, and scale from there.

3. Use Online Fundraising Applications

The right platform makes a huge difference. Use online donation management software to save time and avoid tracking everything manually. Tools like Donately, Fundly, or GoFundMe help you collect donations, automate communication, and stay organized.

• Set up recurring donation options.

• Track contributions and donor data in one place.

• Customize your donation page to reflect your nonprofit’s mission and tone.

Let your tech do the heavy lifting so you can focus on strategy and supporter relationships.

4. Create Clear Donation Pathways

Make it as easy as possible for people to contribute. Every fundraiser should come with a clear link, a simple action, and a brief explanation of how it helps. For example:

• Include direct links in your emails and social posts.

• Add QR codes to flyers or event handouts.

• Explain how their action — like using a specific app or making a purchase — has brought about a visible and measurable change in the lives of individuals and communities around them.

When the process feels natural and familiar, more people take action.

5. Promote Across Channels

Don’t wait for people to find your fundraiser; put it in front of them. Spread the word using your strongest outreach tools: email, social media, and your website.

• Post reminders regularly, not just once.

• Emphasize ease of participation. Say things like “It takes less than a minute” or “No extra cost to you.”

• Encourage your community to share links with friends and family.

Create a regular posting schedule. Make sure your brand tone of voice is friendly and action-driven.

6. Track Progress and Adjust

Check your numbers regularly. Look at clicks, donations, and participation rates. Use your donation platform’s analytics to understand what’s working and what’s not.

• Celebrate milestones publicly to maintain momentum.

• If one fundraiser stalls, pivot quickly. Try a new platform or test a different idea.

• Ask your supporters for feedback. They may suggest better ways to engage.

Passive fundraisers give you flexibility. Use it to your advantage.

7. Thank and Re-engage Donors

Every small contribution counts, and every donor matters. Send out thank-you messages. Show the impact their support creates. Use automated thank-you emails through your online fundraising platform, and follow up with periodic updates.

• A simple “Look what you helped us achieve!” goes a long way.

• Mention their contribution when you invite them to the next fundraiser.

Build a loop of generosity. Acknowledge, appreciate, and ask again when the time is right.

Final Thoughts

Passive fundraising gives your organization new ways to raise funds throughout the year, including periods when major campaigns are on pause.

Plus, you don’t need a full-fledged campaign to create predictable funding for your nonprofit.

Before moving forward, take a close look at your goals and your supporters’ preferences. You want to choose fundraisers that feel natural for them and manageable for your team.

A few smart choices can add steady income to your existing plan. Pick one or two passive fundraising ideas for nonprofits that seem easy to manage and match your audience’s habits and interests. Test them, share them with your community, and track how they perform. As the time passes, you can build a group of steady income sources that keep your nonprofit cashflow positive.

Also, make participation easy, whether donors shop online, use a rewards app, or contribute through workplace giving.

Use online donation management tools like Donately, Fundly, or GoFundMe to streamline the fundraising process. These platforms help you track contributions, automate communication, and reduce the time your team spends on manual tasks. That frees you up to concentrate more on growing your community.

Hurry, get started today. Happy fundraising!