Why Fundraisers Fail — and How to Make Yours a Success

The Real Reason Why Fundraisers Fail

In our years of helping schools and groups run successful fundraisers, we’ve noticed a consistent pattern as to why fundraisers fail, it always comes down to one thing — lack of participation.

We’ve seen 15 students raise $3,000 — which is impressive! But what if those 15 students represented only a tiny portion of a group of 500? Now imagine if even 30% of that group participated, selling just one item each. That would be an additional 120 items at $20 each — another $3,000 raised. You’ve just doubled your success with minimal effort.

And that’s just scratching the surface. Based on our data, the average participant sells five items. At that rate, that same fundraiser could jump to over $12,000. These aren’t just hypothetical numbers — they’re based on real-world results.

The Key to Success: Boosting Participation

Fundraising success is directly tied to participation. And participation comes down to how well the fundraiser is promoted and how excited people are to get involved.

The good news? You have more control over that than you might think.

Stick With What Works

We work with schools that have run the same fundraiser for years — and they continue to see great results. Sure, pie flavors change, or new brochure items get added, but the core of the fundraiser stays the same. Why? Because it works.

In recent years, we’ve noticed a trend: when a fundraiser underperforms, the response is often to try something completely new. New sounds exciting — it feels fresh and innovative. But too often, it’s a distraction from the real issue: participation.

While we offer a wide variety of fundraising options — from socks and cookie dough to chocolate bars and color runs — we’ve found that consistency outperforms novelty. Groups that change fundraisers year after year often struggle, while those that stick with a proven product and a strong promotional plan continue to thrive.

It’s not about changing the product — it’s about reminding people why it matters and making it easy to participate. If you are looking for something a little different let us help. We offer many of the same products you know and love, but we also include tools to help increase participation and help you reach your goals.  

Overcoming Common Fundraising Objections

To help you increase participation, here are a few common objections — and how to address them effectively:

1. “A few people complained, so we should change everything.”

Don’t let a loud minority dictate the direction of your fundraiser. A handful of complaints doesn’t represent your whole community. Happy supporters are often silent — but they still show up and buy. Focus on the majority, not the noisiest few.

2. “I can’t afford to buy, so I won’t participate.”

This is a big misconception. Participation doesn’t have to mean purchasing. Sharing your fundraiser with friends and family is just as important. In fact, some of our most successful fundraisers come from communities where participants simply shared the campaign — and others stepped up to support.

3. “The products are too expensive.”

Fundraising products often cost more than store-bought alternatives — and that’s okay. Supporters understand that the purchase is a way to help your school or group. The product is just a bonus. Plus, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality items that far exceed the value of what you’d find at big-box stores.

4. “The economy is bad — no one will buy.”

We hear this in every economy. But year after year, the data tells us something different: those who can help, will. If you reach enough people, you’ll find support. And during tough times, people are often more motivated to help causes they care about. Don’t let fear hold you back — the key is to keep promoting confidently and consistently.

Perception is Powerful

As a former economics professor, I’ve seen firsthand how success in any economy, business, or fundraiser comes down to perception. If you believe no one will support your fundraiser, that becomes your reality. But if you promote your campaign with energy and confidence, people respond.

Let go of assumptions. Share your fundraiser widely. Focus on the cause. The more people who know about your fundraiser, the better it will perform — no matter what the headlines say.

Let’s Make Your Next Fundraiser a Success

Whether you want to try something new or stick with a trusted favorite, we’re here to help. We offer a full range of products — pies, cookie dough, candles, chocolates, socks, and more — plus a proven success kit that includes everything you need to promote your campaign and increase participation.

With the right tools, the right mindset, and a little consistency, your next fundraiser can be your best one yet.