10 creative fundraising ideas for church events and ministries

Whether you’re funding a building project, supporting your church youth group, or fueling outreach efforts, the right fundraising ideas can spark generosity among your congregation members. And if you can make fundraising feel like a natural extension of your ministry, it’s amazing how generously people respond.

If you’re looking for creative fundraising ideas for church events and ministries, you’re in the right place. Here are 10 ideas to inspire your next church fundraising effort.

1. Host a yard sale fundraiser in the church parking lot

A good old-fashioned yard sale is still one of the most effective fundraising events you can organize.

Ask church members and community members to donate gently used items they no longer need. Then, set up a big sale in your church parking lot. You’ll not only raise money, but also create a space for neighbors to connect with your congregation and staff. Put out some refreshments and give your community a spot to hang out a little bit while they’re browsing.

Don’t forget to promote your yard sale in your church services, bulletin, and social media pages.

2. Launch a silent auction after a Sunday church service

Silent auctions are a fantastic church fundraising idea that let people give generously without feeling pressured.

Gather donated items, gift baskets, or services from local businesses and congregation members. Set up bidding tables during a weekend church event or fellowship hour.

It’s a great way to engage potential donors while making fundraising feel more personal and interactive.

3. Start a brick fundraiser for your church building project

If your church is looking to raise funds for a new building, a renovation, or beautifying your church grounds, a brick fundraiser could be the perfect fit.

Offer congregation members the opportunity to purchase engraved bricks that will become a lasting part of the church grounds. It’s meaningful, it’s tangible, it directly supports the church’s mission, and it’s a lot of fun for those that call your church home.

4. Organize a candy fundraiser with your church youth group

A candy fundraiser is a sweet and simple way to get everyone involved, especially your church youth group.

Partner with a company like ABC Fundraising to offer a wide range of candy options. Youth group members can sell the treats after services or during a special church fundraising event.

It’s a low-cost, high-reward idea that lets younger members actively participate in your fundraising efforts.

5. Launch an online fundraising campaign with easy online giving

Today’s churches have more ways to fundraise than ever before. Setting up an online fundraising campaign makes giving easy and accessible for every member of your congregation.

Link your campaign to your online giving platform so people can donate anytime, anywhere.

Promote the fundraiser through email, social media, and announcements during church services to maximize reach and encourage online donations.

6. Design a t-shirt fundraiser celebrating your church’s mission

A t-shirt fundraiser does more than raise money. It’s a great way to give your congregation an easy way to represent your church to the community.

Create custom shirts that highlight a verse, a mission statement, special event, or simply have a cool design with your church logo on it. Then sell them to church members and community members. Proceeds can support a building project, mission trip, or church ministry.

Just make sure you’re clear on where the proceeds are going. It’s important that the congregation has a lot of transparency when purchasing from the church!

7. Plan a church fundraiser dinner or themed meal night

Few things bring people together faster than a good meal.

Organize a fundraising event where the church gathers for a spaghetti dinner, chili cook-off, or international food night. Sell tickets or ask for donations at the door.

It’s a simple way to invite both church members and guests into deeper community.

8. Create a “favorite church fundraising idea” contest

Sometimes the best fundraising ideas are sitting right inside your own congregation.

Host a contest on social media where church leaders and members submit their favorite fundraising ideas. Then have the congregation vote on their favorite.

The winning idea could become your next major fundraising campaign—and your church community will feel even more connected to the mission.

9. Organize a talent show fundraiser

Let your congregation’s gifts shine with a church talent show.

Invite church members and community members to sing, dance, perform skits, or show off other talents. Charge a small entry fee and encourage donations during intermission.

Talent shows are fun, family-friendly, and a perfect reminder that everyone has something valuable to offer.

The only hiccup here is to make sure you have some sort of screening process in place so that you know exactly what is going to be performed during the talent show.

10. Partner with a local Christian school for a joint fundraiser

If your church has a relationship with a nearby Christian school, teaming up for a fundraising event can bless both ministries.

Ideas like a pancake breakfast, walkathon, or yard sale can rally families, teachers, and congregation members alike. It’s a natural way to expand your network of supporters and grow your potential donor base.

Building community through fundraising

When done with care, fundraising can be one of the most life-giving parts of church life.

Whether you choose a silent auction, a t-shirt fundraiser, or a full online fundraising campaign, what matters most is creating moments of connection—moments that point people back to the heart of your church.

FAQs about fundraising ideas for church

What are some creative fundraising ideas for church youth groups?
Church youth groups can organize a candy fundraiser, host a car wash, sell custom t-shirts, or plan a fun run to support missions and events.

How can online fundraising help churches grow their ministries?
Online fundraising makes giving easier for congregation members and potential donors, allowing churches to reach more people and support ministry efforts beyond Sunday mornings.

What is the best church fundraiser idea for a building project?
Brick fundraisers, capital campaign dinners, and silent auctions are all strong choices for raising funds for church building projects.

How do you organize a successful church fundraising event?
Start by setting a clear fundraising goal, choosing an event that fits your church community, promoting it through multiple channels, and making it fun and meaningful for everyone involved.

Can a small congregation run a big fundraising campaign?
Absolutely. With creative fundraising ideas, online giving tools, and strong community support, even a small congregation can accomplish big things through fundraising.

DISCLAIMER: this content has been generated, at least in part, by artificial intelligence.