Because great fundraising starts in your community.
Community fundraising is where generosity meets connection.
It’s the bake sale that builds a hospice, the fun run that funds research, and the local hero who gives up their weekend to make a difference.
And in 2025, it’s bigger, bolder, and more creative than ever.
In this guide, we’ll unpack how to grow, nurture, and future-proof your community fundraising, from new digital tools to supporter experience.
🎟️ Want to go deeper? Check out Community Fundraising Conference 2025 – a full day of ideas and inspiration for the sector’s most passionate fundraisers.
What Is Community Fundraising (and Why It Still Matters)
Community fundraising is the beating heart of every charity, it’s where your mission meets real people, face-to-face or online.
But times have changed. Supporters are busier, digital channels have exploded, and the old “bucket-collection” model just doesn’t cut it anymore.
The good news? There’s a huge opportunity right now for charities that build authentic, local-first relationships.
Community fundraising today means combining tradition with tech. Connecting people to purpose through creativity, collaboration, and care.
The Power of Community Fundraising
When people fundraise for you, they’re not just raising money, they’re raising your profile, your story, and your reach.
Whether it’s a 5K, coffee morning, or online challenge, community fundraising builds trust and belonging like nothing else.
đź’ˇ Think local, act global: Community events can spark national attention when stories are shared the right way.
And if you want proof that community fundraising is alive and thriving, watch the insights shared during our latest Community Fundraising Conference 2025.
Innovative Tactics to Grow Your Income
You don’t need a huge budget to grow…you just need smarter tools.
Go contactless:
Cash donations are fading fast, but community generosity isn’t. Learn how to boost community fundraising with contactless donations.
Bring AI into your events:
Yes, really. From automating supporter follow-ups to creating smarter event insights, AI is already helping charities work faster and fundraise better. Check out Using AI as a Positive Tool for Growth in Events.
Meet your fundraisers where they are:
Community fundraising is moving onto WhatsApp, TikTok, and short-form video. These spaces are personal, playful, and powerful.
Empowering Supporters & Volunteers
Behind every great fundraiser is a team that feels part of something bigger.
Building strong community management skills will keep your volunteers motivated, confident, and ready to spread your message.
🎯 Learn how to build those relationships in Developing Great Community Management Skills.
And remember…the best community fundraisers are storytellers.
When supporters share their “why”, your cause travels further than any ad ever could.
Turning Events Into Long-Term Relationships
A good event raises money.
A great event raises loyalty.
Once the banners come down, how do you keep fundraisers engaged?
By continuing the conversation. Thank them properly, show them impact, and invite them to be part of your next chapter.
Want practical tools to reduce attrition and improve stewardship?
You’ll love our on-demand session, Keeping Donors for the Long Haul.
Learn From the Experts
Every year, we bring together the brightest minds in the sector to share what’s really working (and what’s not).
The Community Fundraising Conference 2025 is your chance to learn from those on the ground, the fundraisers creating impact through people, passion, and participation.
Catch up with the sessions on-demand or join us live next year to level-up your strategy, your confidence, and your community.
Ready to Grow Your Community Fundraising?
Your community is your superpower.
Whether you’re running local events, supporting peer-to-peer fundraisers, or planning your next big campaign, the future of fundraising is together.
✨ Explore more, get inspired, and join the movement at the Community Fundraising Conference 2025.