What are the best ways to diversify fundraising for environmental causes?

1 Sell products or services

One way to diversify your fundraising is to sell products or services that are related to your cause, or that appeal to your target audience. For example, you could sell eco-friendly merchandise, such as reusable bags, water bottles, or clothing, that showcase your brand and message. You could also offer services, such as consulting, training, or workshops, that showcase your expertise and add value to your clients. Selling products or services can help you create a steady stream of income, as well as raise awareness and engagement for your cause.

2 Launch a membership program

Another way to diversify your fundraising is to launch a membership program that offers benefits and perks to your supporters in exchange for a recurring fee. For example, you could offer members access to exclusive content, events, discounts, or networking opportunities, depending on what they value and what you can provide. A membership program can help you build a loyal and committed community of supporters, as well as generate predictable and sustainable revenue for your cause.

3 Partner with businesses

A third way to diversify your fundraising is to partner with businesses that share your values and vision, and that can support your cause in various ways. For example, you could seek corporate sponsorships, where businesses provide financial or in-kind support for your projects, events, or campaigns, in return for recognition and exposure. You could also seek cause-related marketing, where businesses donate a percentage of their sales or profits to your cause, in return for promotion and alignment. Partnering with businesses can help you leverage their resources, networks, and influence, as well as increase your credibility and reach.

4 Apply for awards or competitions

A fourth way to diversify your fundraising is to apply for awards or competitions that recognize and reward innovative and impactful environmental initiatives. For example, you could look for local, national, or international awards or competitions that match your cause, goals, and achievements, and that offer cash prizes, grants, or other forms of support. Applying for awards or competitions can help you showcase your work, gain recognition and visibility, and attract new donors and partners.

5 Use online platforms

A fifth way to diversify your fundraising is to use online platforms that enable you to reach and engage a wider and more diverse audience. For example, you could use crowdfunding platforms, such as Kickstarter, Indiegogo, or GoFundMe, to raise funds for specific projects or campaigns, and to offer rewards or incentives to your backers. You could also use social media platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, to share your stories, updates, and appeals, and to encourage your followers to donate, share, or take action. Using online platforms can help you increase your exposure, accessibility, and convenience, as well as tap into new and existing networks.

6 Seek individual donations

A sixth way to diversify your fundraising is to seek individual donations from people who care about your cause and want to support it. For example, you could ask your supporters to make one-time or recurring donations, either online or offline, and to choose the amount and frequency that suits them. You could also ask your supporters to become fundraisers themselves, and to solicit donations from their friends, family, or colleagues, on your behalf. Seeking individual donations can help you build a strong and diverse donor base, as well as foster a sense of ownership and involvement among your supporters.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?