The 15 Minute Fundraising Gala

When you’re looking for quick fundraising ideas, a gala may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But with Qtego’s fundraising platform, it’s quick and easy to add engaging content that captures donor interest and helps you raise more money for your cause. We’ll show you how to use your existing resources to put together a quick and easy, pre-recorded video that you run as a “15 Minute Gala” on your crowdfunding page. Here’s how to do it:

1. Pick Your Campaign Time, Topic, and Target

Many organizations run crowdfunding campaigns around Giving Tuesday, but you can offer one any time! The key to successful crowdfunding is visibility, so make sure that whatever date you choose, you do a lot to get the word out. Pitching your campaign around an unusual idea like a 15 Minute Gala is bound to generate interest!

Then, choose a primary idea to drive your campaign. Raise money and awareness for a particular need or aspect of your work, choosing a compelling reason for your donors and supporters to get involved and share the campaign with their friends and networks.

As with any fundraising campaign, you’ll also need a target goal. Think about your previous campaigns, analyze your donor base, and consider how a particular need would appeal to a wider audience.

2. Use Quick Fundraising Ideas to Pull Things Together Fast

Call Qtego to get your crowdfunding page up fast with your own branded colors and logo.
Instead of a donation counter for the entire campaign, consider one that’s just for the 15 Minute Gala. The time limit builds urgency and motivates giving.
Add a video to the page. You’ll pre-record the video, and let supporters know when to watch (we suggest lunch time if it’s a workday). Viewers can donate on the crowdfunding page as they watch the Gala and excitement builds!

3. Use Existing Video for Your 15 Minute Gala Plan

As you plan out your 15 minutes, you’ll save time and hassle if you think about the video footage you already have in your archive. Most organizations have short video clips about the mission, impact, and need. Mix those with a high-energy host and you’re most of the way there! Here are a few quick fundraising ideas for your 15 Minute Gala:

Intro | Start the clock timing the gala right there on the screen.
Video clip about the need | It’s fine to use one you already have!
Instructions on how to give | This directs viewers to the other features of the crowdfunding page where the video is embedded.
Short entertainment | Think about options like a band playing one song, a special act, a comedian…Try to use a clip from a virtual fundraising event you’ve done in the past!
Mid-show check-in | Show your donation tracker, thank sponsors, and don’t forget major donors! You may want to have a few larger gifts ready to add to the counter in the middle of the 15 minutes to boost excitement.
Reminder of the need | Highlight the organization’s overall mission and how critical donor support is to the cause. You may already have a video about this, too!
Final countdown | Do the usual timer rundown banter, just like you do when a live audience is with you!

4. Take a Less-Is-More Approach to the Video

One of our best quick fundraising ideas for video is to take a minimalist approach. Save the time-consuming bells and whistles for major events. You’ll be surprised how much impact a quick event like adding a 15 Minute Gala video to a crowdfunding campaign can be. To keep your stress level and time commitment low, here are some hints for efficient, streamlined filming:

Use the equipment you have! Your phone is perfect.
Do a few run-throughs. To stick to a 15-minute target, you need to keep things moving!
Keep visuals bright and energy high. Instead of going all out for decorations, focus in on a high-energy host and dress him or her up!

5. Get the Word Out

People love the novelty of a 15 Minute Gala! Be sure they hear about it by letting them know the details.

Send an email to let your list know what to expect and how to share the crowdfunding page with their social networks.
Run frequent social media posts leading up to the 15 Minute Gala, especially on the day of the event!

When it comes to quick fundraising ideas, a 15 Minute Gala is a fun option that delivers a great return for the effort. At Qtego, we love coming up with unique ideas to help nonprofits raise more money. We’re happy to help you brainstorm any time!