Maximize Impact with a Micro Fundraiser: Small Donations, Big Change

A Small Event with a Big Impact: Introducing the Micro-Fundraiser

Non-profits are always looking for new, creative ways to raise funds without increasing workload or risk. That’s why we’re excited to introduce a fresh fundraising idea that’s already generating buzz: the micro-fundraiser. With Event.Gives, you can run a simple, high-impact online auction or raffle centered around one high-value item—with zero upfront costs and zero risk—while creating a compelling appeal that motivates supporters to participate and give.

What Is a Micro-Fundraiser for Micro Donations?

A micro-fundraiser is a streamlined fundraising event that focuses on one exclusive trip, experience, or luxury item, rather than a full-scale silent auction with dozens or even hundreds of items. The simplicity of a single-item auction not only makes your job easier, but it also increases audience engagement.

Each individual donation, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in the success of a micro-fundraiser.

With everyone’s attention on a single, exciting prize, you’re more likely to spark competitive bidding and boost fundraising results.

Why One Item Works Better Than One Hundred

Think about it—when attendees are presented with over 100 items in a silent auction or raffle, attention is split, and bids are often spread thin. A micro-fundraiser flips that approach on its head by putting all the focus on one show-stopping item. This creates a sense of exclusivity and excitement, leading to higher bids and more donor interest. The format also allows donors to feel a more personal connection to the cause and the prize.

From a psychological standpoint, donors tend to engage more when there’s a clear and exciting goal. Highlighting a single, desirable prize taps into their competitive instincts, boosts emotional investment, and drives a greater sense of urgency. The simplicity of the format reduces decision fatigue and encourages more people to participate—especially if it’s a raffle or online auction they can join with just a few clicks.

How to Collect Micro Donations with Event.Gives

Running a micro-fundraiser through the Event.Gives platform is simple and stress-free:

1. Login or create your free Event.Gives account.
2. Browse our curated marketplace of high-end auction and raffle items.
3. Choose one item to feature in your event.

Supporters can easily donate small amounts—sometimes just a few dollars—through the platform, making participation accessible to everyone.

And here’s the best part—there’s no risk. If the item doesn’t sell, you owe nothing. If it does, you’ll receive 15% of the minimum bid plus 100% of anything raised above the minimum. The process is transparent, allowing organizations and donors to see exactly how much has been donated and how the dollars are allocated. Even a few dollars donated by each supporter can quickly add up to a significant total. The item provider only keeps 85% of the minimum bid amount, making this a win-win for your organization.

This model is ideal for:

• Short fundraising campaigns
• End-of-year giving pushes
• Raffle-style promotions
• Donor engagement events
• Organizations with limited staff or budget

The Power of Collective Effort

When it comes to charitable giving, the true power of micro donations lies in the collective effort of many individuals coming together to support a mission. While a single small donation may seem modest, the impact of thousands of micro donors contributing small amounts can be transformative for nonprofits and the communities they serve. This approach, often called micro philanthropy, allows organizations to raise funds in a way that is both accessible and sustainable.

Micro donation platforms like ShareTheMeal and Google One Today have revolutionized the way nonprofits collect micro donations, making it easy for anyone to contribute—even if it’s just a dollar at a time. These online platforms harness the power of technology to reach a large number of potential donors, breaking down barriers to giving and making it possible for supporters from all walks of life to participate. By encouraging micro donations, organizations can tap into new funding sources and engage younger generations, such as Millennials and Gen Z, who are often more comfortable making small, recurring gifts online.

The beauty of a micro donation campaign is that it creates a sense of community and shared responsibility. When supporters see that their small contributions are part of a larger movement, they feel connected to the cause and to each other. This collective impact can be especially appealing to families, peer groups, and networks who want to make a difference together. For example, a nonprofit might launch a campaign to fund a new community program, inviting supporters to round up their purchases to the nearest dollar or make a small gift each week. Over time, these small donations add up to big difference, providing vital funds for programs and services.

Relying on a large number of small gifts also helps nonprofits reduce their dependence on major donors and large gifts, creating a more stable and resilient funding base. This diversification is crucial for long-term sustainability, especially in uncertain times. Plus, micro donations can be directed toward specific projects, allowing donors to see exactly how their money is being used and fostering a sense of transparency and trust.

Donor retention is another key benefit of focusing on micro donors. By showing appreciation—whether through personalized messages, public recognition, or even sending handwritten notes—organizations can build lasting relationships with their supporters. These gestures of gratitude help donors feel valued and encourage them to continue giving, turning one-time contributors into loyal advocates for the cause.

In today’s digital world, the ability to collect micro donations through accessible, user-friendly platforms means that anyone can be a philanthropist. As more nonprofits embrace this approach, the collective power of small contributions will continue to drive meaningful change and support missions that matter. Whether you’re a fundraiser looking to engage new supporters or a donor wanting to make a difference, remember: together, even the smallest gifts can create a world of impact.

Flexible, Scalable, and Designed for You

Micro-fundraisers are especially useful between major campaigns or as part of a year-round fundraising strategy. For example, one non-profit used a trip to Tuscany as a summer raffle item, promoting it across social media and email for two weeks. The result? They raised more than they had with their entire silent auction the year before—and with far less effort. Another organization launched a one-item auction featuring a behind-the-scenes sports experience for Giving Tuesday and saw a surge in first-time donors. Organizations can also develop new micro-fundraiser strategies to engage their supporters, tailoring offerings to attract both new and existing members of their community.

With no upfront costs, no risk, and minimal setup time, a micro-fundraiser makes it easier than ever to raise funds. Every contribution from each person or member of the community helps drive the success of the event. Whether you’re looking to boost donations between larger events or test out new fundraising ideas, this strategy helps you generate revenue with no expenses and keeps your donors excited to participate.

Ready to Try a Micro Donation Campaign?

Event.Gives empowers non-profits with innovative tools for online auctions, raffles, event ticketing, and more. A micro-fundraiser is the perfect way to get started—or to supplement your annual fundraising strategy with a low-lift, high-impact campaign. Micro-fundraisers are also a great way to get families involved in donating together, making it easy for everyone to participate and contribute. As fundraisers learn, encouraging ongoing support through micro donations micro, not just focusing on major gifts, can help build lasting donor relationships and financial stability.

Start your micro-fundraiser today and see how big a difference one item can make.

Tip: After your event, send handwritten notes to thank participants for donating and supporting your cause.