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Sell Fundraiser Tickets Online: Strategies + Best Practices

Navigating fundraiser ticket sales might seem daunting. To be successful, your org needs to sell as many tickets as possible. You know most people are accustomed to making online purchases online and that as a result they expect to buy tickets online, too. 

However, your nonprofit has also sold printed tickets in the past. In fact, many people want to buy tickets and receive something tangible. Since you don’t want to leave any potential ticket sale on the table, how do you accomplish both?

Balance Online and In-Person Ticket Sales: A Winning Strategy

Your approach to ticket sales impacts a fundraising event’s success. A winning strategy is to combine offline and online ticket sales.

Greater Reach

Selling digital tickets online appeals to many. Meanwhile, printed tickets and in-person sales provide access to those who prefer them. Used together, no potential supporter is excluded.

Improved Data Collection and Management

Selling tickets online provides valuable audience insights, which enable targeted communications and strategic planning. By including offline sales data, you’ll gain better insight into your donor base.

Crafting Your Ticket Sales Strategy

This guide is designed to help you sell fundraiser tickets online and in person. Below, we’ll explore ticket-selling strategies, from ticket types and FOMO to marketing strategies.

Number 1

Select the right event ticketing platform

Choose a ticketing platform that meets your event’s needs. Consider factors such as user experience, cost, and integrations. If you’re selling tickets online and IRL, a platform that handles both is key.

Things to think about as you choose your events platform:

  • Interface: Ensure the platform simplifies event setup, ticket sales, and registration. If team members are helping, make sure you can manage access and permissions.
  • Cost: Look beyond fees—consider the value you receive. Then, choose a platform that aligns with your financial constraints.
  • Integrations: Does the platform seamlessly link with your existing systems? Consider APIs or integrations for efficient data management.
  • Scope: Opt for a platform that can grow with you and accomodate events of all sizes.
  • Ticketing ability: If  your nonprofit hosts galas and banquets, your platform should accomodate reserved seating, banquet seating, and table sales. Additionally, to help you sell as many tickets as possible, you’ll want your platform to enable a variety of ticket types.
  • Support: Is the platform’s customer support accessible? Do they understand events? Are they there for you throughout the event process
  • Event day: Ensure the platform offers dependable service. Can all your event day-of helpers access the guest list and check people in if there’s no WiFi?
Number 2

Create an engaging event page

Your event page is the gateway to your charity event’s existing and potential donors. Use it to present your cause and the event compellingly.

Event page essentials:

  • Clear information: Ensure all essential event details are prominently displayed.
  • Storytelling: Include images and text that capture your mission.
  • Easy ticket purchase: Make the process clear and secure for ticket buyers. Give everyone the option to buy digital or printed tickets. Provide information on how people can buy tickets in person.
  • Mobile: Many will access your page on their mobile devices. Be sure your event page is mobile-friendly!
a gala table with a pretty rose centerpiece
Number 3

Customize ticket types

Ticket pricing isn’t just about numbers—it’s a strategic tool that impacts your event’s success. Whether through early bird discounts, ticket bundling, or VIP packages, a tailored ticketing approach will help fill seats fast.

Ticket type basics:

  • General admission: This baseline ticket is the entry point for budget-conscious attendees.
  • VIP tickets: Elevate the experience. VIPs enjoy exclusive perks, such as reserved seating, backstage access, or meet-and-greets.
  • Group tickets: Families or friends can purchase tickets together at a reduced rate.
  • Special ticket types: Offer discounted tickets to specific groups, such as early bird tickets, student pricing, or special tickets for long-time donors.
Number 4

Multi-channel marketing

Develop an event promotion strategy to reach potential attendees wherever they are.

Here’s how to maximize your impact:

  • Your website: Create a dedicated event page. Include essentials such as the date, time, location, and performers. You’ll also need to add a strong call-to-action to buy event tickets. If possible, embed your platform’s ticket sales widget on your site.
  • Email campaigns: Segment your messages based on past attendance, donation history, and interests. In your emails, emphasize how attending contributes to your cause. Don’t forget to incorporate eye-catching visuals!
  • Social media platforms: Share updates and testimonials from previous attendees. Generate FOMO by reminding people when ticket types are on their way out. For example, if you offer an early bird ticket price, count down to the day that deal is over!
  • Print and digital marketing: Place ads on relevant websites and social media platforms. Order printed posters and postcards with QR codes that direct people to your event page. Mail postcards and distribute posters throughout your community.
a gala table with a pretty rose centerpiece
Number 5

Highlight your upcoming event’s benefits

People attend fundraising events for a reason. Access that and you’ll increase sales. So, don’t just ask people to buy tickets—show them why they should want to! People buy event tickets because they’re passionate about a cause or it sounds like a great time.

When selling fundraiser tickets, emphasize both:

  • Experience: Describe what attendees can expect. Highlight speakers, entertainment, and any unique features. In other words, make sure to communicate just how great your event is!
  • Impact: Remind potential attendees that purchasing a ticket supports your mission. If you’re using the money for specific things, such as clothing for interviews, communicate that! Directly connect how purchasing event tickets makes a difference.
Number 6

Create urgency

FOMO is a powerful thing. Whether through limited-time offers or word of mouth, you want people to feel like they just can’t miss your event.

Inspire fear of missing out through:

  • Social proof: Share images and videos of past events on social media. Highlight moments of joy, engagement, and community. Potential attendees want to see real people having a great time while making a difference.
  • Limited-time offers: Create early bird discounts or other temporary promotions. Encourage immediate action by emphasizing scarcity.
  • Flash sales: Surprise your audience with sudden, short-lived discounts. A “24-hour flash sale because it’s Friday!” will help prompt immediate action.
  • Scarcity messaging: Use phrases like “Limited time!” or “Seats filling up fast!” to remind people time and space are limited.
  • Corporate packages: Help companies with their CSR commitments by targeting businesses.
  • Community organizations: Partner with local clubs, schools, or nonprofits. Bulk ticket purchases, as well as other organizations and people advocating for your cause and event, create a sense of community support.
Number 7

Manage event registration and data collection

Attendee registration and data collection enhance event planning and lay the groundwork for future fundraising success. So, treat attendee data as a goldmine—it holds the key to building lasting connections with your supporters!

Here’s why efficient guest registration and data collection are key:

  • Streamlined check-in: A smooth check-in process sets the tone for the entire event. QR codes on event tickets and mobile check-in mean shorter queues.
  • Accurate count: Knowing your numbers and who’s checked in helps with things like seating arrangements and resource allocation.
  • Enrich your donor database: Every attendee is a potential supporter. Collecting their information—names, emails, affiliations—adds valuable data to your donor database. Use this data for future fundraising campaigns, personalized outreach, and relationship building.
  • Understanding preferences: Analyzing attendee data reveals insights into your audience. Knowing the age, location, and interests of your supporters will help you better tailor how you communicate.
  • Post-event follow-up: Send personalized thank-you messages to attendees. Express gratitude for their support. You can also gather insights into their experience. What worked well? What can be improved?
Number 8

Maximize in-person sales

In-person ticket sales ensure your event is accessible to all.

  • Leverage your network: Empower volunteers and staff to sell tickets within their circles.
  • Set up shop: High-traffic areas like local businesses and community events are prime real estate for ticket booths. You can also partner with local businesses to promote ticket sales.
  • Offer incentives: Encourage immediate ticket purchases through early bird specials, group rates, and promo codes.
  • Sell tickets at the door: By selling tickets on-site, you can create more opportunities for participation in your fundraising event. This approach allows for spontaneous additions and makes it easier for groups to join in.

Every nonprofit’s event has the potential to raise funds and expand its community of supporters. As you implement these strategies, remember that each ticket sold isn’t simply a donation. It’s a testament to the trust and support your community has in your mission!

Ready to get started? Our all-in-one event ticketing and fundraising solution simplifies selling fundraiser tickets and  managing your events, leaving you time to focus on your cause. Eventgroove is equipped with all the tools you need, including easy registration and online ticket sales, event ticket printing, seamless check in, team management, and more.  Plus, if ever you need help, our Montana-based team is happy to assist. Sign up for your free fundraising account.

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