The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations is the membership organisation for Scotland's charities, voluntary organisations and social enterprises. Charity registered in Scotland SC003558. Registered office Mansfield Traquair Centre, 15 Mansfield Place, Edinburgh EH3 6BB.
Fundraising methods
Grant funding may not always the most appropriate form of funding for a group or project. Income raised from other sources is usually unrestricted, meaning it can be used to cover any costs your group might have. There are lots of ways to generate income through other sources - the information below highlights a few of the main ones.
Remember, you don’t need to do everything! A fundraising plan can help you to decide which types of fundraising are right for your organisation.
Individual giving is a broad term and can include a wide range of fundraising methods where individuals donate to your organisation. This could be a one off donation, monthly donations (Regular giving), donations through payroll or as a gift in a will (see Legacy giving below). Sometimes, money raised from a charity event such as a sponsored run is categorised as individual giving.
As with all forms of fundraising, you should have a clear message for why should people donate to you, and make it as easy as possible for individuals to make their donation.
Code of Fundraising Practice: Standards which apply to all fundraising
You can claim back 25p every time an individual donates £1 through the Gift Aid scheme. To be eligible to claim Gift Aid you must be recognised as a charity or CASC for tax purposes.
Corporate fundraising involves partnering with businesses and the benefits can range from raising funds through staff fundraising or payroll giving, to employee volunteering and in-kind support. A corporate partnership should be mutually beneficial that works for both parties.
For more information on corporate fundraising, the Chartered Institute of Fundraising have a helpful guide.
Fundraising events can require resources, time and effort but are a way to bring in unrestricted income and encourage people to get involved with your group. There are many types of fundraising events to choose from including charity walks, quiz nights, or even a simple BBQ event. Before you start planning, decide which type of event is best for your group, audience, and budget.
The logistics or running a safe and successful event will vary depending on the type of event you choose. The Chartered Institute of Fundraising have a helpful guide with tips on planning a fundraising event that cover everything you need to consider.
If you’re thinking of running a raffle or prize competition as part of your event there are specific rules you need to follow. See the Code of Fundraising Practice section on lotteries and prizes for more information.
A major donor is an individual who makes a donation which has a significant impact on your organisation. There is no set amount for what a major gift is, it depends on what this means for your organisation. Major donor fundraising is based on developing long term relationships with people and often requires people from across your organisation working together.
There are important steps to think through if you're looking to start major donor fundraising. You will need to consider data protection and prospect research, as well as due diligence checks and gift acceptance. There may also be tax impacts which you should be aware of.
For more information on major donor fundraising, The Chartered Institute of Fundraising have a useful guide.
When an individual leaves a gift in their will, it is often based on a long-term relationship with the charity or charities they choose to donate to. Legacy fundraising can involve sensitive conversations and ethical and legal considerations. The Chartered Institute of Fundraising have excellent guidance on legacy fundraising if you are considering this for your charity.
In-kind support tends to be in the form of donated equipment or goods, services provided at no cost, or the use of a premises/space for free. Have a think about existing networks and connections you have and what type of support they could possibly offer.
As with previous fundraising methods, remember to get across your story, thank the donor, and update them with how their donation made a difference.
Fundraising regulation
If you are carrying out any type of fundraising activity you must adhere to the Code of Fundraising Practice. The Code sets out the responsibilities that apply to all fundraising carried out in the UK and is designed to protect donors and groups. It’s worth taking a look at the Code and the guidance for specific fundraising types before you start.
The Scottish Fundraising Adjudication Panel oversees the regulation of fundraising in Scotland.
Funding Scotland
SCVO's Funding Scotland service gives you access to up to date, high-quality information on funding opportunities. It is free for any voluntary organisation working in Scotland with exclusive features for SCVO members.