Jumpstart Donations to Your Project in One Hour (or Less!)

Additional research by Claire Sampson

Not sure how to get your new project funded? Have an older request that needs a boost? When your project receives a few initial donations, it increases the likelihood that donors you’ve never met will find and support your classroom. Here’s everything you need to know to get your project off the ground. Presenting... the 60-Minute Project Power-Up!

Your #1 Tool (30 Minutes)

“If there’s people you think would be interested in donating, just send them an email,” says Ohio teacher Lisa Frank. Many of our most successful users agree: Nothing beats a personalized ask. Take 30 minutes to send individual emails to the four people you think would be most game to contribute to your classroom. Reach out to friends, family, local businesses, or other folks who care about your students.  (Don't forget to include your teacher page link!)

The Jelly to Your Peanut Butter (15 Minutes)

The chips to your fish! The Garfunkel to your Simon! When you use social media alone, your posts can get lost in the black hole of the internet — but when you use it in combination with email, social media can work wonders. Put your teacher page link in your social media profiles and email signatures. Then, create a special Facebook post about your project. Friends may be inspired to donate or help spread the word.“Definitely endorse yourself on social media,” says Illinois educator Amani Abuhabsah. It’s the easiest way to keep potential donors in-the-know about your project, and it only takes 15 minutes.

The Resource You Didn’t Know You Had (15 Minutes)

With your final 15 minutes, print your ready-to-use, personalized flyers and business cards. You can send them home with your students, post one at the local coffee shop, and have a stack for school events. Put a few business cards in your wallet for when an opportune moment arises!“When I’m in conversation with someone, I’m like, ‘Oh hey, did you see my project?’” says Virginia teacher Katherine Kirdahi. Your natural excitement about your students and classroom will shine through and inspire curiosity about your request.

Want to become an expert? Dive deeper into email fundraising