How to Name Your Fundraiser: A Step-by-Step Guide

Choosing the right name for your fundraiser is more than a creative exercise — it’s a strategic move that can boost engagement, increase donations, and make your campaign more memorable. A strong name captures attention, communicates your mission, and inspires action.

Here’s a simple guide on how to name your fundraiser effectively.

1. Start With Your Purpose 🧭

The best names are mission-driven.

• Ask: Why are we fundraising?
• Identify your campaign’s main impact (e.g., supporting youth programs, building a shelter, funding a scholarship).
• Use strong, clear language that reflects your goal.

Example: Instead of “Annual Fundraiser,” try “Run for Hope” or “Books for Every Child.”

2. Keep It Short and Memorable ✨

Long, complicated names get forgotten. Aim for 2–5 words that are easy to say, spell, and share.

• Avoid technical jargon or insider language.
• Keep it simple enough to fit on signage, flyers, and social media graphics.

Example: “Miles for Meals,” “Hearts for Haiti,” or “Pitch In for Pups.”

3. Make It Action-Oriented 💪

A name that inspires action can help build momentum.

• Use verbs that convey movement or emotion (e.g., Run, Build, Give, Light, Lift, Feed).
• Consider words that create a sense of urgency or unity.

Example: “Walk to End Hunger” or “Light the Night.”

4. Tie It to Your Cause 🌍

Your name should give donors a clear idea of what they’re supporting.

• Include references to your mission or theme.
• If your fundraiser supports a specific program, weave that into the name.

Example: For an animal shelter, something like “Paws for a Cause” immediately communicates the purpose.

5. Use Alliteration or Rhyme (When It Fits) 🎤

Names that flow easily are more likely to stick in people’s minds.

• Alliteration: Repeating sounds (e.g., Bike for Books, Dine & Donate)
• Rhyme: Simple wordplay can make the name catchy and fun.

Pro Tip: Don’t force it. If it doesn’t sound natural, keep it clean and straightforward.

6. Check for Uniqueness ✅

Before finalizing, search the name online to ensure it’s not already in use by another organization.

• Check domain availability if you plan to build a campaign website.
• Make sure your name is easy to find and not easily confused with something else.

7. Test It Out 📢

Run your top 2–3 name options by your team, volunteers, or donors. If people remember it after hearing it once, you’ve likely found a winner.

Final Thought

When learning how to name your fundraiser, remember: clarity beats cleverness. A strong name should be easy to say, instantly recognizable, and tied to your mission. Get this right, and your fundraiser will stand out — before it even begins.

Tom Kelly

Tom Kelly, TEDx speaker and CEO of CharityAuctions.com, helps nonprofits raise millions through auctions and AI. He hosts The Million Dollar Nonprofit podcast and inspires leaders to live their legacy, not just leave it.