Movie Fundraising

Organising a movie-themed fundraiser can be a unique and entertaining way to gather support and funds for your cause. Everyone loves a good flick, and leveraging that universal appeal can help you reach not only your core supporters but also their friends and extended networks. Here are some creative ways to fundraise with movies, along with tips on effectively communicating your cause.

Ways to Fundraise with Movies

1. Movie Ticket Sales

Selling movie tickets is a classic and straightforward method for fundraising:

• Partner with Local Cinemas: Reach out to local cinemas and negotiate a percentage of the ticket sales to be donated to your cause.
• Discounted Group Rates: Many theatres offer discounted rates for large groups. You can buy these tickets at a lower price and sell them at the regular price, keeping the difference as your fundraising profit.
• Special Screenings: Organise a special screening of a popular or newly released movie. Promote it as an exclusive event to attract a larger audience.

2. Renting an Entire Cinema

Hiring out an entire cinema can create a sense of exclusivity and community:

• Private Viewing Experience: Offer a private viewing for your supporters. This can be particularly appealing for classic films, new releases or highly anticipated films.
• Themed Nights: Organise themed movie nights, such as a 'Retro Film Night' or 'Family Movie Night,' to attract different demographics.
• Concession Stand Partnerships: Work with the cinema’s concession stand to share a portion of the sales, adding an extra revenue stream.

3. Outdoor Movie Events

Hosting an outdoor movie night can be a magical experience and attract a broad audience:

• Inflatable Screens: Rent inflatable screens and projectors to set up an outdoor cinema. Parks, school fields, and community centres are great locations.
• Picnic Style: Encourage attendees to bring blankets and picnic baskets, creating a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere.
• Food Trucks and Stalls: Partner with local food trucks or vendors to sell food and drinks, sharing a percentage of the profits with your organisation.

Check out our article on organising an outdoor movie night!

Attracting a Wider Audience

Fundraisers like movie nights are perfect for drawing support beyond your core group of members. Friends of friends are likely to join, making it a community-wide event. Here’s how you can maximise attendance:

• Social Media Promotion: Utilise social media platforms to promote your event. Create engaging posts and shareable content to reach a broader audience.
• Email Campaigns: Send out emails to your supporters, encouraging them to invite their friends and family.
• Posters and Flyers: Distribute posters and flyers in local businesses, schools, and community centers to generate buzz.

Clear Communication of Your Cause

It’s always crucial to communicate why you’re fundraising. If you don't know what that is - make it a priority to spend time figuring it out! Make your message loud and clear:

• Event Branding: Incorporate your cause into the event branding. For instance, if you're raising money for a new school playground, name the event something like "Movies for Playgrounds."
• Opening Speech: Start the movie night with a brief speech or presentation about your cause and how the funds raised will be used.
• Informational Handouts: Provide attendees with handouts or brochures that detail your cause and the impact of their support.

By organising movie-themed fundraisers, you not only provide a fun and enjoyable experience for attendees but also create a platform to effectively raise awareness and funds for your cause.