How to Run a Raffle Fundraiser

Running a raffle is an effective way to engage supporters and raise funds. This guide walks you through setting up and managing a raffle fundraiser on Raised.

Before You Begin

For the smoothest raffle experience:

• Use Stripe as your payment method to automate payment collection
• Plan your ticket pricing strategy
• Prepare your raffle terms and conditions
• Consider your campaign duration

Creating Your Raffle Ticket Catalog

First, you'll need to create a catalog containing your raffle ticket product:

1. Access Catalog Management

   • Log in to your Raised Dashboard
   • Click "Manage Catalogues"
   • Select "Create new self-hosted catalogue"

2. Configure Catalog Settings

   • Enter a name for your catalog (e.g., "Raffle Tickets")
   • Check "Digital Products" as raffle tickets are virtual items
   • Select your currency
   • Click "Product Configuration"

3. Add Raffle Ticket Product

   • Click "Add Item"
   • Fill in the basic product information:
     • Name: "Raffle Ticket" (or your preferred name)
     • Description: Describe what the raffle is for
     • Price: Set your ticket price
   • Optional settings:
     • Add an Item SKU for tracking
     • Set a cap per order if you want to limit tickets per purchase
     • Upload a ticket image if desired
   • Click "Save"

4. Save Your Catalog

   • Review all settings
   • Click "Save Changes"

Setting Up Your Raffle Campaign

Once your catalog is ready:

1. Start Campaign Creation

   • Click "Create Campaign"
   • Select "Self-Hosted Campaign"
   • Choose your raffle ticket catalog

2. Configure Campaign Details

   • Enter your campaign name
   • Write a compelling description explaining:
     • What you're raising funds for
     • The prizes available
     • When and how winners will be selected
   • Upload a campaign banner image
   • Choose your campaign color
   • Enter contact information (this will be public)

3. Set Campaign Period

   • Choose your start and end dates
   • Consider allowing enough time for promotion
   • Set a specific end time for the raffle

4. Configure Payment Settings

   Important: We strongly recommend using Stripe (credit/debit card) payments only. This ensures:

   • Automatic payment processing
   • No manual cash collection needed
   • Easier record keeping
   • Access to email communication features

Managing Your Raffle

Tracking Sales

• Monitor ticket sales through your Raised Dashboard
• View detailed order information
• Export order data if needed for the draw

Communicating with Ticket Holders

You can send emails to your supporters to:

• Confirm their entries
• Provide updates
• Announce winners
• Share results

Best Practices

1. Clear Communication

   • Clearly state all raffle terms and conditions
   • Explain how winners will be selected
   • Provide timeline for winner announcement

2. Promotion

   • Share your campaign link widely
   • Use social media to promote your raffle
   • Consider early-bird incentives

3. Winner Selection

   • Document your selection process
   • Use a transparent method for choosing winners
   • Keep detailed records of all entries

4. After the Draw

   • Promptly notify winners
   • Thank all participants
   • Share results with your community

Need Help?

If you need assistance setting up your raffle fundraiser or have questions about payment methods, please contact our support team for help.