Step 1: Assess Your Organization's Capacity

Before launching into fundraising, it's crucial to assess your nonprofit's capabilities. Use this self-assessment questionnaire to evaluate your organization:

• Staffing: Do you have dedicated staff or volunteers focused on fundraising? If so, how many?
• Skills: What specific fundraising skills do your team members possess? This can range from grant writing to event planning.
• Time: How much time can your team dedicate to fundraising activities each week?
• Network: What relationships do you currently have with local businesses, community members, or hockey enthusiasts that can support your fundraising efforts?
• Mission Alignment: How well do potential fundraising activities align with your team’s mission and values?

Step 2: Explore Fundraising Ideas

Once you've done your self-assessment, consider these fundraising ideas tailored for ice hockey teams:

1. Charity Hockey Game

• Organize a charity game where local businesses sponsor players. Charge admission and promote it as a fun community event.
• Offer concessions during the game to boost revenue and engage fans.

2. Ice Hockey Camp

• Host a weekend or summer camp where children from the community can learn ice hockey skills from your team members.
• Charge a registration fee that includes ice time, coaching, and merchandise like t-shirts.

3. Raffle or Prize Draws

• Partner with local businesses to donate prizes for a raffle. Sell tickets during games or online.
• Promote the raffle on social media to increase ticket sales.

4. Team Merchandise Sales

• Create team-branded merchandise, such as jerseys, hats, or mugs, and sell them at games and online.
• This not only raises funds but also builds team spirit and visibility.

Step 3: Decision Matrix Template

Fundraising IdeaFeasibilityCommunity EngagementPotential RevenueCharity Hockey GameHighHighMediumIce Hockey CampMediumMediumHighRaffle or Prize DrawsHighMediumMediumTeam Merchandise SalesHighHighMedium

Step 4: Create an Implementation Timeline

Develop a timeline to keep your fundraising efforts organized. Here’s a sample timeline for organizing a Charity Hockey Game:

• 8 Weeks Before: Confirm the date, location, and secure sponsorships.
• 6 Weeks Before: Start advertising through social media and local newspapers.
• 4 Weeks Before: Promote pre-sale tickets and contact local businesses for concessions.
• 1 Week Before: Finalize game day logistics, including volunteers, equipment, and setup.
• Game Day: Host the event, ensuring smooth operations and community engagement.

Step 5: Budget Considerations

Successful fundraising relies on solid budget planning. Consider the following:

• Fixed Costs: Venue rental, equipment usage fees, marketing materials, and permits (if necessary).
• Variable Costs: Supplies for concessions (for a game), materials for camp activities, and prize costs for raffles.
• Target Revenue: Set realistic financial goals based on your budget and expected attendance.

Step 6: Conduct a Risk Assessment

A comprehensive risk assessment helps manage potential challenges:

• Financial Risks: Evaluate break-even points and potential losses if the event doesn't meet attendance expectations.
• Reputation Risks: Consider how issues, such as poor organization or lack of community support, could affect your team's image.
• Logistical Risks: Prepare for unexpected problems, such as venue cancellations or bad weather (if applicable).

By following this guide, you can discover a fundraising idea that fits your ice hockey team’s mission and effectively engages your community. Best of luck!