Hey, band boosters: We know you’re always thinking of marching band fundraising ideas — and we are too, thanks to the fantastic collections that come in from our users! Here are five we’ve seen, loved, and watched bring in the donations. Pick one, two, or all of them, and be on your way to funding those uniforms, marching band competitions, banquets, travel, and more.
(Need even more fundraising ideas? Get your own band fundraiser starter kit for free!)
Successful Marching Band Fundraiser Ideas
Not only are these fun, unique ideas, they’re also confirmed money-makers.
1. Tag Day
During a specified amount of time, marching band members walk door-to-door to deliver “tags” and ask for donations. The “tags” are a bookmark-sized schedule of the band’s games and performances — and the perfect spot for a QR code for your Cheddar Up collection.
2. Repurpose and Sell Old Band Uniforms
What a perfect way to clear out the band closets and bring in some cash. Simply sell old (cleaned) band uniforms and shakos as-is, or turn them into momentos! Parma (OH) Senior High upcycled uniforms into pillows, tote bags, ornaments and keychains. So creative and clever.
3. Rehearse-a-Thon Uniforms
The Loudoun County High School Marching Raiders in Leesburg, Virginia, doubled up their beginning-of-season camp with a fundraiser. Each marcher was tasked to raise $100 in personal sponsorships over the course of the week. The band collectively raised more than $5,500 in this effort!
4. Seasonal Concerts + Recordings
In addition to football games and marching band competitions, plan a themed, ticketed event. We’ve seen holiday parades around the school’s parking lot, and a zombie walk that concluded with a concert at the finish line. (Is that your next costumed Halloween event?) Take a note from Lakeshore High School Marching Band in Stevensville, Michigan, and sell recordings and photos from every performance, and direct all proceeds back to the band fund.
5. Sponsorships with Program or Banner Tributes
Many band boosters solicit sponsorships each year from corporate partners, family, and/or friends. In return, sponsors receive an advertisement in the football program, a banner at football games, or their name or brand logo on band goods. The options are endless, really!
What’s your marching band fundraising idea?
We’re here to help bring it to life. With no-effort collection tools for group payments and forms, plus real-time money reporting, Cheddar Up is equipped to run your show.
