67 Profitable School Fundraisers Any Campus Can Host
By Colin Hunter on
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Every school has unique needs, but one thing they all have in common is the ongoing search for funding. From art supplies to playground upgrades, the list of needs is endless. The real challenge isn’t just raising funds. It’s finding ideas that actually work for your campus and community.
That’s where narrowing in on the most profitable fundraisers for schools comes in handy. Instead of rehashing the same old bake sales, we’re exploring fresh ideas, including the most profitable PTO fundraisers, that fit any school’s goals and bring the community together meaningfully.
It’s time to rethink fundraising with strategies that truly make an impact.
Event-Based Fundraisers
Talent Show
Bring out the stars in your school with a talent show. Students get the spotlight to perform anything from music to magic tricks.
Sell tickets for admission and make the evening even more engaging by offering snacks or holding a small raffle between acts.
With minimal costs for setup and plenty of entertainment value, talent shows often become one of the most profitable fundraising ideas for schools.
Outdoor Movie Night
A big screen, cozy blankets, and a family-friendly film can create a perfect evening for your community.
Set up a projector and a simple seating area outdoors, then charge a small admission fee. Boost earnings with a concession stand offering popcorn, candy, and drinks.
Since it’s an event the whole family can enjoy, outdoor movie nights often draw in large crowds.
Carnival Day
Turn your school into a mini carnival for a day packed with games, food, and laughter.
Parent volunteers can run booths with classic games like ring toss or bean bag toss while students and families enjoy activities with tickets they purchase. Adding inflatables or small rides can elevate the event, but even simpler setups can be highly effective.
Thanks to their broad appeal, it’s no surprise that carnival days are often listed among the most profitable PTO fundraisers.
Dance-a-Thon
A dance-a-thon is more than just a fundraiser; it’s an energy-packed party.
Students ask friends and family to pledge donations for each hour they stay on the dance floor. Music, themes, and even glow-in-the-dark accessories can make the event extra exciting.
To involve the community, consider letting parents and teachers join in as special guests or DJs.
Color Run
Imagine students running through bursts of vibrant color as spectators cheer them on.
A color run combines fitness, fun, and community in one dynamic fundraiser. Charge participants an entry fee and encourage them to gather additional donations.
To keep costs low, use donated supplies for the colorful powder and water stations. Adding t-shirts or medals for participants can enhance the experience and draw even more interest.
Trivia Night
Gather your community for a fun-filled trivia night.
For a small fee, teams can sign up to test their knowledge on themes such as pop culture, school history, or sports. To add excitement, offer a prize to the winning team.
You can keep things simple with tables, pens, and scorecards or make it lively with a digital trivia app. Trivia nights are often among the most profitable fundraising ideas for schools because they are low-cost and high-energy.
Sports Tournament
Turn your school gym or field into a competitive arena for a day.
Host a basketball, soccer, or dodgeball tournament. Students, parents, and even staff can form teams and pay an entry fee to compete.
Sell tickets to spectators and offer snacks or drinks to increase earnings.
Game Night
How about an evening of board games and friendly competition?
Families can participate by paying a small entry fee to access different game stations featuring classics like Scrabble, Uno, or chess.
Add a touch of fun by setting up a “champion’s corner” for those who win multiple rounds.
Scavenger Hunt
Plan a scavenger hunt that takes participants on a journey around campus or nearby areas. Teams can pay to enter and race against each other to solve riddles and find hidden items.
Include themed challenges or a bonus prize for the most creative team to make it more exciting.
Scavenger hunts are a favorite on the list of most profitable fundraising ideas for schools because they combine adventure with teamwork.
Themed Party Night
Bring some creativity to your fundraiser by hosting a themed party night.
Choose a theme, like a ‘90s throwback, Hollywood red carpet, or a pajama party, and charge an entry fee. Include add-ons like a costume contest or a DIY photo booth to raise extra funds.
These events often rank among the most profitable PTO fundraisers because they encourage participation while allowing attendees to have fun and relax.
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Sales-Based Fundraisers
Popcorn Sales
Who doesn’t love popcorn? Partner with a gourmet popcorn company to offer exciting flavors like caramel, cheddar, or spicy chili.
Sell them in small bags at events or use pre-order forms to reach a wider audience.
Popcorn sales are simple to organize and consistently rank as one of the most profitable fundraisers for schools because they appeal to almost everyone.
Chocolate Sales
Chocolate is a tried-and-true favorite for fundraising.
From classic bars to custom treats wrapped in school-themed packaging, chocolate sales practically sell themselves.
Focus on timing, like holidays or school events, to get the most out of your efforts.
Cookie Dough Sales
Families love the convenience of having ready-to-bake cookie dough on hand.
Pre-sell tubs in various flavors, letting buyers stock up on desserts or last-minute treats. It’s easy to manage, especially if you partner with a trusted supplier.
This idea is a hit with PTOs and, thanks to its practicality and popularity, is often one of the most profitable fundraisers.
School Spirit Wear
Promote school pride while raising funds by selling branded clothing and accessories.
Hoodies, caps, or even tote bags featuring your school logo can be sold online or at events. Adding seasonal items, like scarves or beanies, keeps the offerings fresh.
School spirit wear builds a sense of community and is one of the most profitable fundraisers for schools because people love showing off their school pride.
Coffee or Tea Bundles
Coffee or tea bundles offer a unique and practical fundraising idea.
Partner with a local roaster or tea supplier to create curated bundles or stick with popular packaged brands.
Market them as thoughtful gifts for holidays or teacher appreciation days.
Holiday Wreaths
Seasonal fundraisers like holiday wreaths add a festive touch to your efforts—partner with a local florist or craft vendor to supply wreaths, garlands, or even centerpieces.
Families love adding holiday decor to their homes, and the proceeds can make a big difference for your school.
With their seasonal charm, wreath sales are often one of the most profitable holiday fundraising ideas for schools.
Seasonal Catalog Sales
Why limit your fundraiser to one item when you can offer an entire catalog?
Partner with a company that offers seasonal goods like gift wrap, candles, or gardening supplies. Families can browse the catalog and order what they need directly.
Seasonal catalogs are often among the most profitable fundraisers for schools because they provide a wide range of options for supporters.
Book Sales
Books bring people together, and hosting a book sale does just that.
Set up a used book sale by collecting donations from the school community. Arrange books by genre or grade level for an easy shopping experience.
Alternatively, you can host a new book fair through a publishing company.
Water Bottle Sales
Custom-designed water bottles are practical, sustainable, and a great way to promote school spirit.
Print your school’s logo or mascot on reusable bottles and sell them at sports games or during lunch breaks. Parents, students, and even teachers love them for their daily use.
Water bottle sales are a creative option in the category of most profitable fundraising ideas for schools, especially for schools looking to go green.
School Calendars
School calendars are more than just a way to stay organized—they’re a way to showcase your school community.
Design a calendar featuring student artwork, photos of school events, or even fun facts about the school’s history.
Families will appreciate the personal touch, and every purchase supports your school’s programs.
Not sure how to raise funds? Check out our detailed guide on Practical Tips For Successful School Fundraising.
Food-Related Fundraisers
Pancake Breakfast
Start the day with a warm and inviting pancake breakfast in the school cafeteria.
For a small donation, parents, teachers, and students can enjoy a hearty meal together. Include options like fruit toppings, syrup, and even coffee to make it feel complete.
This simple event often ranks among the most profitable PTO fundraisers because it brings people together and doesn’t require a lot of resources to organize.
Chili Cook-Off
Spice things up with a chili cook-off!
Invite parents, teachers, and even students to showcase their best recipes. Charge a fee for participants to taste and vote for their favorite chili or sell individual servings.
Add sides like cornbread or drinks to boost your earnings.
Bake Sale
A bake sale is a timeless favorite for a reason. Ask families to donate homemade treats like cookies, cakes, or brownies, then set up a table at a school event or busy location.
To keep things fresh, you can also include gluten-free or themed goodies.
Bake sales consistently rank as one of the most profitable fundraisers for schools because they’re easy to run and loved by all ages.
Pizza Night
Partner with a local pizzeria to host a school pizza night.
The restaurant donates a percentage of the evening’s sales to the school, and families enjoy a delicious dinner without any prep work.
Let students hand out flyers or promote the event online to make it even more engaging.
Pop-Up Café
Transform part of your school into a cozy café for a day. Serve coffee, tea, and pastries donated by families or local businesses.
Set up tables with a relaxing atmosphere to encourage people to stay and chat.
Food Truck Night
Bring local food trucks to your school parking lot for an evening filled with delicious options and community vibes.
Charge the vendors a participation fee, and let them handle the cooking while you focus on getting families to attend.
Add live music or a few student performances to keep the atmosphere lively.
Ice Cream Social
Create a build-your-own sundae station or serve cones filled with classic flavors for a fun and refreshing gathering.
Parents, teachers, and students can enjoy the casual event while supporting your school.
A small fee for each serving, combined with donated ice cream and toppings, ensures a great return.
Soup Night
Turn your school cafeteria into a cozy spot for a soup night. Ask families or local restaurants to donate different soups and sell tickets for a bowl or unlimited tastings.
Include bread, crackers, and drinks to round out the meal.
Soup nights are ideal during colder months and consistently land on the list of most profitable fundraising ideas for schools for their low cost and community-building appeal.
BBQ Fundraiser
Fire up the grill and let the aroma of barbecue draw a crowd.
Serve classic items like hot dogs and hamburgers, or offer something special like pulled pork or kebabs.
Sell combo plates with sides like baked beans or potato salad to increase sales.
Candy Bar Fundraiser
Candy bars are a timeless way to fundraise, and they’re easy for students to sell to friends, family, and neighbors.
Work with a supplier to get a mix of popular options or create custom-wrapped bars featuring your school’s logo.
Since candy bars are affordable and have universal appeal, this idea remains a favorite among school fundraisers.
Eco-Friendly Fundraisers
Plant Sale
Green up your school and your community with a plant sale. Offer a mix of flowers, vegetables, and easy-to-care-for indoor plants.
Set up a pre-order system or host the sale during a school event for maximum participation.
Recycling Drive
Turn trash into treasure with a recycling drive.
Collect cans, bottles, or old electronics from families and the local community. Partner with a recycling company that pays for these items, and you’ve got a simple and sustainable way to raise funds.
Recycling drives are often considered one of the most profitable fundraisers for schools because they’re environmentally friendly and cost almost nothing to organize.
Upcycled Craft Sale
Showcase creativity with an upcycled craft sale. Ask students, parents, and teachers to create handmade items using recycled materials, like tote bags made from old t-shirts or pencil holders made from tin cans.
Sell the crafts at a school fair or community event.
This fundraiser promotes sustainability and is a favorite among the most profitable PTO fundraisers because of its unique and personal touch.
Compost Kit Sale
Help families start their composting journey by selling DIY compost kits.
Include items like a small bin, starter materials, and simple instructions for beginners. Promote the kits as a way to reduce food waste and help the environment.
Compost kit sales fit perfectly in the category of eco-friendly fundraisers and continue to grow in popularity.
Reusable Bag Sales
Reusable bags are a practical and eco-friendly choice for fundraising.
Design the bags with your school’s logo or a fun, student-created pattern to make them stand out.
Offer them during school events or through an online order form.
Service-Based Fundraisers
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Car Wash
A few buckets of soapy water and a sunny day can become a fantastic fundraiser.
Students can wash cars in the school parking lot, and drivers can donate any amount they wish. For an extra touch, offer upgrades like tire cleaning or windshield polishing.
Car washes have remained one of the most profitable fundraising ideas for schools because they’re simple and always draw a crowd.
Yard Work Services
Why not bring fundraising right to your community’s doorstep?
Students can offer yard work services like leaf raking, lawn mowing, or garden weeding for a fee.
This idea helps raise funds and teaches students about responsibility and teamwork.
Babysitting Night
Sometimes, parents just need a break. Offer a babysitting night at the school where parents can drop off their kids for a few hours.
Organize games, crafts, and snacks to keep the little ones entertained while adults enjoy their evening.
Babysitting nights are often included in lists of the most profitable fundraisers for schools because they provide a service that families genuinely appreciate.
Gift Wrapping Service
During the holiday season, a gift-wrapping service can make life a little easier for busy families.
Set up a station at a shopping mall, community center, or school event, and charge a small fee for each item wrapped.
Offer a variety of paper and ribbon choices to match the festive mood..
Pet Wash
For a fun and unique fundraiser, host a pet wash.
Set up an area where students can wash and towel-dry dogs (or even cats if they’re cooperative!).
Provide pet-safe shampoos and brushes to ensure a comfortable experience for the animals.
Art and Creativity Fundraisers
Art Auction
Turn your students’ creativity into a fundraising opportunity by hosting an art auction.
Have students create original pieces—paintings, sculptures, or even digital art—and invite parents, teachers, and community members to bid.
To make it even more special, display the art in a gallery-style setup before the auction begins.
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Photography Sessions
Offer family photo sessions as a fundraiser by partnering with a local photographer or talented parent.
Set up a backdrop or use outdoor locations to capture memorable shots. Families can book time slots for a flat fee, and the proceeds will support the school.
Photography fundraisers are a unique option among the most profitable pto fundraisers because they give families something they’ll cherish for years.
Craft Night
Host a craft night where families can learn fun DIY projects like making wreaths, ornaments, or painted flower pots.
Charge a fee that includes all materials and let participants take home their creations.
To make it even more engaging, invite local artists or parents with crafting skills to guide the projects.
Handmade Jewelry Sale
Showcase student talent by organizing a handmade jewelry sale.
Have students and volunteers create bracelets, necklaces, or earrings using affordable materials.
Set up a display during a school event or sell the pieces online.
Paint Night
A paint night is a fun way to raise funds while encouraging creativity.
Hire an instructor or use a talented volunteer to guide participants through painting a simple, themed artwork.
Charge a flat fee for the session, which includes supplies like canvases and paints.
Seasonal Fundraisers
Pumpkin Patch
Set up a pumpkin patch on campus to bring families together during the fall season.
Work with a local farm to provide pumpkins in various sizes and create a festive atmosphere with hay bales and photo opportunities.
To add a little extra fun, consider offering pumpkin carving demonstrations or a small craft station.
Easter Egg Hunt
Host a lively Easter egg hunt on the school grounds. Let kids enjoy the thrill of finding eggs filled with small toys or candy.
Charge a participation fee and include activities like sack races or egg decorating to keep everyone engaged.
Adding a bake sale or a raffle can boost your earnings.
Christmas Tree Sale
Transform your school into a winter wonderland by selling Christmas trees.
Partner with a local farm to bring fresh trees to your community. Offer add-ons like wreaths or tree stands to increase sales, and consider hosting the sale during a holiday event to draw a larger crowd.
Christmas tree sales are among the most profitable fundraising ideas for schools since they provide a practical product that families need during the holidays.
Valentine’s Day Grams
Deliver a little joy with Valentine’s Day grams.
Students and parents can purchase small gifts like flowers, chocolates, or notes to be delivered during school hours.
Offer customizable options to make each gram feel personal and special.
Spring Fling Festival
Bring the community together with a spring fling festival filled with activities like carnival games, a petting zoo, or even a pie-eating contest.
Charge for entry or sell tickets for individual activities to give families flexibility. Include a variety of food options and student performances to keep the event lively.
Spring festivals are a great choice for most profitable PTO fundraisers, as they cater to all age groups and create lasting memories.
Competition-Based Fundraisers
Spelling Bee
Organize a spelling bee that brings out the competitive spirit in students while raising funds for your school.
Charge a small entry fee for participants and invite families to watch.
Offer prizes like certificates or gift cards to the top spellers. Spelling bees are educational, engaging, and simple to organize.
Lip Sync Battle
Let students and teachers show off their performance skills with a lip sync battle. Set up a stage, charge admission for spectators, and let the performers bring the fun.
You can even add a voting system where the audience donates to vote for their favorite act.
Cooking Competition
Host a cooking competition where students, parents, or teachers showcase their culinary skills.
It could be a bake-off with sweet treats or a chili cook-off with savory dishes.
Charge an entry fee for contestants and sell tasting tickets for attendees.
Fitness Challenge
Encourage health and fundraising at the same time with a fitness challenge.
Participants set fitness goals like completing a certain number of laps, push-ups, or minutes of exercise and gather pledges for their efforts.
This fundraiser often ranks among the most profitable fundraising ideas for schools because it requires minimal costs while engaging the entire community.
Talent vs. Teachers Game
Plan a friendly competition where students face off against teachers in a game like basketball, volleyball, or even trivia.
Sell tickets for spectators and add extras like concessions or halftime raffles.
The playful rivalry makes this event a highlight of the year, drawing in large crowds eager to cheer for their team.
Online Fundraisers
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Social Media Challenges
Create a fun and shareable social media challenge that encourages donations.
Think about fitness goals, quirky tasks, or community activities, and ask participants to tag others to keep the challenge going.
Add a simple donation link for supporters to contribute. It is one of the most profitable fundraising ideas for schools because it combines creativity with the power of online engagement.
Virtual Classes
Turn expertise within your school community into a source of funds.
Offer online classes like painting, yoga, or even basic coding sessions taught by skilled teachers or parents.
Charge a fee for registration and let participants learn something new while supporting the school.
E-Book Sales
Showcase your school’s creativity by creating an e-book.
It could include student art, family recipes, or even a guide to fun local activities. Sell the e-book on your school website or through an online platform.
E-books are a smart choice for schools looking for innovative ways to raise funds, as they highlight community talent and provide something unique to buyers.
School Community-Centric Ideas
Read-a-Thon
Students can raise funds while reading their favorite books through a read-a-thon.
Each participant collects pledges based on the number of books or chapters they complete. Add excitement by setting school-wide goals and celebrating top readers.
Read-a-thons remain one of the most profitable fundraisers for schools because they encourage learning and cost almost nothing to organize.
Principal Challenge
What if the principal agreed to a fun and respectful dare—like wearing a silly hat for a day, reading a story in costume to the entire school, or taking part in a talent show—if a fundraising goal was reached?
A principal challenge brings positive energy to the entire school community, motivating students and families to contribute.
These lighthearted yet engaging events are popular choices for PTO fundraisers because they’re inclusive, entertaining, and create lasting memories.
Used Uniform Sale
Every family loves a good deal, and a used uniform sale can provide just that. Collect outgrown but wearable uniforms from families and sell them at a reduced price.
It’s a practical fundraiser that helps families save money while supporting the school.
These sales are often among the most practical fundraisers, as they address a real need in the school community.
Homework Pass Sale
Give students a chance to skip one homework assignment by offering homework passes for sale.
Teachers can set rules for when the passes are valid, ensuring it’s manageable.
This creative option is among the most profitable fundraisers for schools, as it’s simple to organize and gives students something they’ll genuinely enjoy.
High-Profit Quick Ideas
Photo Booth
Imagine the fun of a themed photo booth at your next school event.
Set up a booth with props like funny hats, costumes, and silly signs, and charge a fee for each photo.
You could even partner with a local photographer or use instant cameras for quick prints.
Donation Jar Competition
What if every class had a donation jar, and the goal was to see which one could collect the most?
Students bring in spare change, and the class with the heaviest jar wins a small prize, like a pizza party or an extra recess.
These competitions are always exciting and are considered one of the most effective fundraisers, thanks to their simplicity and the friendly rivalry they create.
Board Game Lending Library
Here’s a fundraiser that can run year-round. Start a board game lending library where families can rent games for a weekend or special occasion.
Offer classics like Monopoly and Scrabble, as well as newer games to keep things fresh.
Charging a small fee per rental makes this one of the most profitable fundraisers for schools, and it promotes family bonding without requiring a big event.
Penny Wars
Penny wars are a fun, competitive fundraiser where each class collects pennies for positive points while using other coins or bills to reduce points in rival jars.
Students drop coins into their own jars to build points and “sabotage” other classes by adding nickels, dimes, or bills, subtracting from other's totals.
Jars are placed in a central spot, with regular updates to keep excitement high. At the end, points are tallied to crown the winning class, which gets a small prize like extra recess or a party.

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