Where to Find Free or Cheap Raffle Prizes

Running a raffle can be a great way to engage your audience, but it can also be a challenge to find prizes that are fun and cost-effective.

Fortunately, there are lots of ways to source great raffle prizes without draining the budget – from small local businesses and nonprofits to thrift stores and even repurposing items you already have.

Contact Local Businesses

A great way to find unique and interesting prizes for your raffle is to contact local businesses and if you’re looking to get raffle prizes , here are some tips to help you out:

1. Start with small businesses: Small businesses are often more willing to donate to community events and fundraisers. Look for businesses in your local area that align with the theme of your raffle or event.
2. Make it easy for them: Provide businesses with all the information they need to make a decision quickly and easily. Include information about your event, the cause it supports, and how the business will be recognised for its donation.
3. Offer publicity: Many businesses are willing to donate in exchange for exposure. Offer to include their logo on promotional materials or mention them on social media and at the event.
4. Be clear about your goals: Explain how the raffle will benefit the community and the cause it supports. Show businesses how their donation will make a difference.
5. Follow-up: If a business agrees to donate, be sure to follow up with them to confirm the details and express your gratitude. Send a thank-you note after the event to show your appreciation and keep them in mind for future events.

Many are eager to help out charities and organisations and may be willing to donate items or gift certificates as prizes. Consider approaching restaurants, stores, tech companies, event venues, etc. for discounts or donations. Reach out to different types of businesses in your area and ask what they’d be willing to offer for your event.

Ask Vendors for Donations

Vendors, especially suppliers in your own industry, often like to support charities and would be glad to donate items that can be used as raffle prizes.

Ask them if they have any promotional items or swag that they are willing to part with. Some may even provide a special discount for bulk orders or offer gift cards instead of tangible goods.

Regardless of what you get in the end, it’s always better than shelling out cash for each prize.

Use What You Already Have

You don’t need to go out and buy new items for your prize pool.

Check your stockroom or inventory, look around the office, or search around your own home – you might be surprised at how many items you can find.

If they are still in great condition, advertise those as part of your raffle prize list. Everybody loves to get something for free (or nearly free).

Consider Reusable Prizes or Gift Certificates

Reusable prizes like sports equipment, camping gear and books will not only help you save money but are also great for the environment.

Consider giving out gift cards or certificates instead of physical items as these can often be found at a reduced price. You could also encourage your attendees to bring their own reusable products (e.g., coffee mugs or notebooks) as raffle prizes.

This way, everyone wins a prize that they can make use of in their day-to-day lives!

Cash Raffle Prize Example – First Nations Lotto