What Are the Best Fundraising Strategies for a New Charity in Canada?

Starting a new charity is a big step toward making a difference in your community or beyond. But once you’ve set up your charity, the next challenge is raising enough funds to keep your operations running and make an impact. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your fundraising efforts, it’s important to implement strategies that will engage donors and sustain your charity’s mission.

This article will explore the best fundraising strategies for new charities in Canada. We’ll cover proven methods that will help you raise funds effectively and build strong relationships with your supporters.

1. Understand Your Charity’s Mission and Vision

Before you begin fundraising, it’s essential to be clear about your charity’s mission and vision. This foundation will guide all of your efforts. A strong, clear message about why your charity exists and what it aims to achieve is key to attracting potential donors.

Mission Statement: Keep it short, clear, and impactful. Your mission should quickly convey the problem you are addressing and the change you aim to create.
Vision: This is where you describe the long-term impact of your charity’s work. It shows potential donors why their contributions matter in the bigger picture.

When your mission and vision are well-defined, it becomes easier to communicate the value of your charity to others, which can inspire people to contribute.

2. Online Crowdfunding Campaigns

Online crowdfunding is one of the most effective fundraising strategies for new charities in Canada. With the rise of digital platforms, it’s now easier than ever to reach a wide audience, tell your charity’s story, and raise funds.

Choose the Right Platform: There are various crowdfunding platforms available in Canada, such as GoFundMe, CanadaHelps, and Kickstarter. Each platform has its strengths, so pick the one that aligns best with your charity’s goals.
Set Clear Goals: Be transparent about how much you need to raise and how the funds will be used. People are more likely to donate when they can see the direct impact of their contribution.
Engage Your Network: Reach out to your network of friends, family, and community members to share the campaign. Social media, email newsletters, and word of mouth are powerful tools for spreading the word.

Crowdfunding can help you reach a wide audience, but it requires careful planning and constant promotion to be successful.

3. Host Fundraising Events

Hosting events is a classic yet powerful way to raise funds while also engaging your community. Whether virtual or in-person, events allow you to directly interact with your supporters and make them feel part of your cause.

Plan Your Event: Choose an event that resonates with your target audience. This could be a gala, auction, benefit concert, or community walk. The key is to offer something that excites and motivates people to donate.
Ticket Sales and Donations: You can sell tickets to the event, provide opportunities for attendees to donate during the event, and even offer incentives for higher levels of giving (like VIP access or exclusive experiences).
Engage Sponsors: Many companies and local businesses are willing to sponsor charity events in exchange for publicity. This can significantly boost your fundraising efforts while keeping costs low.

Events also give you the chance to build long-term relationships with donors and volunteers, which can lead to future donations.

4. Launch a Monthly Giving Program

A monthly giving program is a great way to create a reliable source of income for your charity. This model allows donors to contribute a fixed amount each month, which provides your charity with steady, predictable funding.

Offer Different Tiers: Create giving levels to accommodate different budgets. For example, $10, $25, and $50 per month.
Provide Special Benefits: To encourage people to sign up, offer exclusive updates, reports on how their donations are making an impact or even small tokens of appreciation.
Highlight Convenience: Monthly giving is convenient for donors, and many are happy to set up an automatic payment because it fits into their routine. Make sure the sign-up process is easy.

This strategy not only helps build a stable income stream but also strengthens relationships with your donors by keeping them engaged year-round.

5. Apply for Grants and Government Funding

In Canada, there are numerous grant opportunities available for new charities. Federal, provincial, and municipal governments often offer funding programs to support causes that align with their priorities.

Research Available Grants: Start by looking into government grants and funding programs. Websites like the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and the Canadian Government’s Funding Portal are great places to start.
Write Compelling Proposals: Applying for grants involves submitting proposals that outline your charity’s mission, goals, and how you intend to use the funds. Make sure to follow all guidelines and deadlines to increase your chances of approval.
Look for Private Foundation Grants: Many private foundations also provide funding to charities. Research foundations that support causes similar to yours and apply for funding.

While grants can be a bit competitive, they are a great source of funding for specific projects and long-term initiatives.

6. Utilize Social Media for Awareness and Donations

Social media is a powerful tool that can help you spread the word about your charity and encourage donations. By using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn, you can reach a large audience and build a loyal online community.

Share Impact Stories: Post stories of how your charity is making a difference in people’s lives. This could be in the form of videos, photos, testimonials, or success stories.
Use Donation Buttons: Platforms like Facebook allow charities to add donation buttons directly to their profiles and posts, making it easy for followers to donate on the spot.
Run Paid Ads: If you have a budget, running paid ads on social media can help you target specific demographics and get your message in front of more people.

Regular engagement on social media can also help you build a loyal following that will support your charity over time.

7. Collaborate with Corporate Partners

Corporate partnerships can be a highly effective way for new charities to raise funds. Many companies in Canada are committed to supporting social causes and are willing to collaborate with charities through donations, sponsorships, and volunteer efforts.

Corporate Donations: Reach out to businesses for one-time donations or regular contributions. In return, they offer to feature their company on your website or at events as a sponsor.
Employee Giving Programs: Many companies have employee matching programs or payroll giving initiatives, where they match their employees’ charitable donations. Encourage your supporters to take advantage of these programs.
Event Sponsorships: Local businesses may be interested in sponsoring your fundraising events. In exchange for their sponsorship, offer them visibility and recognition during the event.

Corporate partnerships provide both financial support and credibility, which can enhance your charity’s reputation and outreach.

8. Offer Donor Recognition and Appreciation

Acknowledging your donors is crucial for building long-term relationships and encouraging repeat giving. When people feel appreciated, they are more likely to support your charity again in the future.

Thank You Notes: Send personalized thank you notes to donors, expressing your gratitude and explaining the impact of their donation.
Donor Recognition Programs: Recognize large or recurring donors through special mentions, certificates, or exclusive invitations to events. Publicly acknowledging their contributions can encourage others to give as well.
Transparency: Keep donors informed about how their money is being used. Regular updates about the progress of your charity’s work will build trust and loyalty.

When donors feel valued, they are more likely to continue supporting your charity in the future.

Fundraising for a new charity can seem like a daunting task, but by implementing the right strategies, you can build a strong foundation for sustainable growth. Whether through crowdfunding, events, or corporate partnerships, there are many ways to raise funds and engage with your supporters. The key is to be creative, transparent, and persistent.

By understanding your charity’s mission, setting clear goals, and utilizing multiple fundraising channels, you’ll be well on your way to building a successful and impactful charity in Canada.

Ready for better nonprofit reporting?

At Northfield & Associates, we have a team of professional bookkeepers and accountants to help your organization manage the books so that you can breeze through tax season.

GET IN TOUCH

What We Do!

We’re often asked by prospective clients what our Bookkeeping Service covers? People want to know what specific tasks we do, and what their responsibility is. This brief explainer page will answer that question. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but covers the most frequently asked questions.

Getting Started

Review your existing books for needed corrections or back-work
Chart of accounts setup or amendment
Assistance with setting up bank feeds
Limited assistance* with setting up payroll (QBO or Gusto only)
Your books brought current and reconciled if needed

Ongoing Monthly Bookkeeping

After-the-fact transaction recording
Post to general ledger
Post to other ledgers (as needed)
Bank account reconciliation
Monthly financial statements
Other bookkeeping services, as required
Best-practice bookkeeping advice and counsel

Year End

Assistance with 1099-NEC preparation*
Assistance with 1099-MISC preparation*
Year-end financial statements and period-end closing

What We Don’t Do

Pay bills

We do not offer bill-pay services at this time, nor do we manage Accounts Payable (AP) or Accounts Receivable (AR).

Payroll tax responsibility

Our bookkeepers can assist you in setting up your initial payroll service in QBO or Gusto. We are not responsible for entering payroll hours/salary, accruing payroll taxes, nor the transmittal of payroll taxes to the IRS or the state. Your full-service payroll provider (QBO, Gusto, or whatever other service a client uses) will be the responsible party for payroll and payroll tax compliance.

*Payroll deductions and benefits

We provide assistance with setting up a payroll account in either Quickbooks Online or Gusto, including entry of employee data. We do not assist in state registrations, benefits, or advise on deductions. Those service areas are provided directly by either QBO or Gusto.

Preparation of W2s

Similar to the last item, your full-service payroll provider (QBO/Gusto) is responsible for preparation of Form W2 for employees.

Sales tax reporting

For those nonprofits that sell taxable goods and/or services, your bookkeeper will assist in accounting for sales taxes collected and transmitted, but we do not prepare state sales tax reports.

Donation recording

We do not provide individual donation data entry into your neither your donor CRM nor Quickbooks Online, nor do we prepare year-end donor acknowledgements.

Administrative tasks

We cannot provide administrative services unrelated to our bookkeeping function.

Attend board meetings

Due to the constraints of time and distance, we are unable to be present, physically nor virtually, at a meeting of a client’s board of directors.*May incur additional fee per 1099-NEC or 1099-MISC.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or other professional advice. Readers should seek tailored legal advice in relation to their personal circumstances.

At Northfield & Associates our expert teams guidance on compliance requirements. Our team understands Canadian law and can help ensure your organization follows proper procedures.

Get professional support today

Email info@northfield.biz

Phone (416) 317-6806

Visit us https://www.northfield.biz/

Appointment Schedule your free consultation

To discuss your specific circumstances and receive expert assistance throughout the reinstatement process with our experienced legal team.

READY FOR BETTER NONPROFIT REPORTING?

At Northfield & Associates, we have a team of professional bookkeepers and accountants to help your organization manage the books so that you can breeze through tax season.

GET IN TOUCH

What We Do!

We’re often asked by prospective clients what our Bookkeeping service. People want to know what specific tasks we do, and what their responsibility is. This brief explainer page will answer that question. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but covers the most frequently asked questions.

Getting Started

Review your existing books for needed corrections or back-work
Chart of accounts setup or amendment
Assistance with setting up bank feeds
Limited assistance* with setting up payroll (QBO or Gusto only)
Your books brought current and reconciled if needed

Ongoing Monthly Bookkeeping

After-the-fact transaction recording
Post to general ledger
Post to other ledgers (as needed)
Bank account reconciliation
Monthly financial statements
Other bookkeeping services, as required
Best-practice bookkeeping advice and counsel

Year End

Assistance with 1099-NEC preparation*
Assistance with 1099-MISC preparation*
Year-end financial statements and period-end closing

What We Don’t Do

Pay bills

We do not offer bill-pay services at this time, nor do we manage Accounts Payable (AP) or Accounts Receivable (AR).

Payroll tax responsibility

*Payroll deductions and benefits

Preparation of W2s

Similar to the last item, your full-service payroll provider (QBO/Gusto) is responsible for preparation of Form W2 for employees.

Sales tax reporting

For those nonprofits that sell taxable goods and/or services, your bookkeeper will assist in accounting for sales taxes collected and transmitted, but we do not prepare state sales tax reports.

Donation recording

We do not provide individual donation data entry into your neither your donor CRM nor Quickbooks Online, nor do we prepare year-end donor acknowledgements.

Administrative tasks

We cannot provide administrative services unrelated to our bookkeeping function.

Attend board meetings

Let’s Collaborate & Make a Difference!

Partner with us to amplify your mission. Whether it’s Charity accounting, financial transparency, or strategic growth—we’re here to help you create meaningful impact. Let’s work together to build a better future!

Book a Call

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.

Working with Our Firm

In this evolving economic landscape, collaboration with our firm offers clients a strategic advantage. With Cambodia’s reform-driven investment environment and Canada’s expanding footprint in Southeast Asia, our team of experienced consultants and legal advisors provides tailored guidance to help businesses navigate cross-border opportunities. We focus in developing comprehensive legal strategies, structuring international partnerships, and ensuring compliance in emerging markets.

By leveraging our regional insight and international expertise, you benefit from a trusted partner dedicated to helping you capitalize on growth potential in Cambodia and beyond.

Book a Consultation with Northfield & Associates

Your Trusted Partner in International Bilateral Relations

At Northfield & Associates are focus in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), international trade missions, and cross-border legal strategy. Our team of experienced consultants and legal advisors offers tailored guidance and strategic insight to help you navigate the complexities of international partnerships and development opportunities.

Whether you choose to meet in person at one of our offices or connect virtually, we provide flexible and accessible consultation options. During your session, we’ll assess your goals, review key documentation, and guide you through every stage of your FDI or trade mission engagement.

Let us help you take the next step with confidence supported by trusted legal and strategic counsel every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.

Northfield & Associates

Advancing Global Partnerships, Together.

Take the First Step Today

If you believe you may be eligible for legal relief or simply need sound legal advice, we’re here to help. Contact us today to book your free consultation. Let us provide the clarity, strategy, and peace of mind you need to move forward.

We serve our clients in English, Cambodian, Vietnamese, Mandarin and Cantonese, especially in Asian clients.

If you or anybody that you know, think that you meet the requirements and wish to receive further information.
We can help you start the application process and confirm eligibility requirements to participate.
We Offer Consultations & Meetings by Phone & Virtually. Affordable Fees.

BOOK A CONSULTATION TODAY

Contact Northfield & Associates today to schedule a consultation with an experienced Consultant.

BOOK A CALL WITH A CONSULTATION

JOIN THE COMMUNITY OF NORTHFIELD & ASSOCIATES

Connect with peers and community ambassadors to hear real experiences, tips, and advice about studying abroad.

EXPLORE NORTHFIELD & ASSOCIATES COMMUNITY

CANADA IMMIGRATION CONSULTANTS

Northfield & Associates is a Canadian consulting firm based in Toronto, Canada. Northfield & Associates specializes in all types of immigration matters, from spousal sponsorships to refugee board appeals. With over eight (8) years of experience and an excellent success rate, Northfield & Associates is recognized as one of Canada’s premier immigration consulting firm.

HOW CAN WE HELP?

FREE IMMIGRATION ASSESSMENT

The purpose of the Free Assessment is to assess whether you are qualified to apply for permanent residence in Canada under the Family Sponsorship, Skilled Worker, or Business Class categories. Please choose which category you would like to be assessed under and complete all fields in the form. We will endeavor to complete your assessment and provide you with a reply within one business day. There is no charge for this service. All information provided will be kept strictly confidential. If our assessment indicates that you are qualified for immigration to Canada, we will contact you to provide further information about our services and fees. Start Your Immigration Application!

FREE ASSESSMENT FORM

How can we assist you today?

Unlocking the Potential of Those Who Advance the World

Learn more about our core areas of expertise

About Northfield

Northfield & Associates International Corporation is a global consulting firm serving private enterprises, public institutions, not-for-profit organizations, and institutional capital providers. Operating across Cambodia, Canada, and global markets, the firm supports capital deployment, regulatory navigation, and enterprise decision-making in complex economic and geopolitical environments. Northfield & Associates delivers customized, execution-focused advisory solutions that drive measurable transformation, strengthen competitiveness, and enhance long-term highest value opportunities. The firm incorporates consulting, legal, regulatory, financial, and risk expertise to enable disciplined capital allocation, strong governance, and operational resilience. Northfield & Associates upholds a culture of applied insight and innovation, supporting clients across digital transformation, growth strategy, and organizational capability building. The firm advises individual, leading global corporations, midsize enterprises, government agencies, and mission-driven organizations through long-term partnerships. Enterprise-wide risk management, professional ethics, and fiduciary standards are embedded across all operations. Northfield & Associates’ diverse, globally unified teams are committed to execution certainty and sustainable, risk-adjusted returns aligned with ESG and stakeholder objectives.

NORTHFIELD & ASSOCIATES in Canada

As a global consulting firm, Northfield & Associates helps clients with total transformation, driving complex change, enabling organizations to grow, and driving bottom-line impact.

Learn about our offices in Canada, read our latest thought leadership, and connect with our team.

Learn More

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking information. All statements, other than statements of historic fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future constitute forward-looking information.

This forward-looking information reflects the current expectations or beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company.

Forward-looking information is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking information, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on the Company. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things: the failure to finalize negotiations concerning the increase of the Loan or to close such transaction and the failure of the Company to complete the acquisition of the Company Facility; operating performance of facilities; environmental and safety risks; delays in obtaining or failure to obtain necessary permits and approvals from government authorities; unavailability of plant, equipment or labour; inability to retain key management and personnel; changes to regulations or policies affecting the Company’s activities; and the other risks disclosed under the heading “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Company’s amended annual information.

Forward-looking information speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking information are reasonable, forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such information due to the inherent uncertainty therein.

Questions?

info@northfied.biz

Within Corporate Newsroom

Media Contact:

media@northfied.biz

Press contact 

PR Secretary
press@northfied.biz

NOT LEGAL ADVICE. Information made available on this website in any form is for information purposes only. It is not, and should not be taken as, legal advice. You should not rely on, or take or fail to take any action based upon this information. Never disregard professional legal advice or delay in seeking legal advice because of something you have read on this website. Northfield & Associates professionals will be pleased to discuss resolutions to specific legal concerns you may have.