How-to: Run a Charity Raffle or Sweepstakes on an Organization's Behalf

Run a Raffle or Sweepstakes for a charity or nonprofit organization you aren't directly affiliated with.

Raffles and Sweepstakes are a great way to raise money for a cause, but come with some legal requirements that the beneficiary organization is responsible for following. Because of this, the organization you’re raising money for will need to be registered with RallyUp so they can oversee the Campaign and receive the funds. 

Before You Begin

  • Online Raffles are prohibited in Alabama, California, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana (Raffle entry purchases by credit card are prohibited), New Jersey, Rhode Island, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin. If the organization you’re fundraising for is located in one of these states, consider running a Sweepstakes instead. 
  • If the organization is domiciled in New Zealand, you won’t be able to run your Raffle online.

Step 1: Contact the Organization 

Start by reaching out to the organization you want to support and let them know about the Raffle or Sweepstakes you'd like to run on their behalf. (If you’ve already done this, skip to Step 2). 

Here are some details you’ll want to share with them: 

  • Your name and contact information 
  • The prize(s) you will give away and their value 
  • How you will conduct and promote the Raffle/Sweepstakes 

If the organization approves your request, you’re ready to move ahead to Step 2. If the organization does not approve your request, remember that the reason is likely due to legal restrictions. The organization may not be qualified to run an online Raffle/Sweepstakes or may have restrictions on how many they can run per year.

Step 2: Provide Instructions for Registering the Organization on RallyUp and Adding You as an Advocate

The organization will first need to register on RallyUp if they haven’t already. Then, they’ll need to invite you as an Advocate so you can set up the fundraiser. You’ll want to send them links to these instructions to help them get started: 

How-to: Get Started by Creating an Account and Registering Your Organization

How-to: Allow Supporters to Fundraise for Your Organization

You’ll receive an invitation via email when the organization has registered and added you as an Advocate. Once you accept that invitation, you’ll be ready to start creating your Raffle or Sweepstakes, and the funds you raise will automatically go directly to the organization.

Keep in touch with your contact at the organization throughout the fundraiser. Remember that they need to be aware of any major changes to your Campaign or promotional strategy. While you are generously donating your time to set up and manage the fundraiser, they are ultimately responsible for the legal compliance and reporting requirements. 

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