7 Surprising Places to Find New Donors (That You're Overlooking)

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7 Surprising Places to Find New Donors (That You're Overlooking)

Finding new donors can feel like an uphill battle, but what if you’re sitting on hidden opportunities? Many fundraisers overlook some of the best places to find new supporters. The good news? You don’t have to look far—your next major donor might be closer than you think!

Here are seven surprising places to find new donors and how to take action today.

1. Your Current Donors' Networks

Your existing donors already believe in your mission. Chances are, they know others who would too!

Action Item: Start a simple referral campaign. Ask your donors, “Who else do you know that might want to learn about our mission?” Provide an easy way for them to introduce you, like a shareable email template or a special event where they can bring a friend.

2. Your Social Media Followers (Even the Quiet Ones!)

Not everyone who follows you on social media is already donating—but they’re interested. Some just need a little nudge.

Action Item: Post a direct invitation for followers to become first-time donors. Try a message like: “If you’ve been following our work and believe in what we do, now is the perfect time to make your first gift!” Make donating easy with a direct link.

3. Local Businesses (Especially Small Ones!)

Many small business owners are looking for ways to give back but aren’t on the radar of major charities.

Action Item: Identify 10-20 small businesses in your area that align with your mission. Reach out personally, offering a way they can make an impact—like sponsoring a project, donating a percentage of sales, or matching employee gifts.

4. Churches & Faith-Based Groups

Even if you’re not a faith-based nonprofit, many churches and faith communities are eager to support good causes.

Action Item: Contact local pastors, small group leaders, or mission committees. Ask if you can share your story at a service or small group meeting. If you are a missionary, offer to visit and build a personal connection with the congregation.

5. Volunteer Groups & Past Volunteers

People who give their time are often open to giving financially—but they might not realize the need.

Action Item: Send a personalized email or call past volunteers, thanking them for their time and sharing how they can take their impact further by donating. Offer a small, meaningful giving opportunity (e.g., “$25 covers a meal for a homeless family”).

6. Networking Events & Professional Groups

Chambers of commerce, Rotary clubs, and professional networking groups are full of potential donors who care about making a difference.

Action Item: Attend a local business networking event and introduce yourself as someone working for a cause. Be ready with a quick, compelling story about your mission. Follow up afterward with a personal invitation to get involved.

7. Your Own Email List (Yes, Really!)

If you have an email list but aren’t actively asking for donations, you’re leaving money on the table.

Action Item: Create a simple three-email campaign:

  1. Storytelling Email – Share a moving story of impact.
  2. Invitation to Give – Make a clear ask with a simple giving link.
  3. Follow-Up – Remind them of the opportunity and share another short impact story.

Final Thoughts

New donors are closer than you think—you just need to be intentional about finding them. Start by picking one or two places from this list and taking action this week. The more you put yourself (and your mission) out there, the more support you’ll attract!

Where have you found surprising new donors? Share your experiences in the comments!

💡 Want more tips to grow your donor base and fundraise with confidence? Visit my website for free resources and expert fundraising strategies: https://website.beacons.ai/caseyjones.

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