How Businesses Can Increase Foot Traffic Through Fundraisers

Every local business wants the same thing: more people through the door. And one of the most underused ways to get them is partnering with local fundraisers.

Here's how the maths works — and how to make it work for you.

Vouchers bring committed customers

When someone buys a voucher for your business, they've already decided to visit. They've paid in advance, so they'll show up — and they'll often spend more than the voucher is worth. A $50 voucher redeemed against an $80 meal is a $30 bonus sale. The voucher isn't a discount you gave away; it's a customer you bought.

Fundraisers introduce you to new people

The people buying your vouchers aren't just your regulars. They're the school's parents, the club's supporters, the wider community — many of whom have never been in your shop. One campaign can put your business in front of hundreds of new local faces, with a reason to visit.

How to run a foot-traffic fundraiser

1. Offer a voucher people want to use. Your signature product or service, at a clear value.
2. Set a sensible wholesale price. You decide what you receive per sale — it should cover your costs and still be attractive.
3. Choose your share. Fundraisers keep at least 10% of each sale; a higher share can make your offer stand out.
4. Make redemption easy. Clear terms, a decent window, and friendly staff who say "welcome — great choice".
5. Track where they came from. Ask at the counter — "was this from the school fundraiser?" — and you'll learn exactly what works.

Turn one visit into loyalty

The real value isn't the voucher redemption; it's what happens after. A first-time customer who has a great experience becomes a regular. That's why the fundamentals matter: greet them, serve them well, and make sure the voucher experience feels like a treat, not a transaction.

A few honest caveats

Vouchers work best when you're ready for the rush — don't offer more than you can serve well. Set redemption dates that suit your quiet periods if you want to fill gaps rather than create queues. And remember that the fundraiser's community is watching how you treat their supporters; the goodwill payoff depends on the experience.

The wider benefit

Beyond the immediate foot traffic, you gain something longer-lasting: a reputation as a business that supports local causes. In small communities, that reputation is currency. Supporters remember which businesses helped — and they choose them again and again.

A fundraiser partnership isn't a donation. It's one of the most effective pieces of local marketing you'll ever run.