School fundraising leaders like you juggle a lot, from coordinating volunteers to keeping students engaged, all while making sure your fundraiser is both fun and profitable. When it comes to brochure fundraising, the number of options available can feel overwhelming.
Which catalog will work best for your school? How do you know what your community will actually buy?

The good news is that with the right approach, you can choose a brochure fundraiser that fits your school’s needs, energizes your community, and maximizes your results. At Gifts ‘N Things, we have helped countless schools simplify the process with tailored, easy-to-run programs that work.

This article will walk you through a clear, step-by-step way to evaluate fundraiser brochure options so you can make a confident choice that sets you up for success.

Table of Contents

• What are Fundraiser Brochures and why do they work?
• How do you understand your audience’s preferences?
• What product variety should you look for?
• Why do brochure design and presentation matter?
• How do pricing and value affect your success?
• Should you consider online fundraiser brochure options?
• How can you test and evaluate your fundraiser before committing?
• What support should you expect from your fundraising provider?
• Putting it all together: Making your final decision
• Turning Planning Into Fundraising Success with Gifts ‘N Things
• FAQs

What Are Fundraiser Brochures and Why Do They work?

Fundraiser brochures are one of the most popular school fundraising methods. Students and volunteers sell products from a printed or digital catalog, and the school earns a percentage of each sale.

It works because it has broad appeal, offers low upfront costs, makes participation easy for families, and has strong profit potential. Most schools can expect to earn between 30 and 50 percent profit depending on the program they choose.

How Do You Understand Your Audience’s Preferences?

Before choosing a brochure, it is important to think about who you are selling to. The best fundraiser is the one your community genuinely wants to support. Consider what types of products fit your local tastes. For example, some communities respond well to gourmet food items while others prefer holiday gifts or practical everyday products.

Timing also plays a role. A fall fundraiser might benefit from holiday-themed items, while a spring fundraiser could be better suited for garden products or sweet treats. Cultural relevance matters too. Products that reflect community traditions tend to sell better.
Gather feedback from parents, teachers, and students, or review past sales data to identify which items have been the most popular.

What Product Variety Should You Look For?

The more variety you offer, the more likely you are to appeal to different tastes and budgets. The catalog should include a balance of lower-priced items for casual buyers, mid-range products for families, and premium offerings for those looking to spend more.

Themed collections, such as holiday gifts, kitchenware, or gourmet snacks, make shopping easy and enjoyable. Products that are great for gifting can also help supporters purchase for friends and family, increasing the total sales.

Why Do Brochure Design and Presentation Matter?

Even a great product selection can fall flat if the brochure is cluttered or difficult to read. A successful brochure is visually appealing, easy to navigate, and clearly communicates product details and prices.

Clear, vibrant images help products stand out. Descriptions should be simple and concise, and items should be grouped logically to make shopping intuitive. Digital brochures can also enhance accessibility, allowing families to shop from their phone or computer and share the fundraiser with friends and relatives outside the local area.

How Do Pricing and Value Affect Your Success?

Pricing is key to balancing participation and profitability. Items that are too expensive can turn buyers away, while those that are too inexpensive may not generate enough profit. The goal is to offer affordable entry points alongside premium products.

Perceived value is equally important. Families are more willing to support a fundraiser when they feel the products are worth the price. Quality items that deliver on expectations encourage repeat purchases year after year.

Should You Consider Online Fundraising Brochure Options?

Yes, especially if you want to expand your reach. Online brochure fundraising allows supporters to shop from anywhere, making it easier for friends and family in different locations to participate.

Online ordering also streamlines payment processing and delivery, reducing administrative tasks for your fundraising team. Many programs include real-time tracking so you can monitor progress and adjust your strategy as needed.

How Can You Test and Evaluate Your Fundraiser Before Committing?

Before launching your campaign, request sample brochures or view a full online catalog. Compare profit margins, shipping terms, and any available prize programs. If possible, pilot the fundraiser with a smaller group to see how the community responds before committing to a full rollout.

What Support Should You Eexpect From Your Fundraising Provider?

A strong partner can make your fundraiser more successful and less stressful. Look for a provider that supplies easy-to-use brochures, clear instructions for organizers, and engaging incentive programs for students. Responsive customer service is essential to answer questions quickly and resolve any challenges that come up.

Gifts ‘N Things offers everything you need to run a smooth, profitable fundraiser, from step-by-step manuals to prize programs that keep students motivated.