Fundraisers That Make the Most Money (and are the Most Fun!)

When you’re trying to raise serious funds for your school, a simple bake sale just isn’t going to cut it. You need something BIG. Something that gets your students and families excited to participate. Something that actually works.

If you’re looking for fundraisers that make the most money, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve rounded up the top four school fundraisers that consistently bring in big bucks and big smiles. Plus— check out our tips to help you pull off your next fundraiser like a pro and the different ways a school fundraising company like Boosterthon can help!

1. Host an epic Fun Run.

Fun runs are one of the fundraisers that make the most money—and they’ve earned their spot as a school fundraising staple. Students raise money by collecting pledges per lap or flat donations, then take part in an exciting day full of running, cheering, music, and fun. It’s a memorable experience your students and community will remember for years to come!

Why It Works:
It’s simple, active, and school-wide. Every student can participate, regardless of athletic ability, and it builds real school spirit.

Do It Like a Pro:

• Use an online fundraising platform to keep pledges organized and save valuable time.

• Offer prizes and incentives to keep students motivated.

• Get local sponsors involved to cover event costs.

2. Bring the “wow” with a Color Run.

Add a pop of color (literally) to your fun run! In a color run, students get splashed with bright bursts of powder as they make their way through the course, making it an unforgettable—and highly shareable—experience.

Why It Works:
It’s visual, exciting, and perfect for outdoor fun. Plus, it creates photo-worthy moments families love.

Do It Like a Pro:

• Order safe, non-toxic color powder.

• Create fun color stations and have volunteers toss powder along the route.

• Encourage students to wear glasses or bandanas and clothing they don’t mind getting “colorized.”

3. Light up your gym with a Glow Run.

Need an indoor or weather-proof option? A glow run transforms your school gym into a glowing party zone with black lights, music, and tons of neon fun.

Why It Works:
It’s unique, memorable, and works well for evening events or indoor spaces.

Do It Like a Pro:

• Use glow sticks, black lights, and neon tape to create a glowing course.

• Bring in a speaker and build an upbeat playlist to create a party vibe.

• Ask students to wear neon or white clothing that will “glow” under black lights.

4. Throw a DanceFit party.

DanceFit gets students moving with guided dance routines that mix fitness and fun. It’s high-energy, low-prep, and perfect for indoor spaces or younger grades.

Why It Works:
No running shoes required! DanceFit is inclusive and easy to adapt for any age group or ability.

Do It Like a Pro:

• • Use fun, kid-friendly workout videos to lead the routines.

  • Add dress-up days or class challenges to build excitement.

  • Share progress with parents and celebrate milestones.

Need Help Bringing It All to Life?

While these events can absolutely be run in-house, many schools find that partnering with a trusted fundraising company like Boosterthon helps maximize impact—especially when you’re aiming for fundraisers that make the most money without burning out your volunteers.

Boosterthon offers flexible support—from full-service event planning and on-campus hype teams to customizable online fundraising platforms and prize programs. Whether you want to hand off the heavy lifting or just need a few extra tools, they can help your school raise more, engage more families, and create unforgettable memories along the way.

Ready to learn more about how Boosterthon can customize a plan to fit your needs? Contact us today!