Introduction
A successful fundraiser often depends on the quality of its raffle prizes, and securing those prizes begins with a well-crafted raffle donation request. Schools, sports teams, nonprofits, churches, and community organizations rely on raffle events to raise money—yet businesses receive hundreds of requests every month. In November 2025, competition is higher than ever, meaning your raffle donation request must be clear, professional, concise, and compelling. This guide explains how to write a powerful raffle donation request that increases your approval rate and strengthens community support.
Why a Strong Raffle Donation Request Matters
A polished raffle donation request helps organizations:
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Receive valuable prizes
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Reduce fundraising costs
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Build strong relationships with businesses
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Boost community involvement
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Increase total raffle revenue
A professional raffle donation request stands out among the many poorly written or incomplete requests businesses receive.
What to Include in a Raffle Donation Request
✔ 1. Clear Introduction
Introduce your organization briefly.
Example:
“We are a local middle school raising funds for student programs.”
A strong introduction sets the tone for a successful raffle donation request.
✔ 2. Purpose of the Fundraiser
Businesses want to know how their contribution will help.
Explain your event in 2–3 lines.
Example:
“Our raffle will support classroom technology upgrades.”
Purpose is a critical element of every raffle donation request.
✔ 3. Exact Donation Needed
Vague messaging hurts your chances.
Be specific, such as:
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“We are requesting a $25 gift card.”
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“We are requesting product donations for a raffle basket.”
Specificity is essential for a strong raffle donation request.
✔ 4. Event Details
Include:
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Event date
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Expected attendance
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Who benefits
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How the prize will be used
These details build trust in your raffle donation request.
✔ 5. Proof of Legitimacy
Attach one or more of the following:
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Nonprofit/501(c)(3) letter
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School verification
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Event flyer
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Organization website/social links
Businesses approve raffle donation request submissions faster when documentation is included.
✔ 6. Recognition Plan
Explain how you will thank or promote the business:
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Social media tags
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Printed logos
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Event announcements
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Sponsor banners
Recognition increases approval rates for any raffle donation request.
Where to Send Your Raffle Donation Request
Here are the top categories of businesses that respond well:
✔ Restaurants
Many chains and local spots donate gift cards.
✔ Retail Stores
Target, Walmart, Costco, and Kohl’s are top choices for a raffle donation request.
✔ Entertainment Venues
Movie theaters, bowling alleys, and trampoline parks often approve donation applications.
✔ Local Small Businesses
Salons, bakeries, and boutiques love supporting community fundraisers.
These are among the best places to send a raffle donation request.
Tips to Increase Approval Rates
Improve your raffle donation request with these strategies:
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Keep the message short and friendly
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Send requests 4–8 weeks before your event
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Use proper grammar and formatting
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Personalize the request for each business
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Follow the business’s online donation rules
A polished raffle donation request shows professionalism and increases trust.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid the following mistakes:
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Long, unstructured messages
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No documentation
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Asking too close to the event
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Sending the same message to every business
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Not offering recognition
Avoiding these errors dramatically improves the success of your raffle donation request.
Conclusion
In November 2025, submitting a strong, professional raffle donation request is essential for securing high-value prizes that make your fundraiser successful. By writing clear requests, personalizing messages, including documentation, and offering recognition, you increase your chances of approval and build lasting partnerships with local businesses. With the right approach, your raffle donation request can help you create a raffle event that excites donors and raises significant revenue.
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