Email fundraising is one of the most powerful tools nonprofits can use to drive donations. On average, emails generate 14% of all online nonprofit revenue.
So, whether you're preparing for a virtual auction, a holiday appeal, or a last-minute campaign push, a well-written fundraising email can make the difference between meeting your goal and falling short.
Today, we’re sharing proven fundraising email templates along with seven essential writing tips to help you boost open rates, increase conversions, and connect with your supporters. Let’s help you raise more with less stress.
A single, strategic email can raise thousands in just hours. Nonprofit emails have an average open rate of 40.04%, which is higher than many other industries. That’s because nonprofit donors often feel emotionally connected to your mission and want to be involved.
Email also gives you something social media can’t always guarantee: a direct line to your supporters. No need to rely on algorithms and guesswork. It’s a reliable, cost-effective way to connect with the people who care about your cause, and it’s easy to personalize, track, and tweak as you go.
From auction item requests to virtual bidding promotions to fund-a-need drives, email should remain a cornerstone of your communication strategy.
With that in mind, the templates and tips below will help you write with clarity, empathy, and purpose.
Your message needs to stand out in a crowded inbox. These actionable tips will help you write fundraising emails that inspire action.
Start with a short, real story, like the child who received a scholarship or the animals rescued thanks to donors. Emotion builds connection fast.
“Last winter, Sam spent the holidays in a shelter. This year, he’s safe in a warm home because of supporters like you.”
Your subject line is your first impression. Use action-oriented language that sparks curiosity or urgency. Here are some examples:
Use the recipient’s name and reference their previous involvement to create a sense of connection. Tailor your message to reflect what matters most to each donor segment, like past event attendance or giving levels. Personal touches help supporters feel seen, valued, and more inclined to give again.
Be specific about what you’re asking for and why. Vague appeals don’t drive action. Clear, direct requests help donors understand the impact of their gift and give them confidence in contributing.
For example, “Can you give $25 today to help us fund art supplies for 50 students?”.
Highlight recent donors, testimonials, or stats that show your community is already stepping up. This kind of validation builds trust and encourages others to join in, knowing they’re part of a collective effort.
You can add something like this, for instance, “Thanks to donors like [first name], we’re halfway to our $10,000 goal.”
Guide the reader to a single, prominent action, like a “Give Now” button or a direct donation link. Avoid giving multiple options. Focusing on one clear next step increases the chances they’ll take it.
Make the call to action clear and easy to find. You can use language like, “Click here to help us reach our goal by midnight: [donation link]”
One email isn’t enough. Schedule a follow-up two to three days later and one final push on deadline day. Timely reminders keep your campaign top of mind and give supporters multiple chances to take action before time runs out.
In your follow-up mail, consider phrases that evoke action, without feeling too forward. For example, “There’s still time. Every gift counts –help us close the gap by tonight.”
Here are four plug-and-play fundraising email templates to use in your next marketing campaign. Each is structured for clarity and results.
Use for year-end or holiday fundraising. Adjust tone for winter holidays, Thanksgiving, or the New Year. Include specific program impacts.
Subject: Help Us Share the Spirit This Season
Hi [Name],
The holidays are a time of joy, reflection, and giving. This year, we’re inviting you to be part of something meaningful.
Your gift of [Amount] can help us [impact – e.g., provide meals for local families, offer free music classes, etc.].
Every donation brings us closer to our goal of $[Goal] by [Date].
[Donate Now Button or Link]
Thank you for believing in our mission. Your support means the world.
Warmly,
[Your Organization Name]
Great when asking supporters to raise funds on your behalf. Encourage sharing on social media and add a short video or fundraising poster if available.
Subject: I’m Fundraising for [Cause Name] – Will You Help?
Hi [Name],
I’ve joined [Organization Name]'s fundraising campaign because I care deeply about [mission or cause].
I set a personal goal of raising $[Goal] by [Date], and I’d be honored if you’d consider donating. Even $10 makes a difference.
[Support My Campaign Button or Link]
Thank you so much – your support helps make real change possible.
With gratitude,
[Supporter’s Name]
Use this template for a last-minute push to meet deadline-based fundraising goals. Keep the tone upbeat yet urgent, and consider adding a real-time progress bar if supported by your platform.
Subject: We’re 90% There – Will You Help Us Cross the Finish Line?
Hi [Name],
We’re almost at the finish line. With just [X hours/days] to go, we’re 90% of the way to our $[Goal] target.
Your gift right now could be the one that gets us there.
[Donate Now to Help Us Reach the Goal]
Every dollar fuels our work in [area – e.g., cancer research, school arts, hunger relief].
Let’s finish strong – thank you for being part of this community.
[Organization Name]
Use this email template to promote a virtual or in-person charity auction. List top items, auction opening and closing times, and registration details. Link to your BiddingOwl event site for a smooth experience.
Subject: Our Annual Auction Starts This Friday and You’re Invited!
Hi [Name],
Bidding starts soon. Join us for our [Event Name] auction and help raise funds for [cause/mission].
When: [Date and Time]
Where: [Link or Venue Address]
Preview items, place your bids, and enjoy friendly competition all in support of [brief impact statement].
[View Auction Items Now]
We hope to see you there.
[Organization Name]
P.S. Can’t attend? You can still support us with a donation: [Donate Link]
A compelling fundraising email can rally support and help you reach your campaign goals faster than you think. With the right mix of personalization, clarity, and strategy, your emails can inspire action and deepen donor engagement. Use the above templates to do just that.
With the right tools and the right message, your next email could change everything.
Ready to launch your next fundraising campaign? Visit BiddingOwl to access free, nonprofit-friendly auction and fundraising software to run your next event with confidence.
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