Step-by-Step Guide to Launching a Successful GoFundMe Campaign

GoFundMe is a powerful platform for crowdfunding that can help you raise money for various needs. Whether you're funding a medical emergency, supporting a pet, or raising funds for a community project, this guide will walk you through the process of setting up and launching a successful GoFundMe campaign.

Step 1: Let’s Start with the Basics

1. Where Do You Live?

Enter the location of the bank account that will receive the funds. This will also determine the currency in which the funds are collected. Ensure this information aligns with your bank account details to avoid any issues.

2. What Are You Fundraising For?

Select a category that best fits your situation. While it’s essential for users to find your fundraiser, this selection is more about making your campaign discoverable to potential contributors.

3. What’s Your Name?

The name you provide will be visible on your fundraiser page. If you prefer to use an alias for privacy reasons, you can enter your chosen name here. However, when setting up transfers, ensure you use your legal name.

4. Who Are You Fundraising For?

Specify the beneficiary. If you will manage the transfers yourself, whether to a personal or company bank account, select the appropriate option. This ensures transparency and compliance with GoFundMe’s policies.

Step 2: Set Your Fundraising Goal

Your fundraising goal should accurately reflect the amount you need. Remember that there will be a transaction fee per donation, so you might want to set a slightly higher goal than necessary. You have the option to adjust your goal at any time, and you can withdraw your funds even if you don’t reach your target.

Step 3: Create Your GoFundMe Account

To create your account, provide your email address and a strong password. Double-check the spelling of your email and keep a safe record of your password. Make sure you can access this email, as GoFundMe will use it to communicate important information.

Step 4: Add a Cover Photo or Video

A personal photo or video that showcases the person, animal, or cause for which the funds are being raised is generally more successful. Ensure you have the rights to post and share the content, and that it meets the recommended quality standards. If you're using the GoFundMe app, you can record a video directly through the app.

Step 5: Tell Your Story

Start by creating a compelling title for your fundraiser. This title should be specific and impactful, standing out to potential donors. For instance, 'Help Kelly Smile Again' has more impact than 'Funds for the Dentist.' Aim for a title that is 35 characters or less.

Compose a detailed story that includes the purpose of the funds, how they will be spent, and any personal details that will resonate with potential donors. When you have completed your story, click 'Complete fundraiser' to go live.

Step 6: Complete Your Fundraiser

Clicking 'Complete fundraiser' launches your campaign and makes it available to receive donations. Although your fundraiser can start receiving donations immediately, it's important to share it with your communities to ensure visibility and participation.

Step 7: Start Getting Donations

Sharing your fundraiser with as many communities as possible is crucial for its success. Utilize social media, email, and in-person methods to spread the word. Click the various options provided to share your fundraiser's link on different platforms. Remember, the key to getting donations is sharing!

Step 8: Invite Team Members

Adding team members to your fundraising efforts can significantly increase your success rate. Team fundraisers have been shown to raise up to three times more funds. Team members can help spread the word, post updates, and thank donors, but they cannot transfer funds or edit the story.

Enter your team members' email addresses and click 'send invite' to have them join your team. You can read more about team fundraisers in our Help Center.

Your fundraiser is now live, and you're ready to start raising funds. Utilize all the tools and resources provided by GoFundMe to maximize your campaign's success.