A QR code for fundraising events is an innovative technology that can streamline the process of buying tickets, making donations, and selling merchandise.
QR codes have become common at events of all kinds in recent years. These small, square barcodes are readable with a smartphone camera to access information or take specific actions quickly.
In this article, we’ll explore how QR codes enhance fundraising events and provide some best practices for using them effectively.
Benefits of using QR codes in fundraising events:
The following are several advantages to using QR codes in fundraising events:
Event Organizers
For organizers, event QR code helps streamline the registration and ticketing processes, as attendees can simply scan a code to access their tickets or event information. This can save time and reduce the need for physical ticketing materials.
Event Attendees
For attendees, QR codes provide a convenient and contactless way to access event information and make transactions.
QR codes can also make it easier for people to donate money and buy merchandise to help a cause. Hence, QR codes for fundraising events help the event organizers and attendees.
Best uses of QR codes in fundraising events:
There are many ways to use QR codes in fundraising events. Some examples include:
- Ticketing
Instead of distributing physical tickets, organizers can use QR codes to allow attendees to access their tickets digitally.
Do this through a dedicated event app or by sending the QR code to attendees via email or text message.
- Donations
QR code for online donation charitable giving allow attendees to make donations to the cause they support at the event. Organizers can create QR codes that link to a donation page or set up a QR code-based donation system at the event.
- Merchandise sales
QR codes can facilitate the sale of event merchandise, such as t-shirts or hats. Attendees can scan a code to access a product catalog and place an order, which they can fulfill at the event or ship to them later.
Best practices for using QR codes in fundraising events:
To ensure that QR codes are used effectively at fundraising events, there are a few best practices to follow:
Make sure the codes are easy to scan
This means using a large, high-contrast QR code that’s easily scannable with a smartphone camera. Avoid placing the code in areas with low lighting or other obstructions.
Provide clear instructions
It’s important to provide clear instructions for attendees on scanning the QR codes, whether for tickets, donations, or merchandise sales. Do this on signage, announcements, or written instructions included with the QR code.
Test the codes before the event
Make sure to test all QR codes before the event to ensure they are working properly and avoid any issues on the event day.
Bonus tip:
A free QR code generator is valuable for creating and managing QR codes for fundraising events. Many online platforms offer this service, allowing you to create custom QR codes and track their usage.
Real life fundraisers that use QR code
Here are some real-life examples of fundraisers that used QR codes:
Support Local: Virtual Food & Drink Festival
Organized by the non-profit Eat Drink Savor in 2020, the event was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with local restaurants and breweries offering takeout and delivery.
People could buy tickets to the event with a QR code, which they could scan at businesses that were taking part to get special discounts and deals.
The QR code ticket also gave access to virtual cooking demos and mixology classes and a raffle with prizes from local businesses.
The event was a success, with over 1,000 tickets sold and $15,000 raised for local food banks and COVID-19 relief efforts.
QR codes helped make the event convenient and contactless for attendees, allowing easy ticket sales and redemption tracking.
Ride for the River
The “Ride for the River” bike ride fundraiser organized by the James River Association in Virginia used QR codes to streamline the registration process for participants.
Attendees could scan a QR code to access their registration information and waivers and make donations to the organization.
Run for a Reason
The “Run for a Reason” charity run in Australia used QR codes to facilitate the registration process for participants and track their progress during the event.
Attendees could scan a QR code at check-in to access their personal information and event details and then scan a code at each checkpoint along the route to track their time and distance.
Brews for a Cause
The “Brews for a Cause” craft beer festival in California used QR codes to facilitate ticket sales and make it easy for attendees to access event information and a list of participating breweries.
Attendees could scan a QR code to access their tickets and view the festival map and schedule on their smartphones.
These are just a few examples of how QR codes can enhance fundraising events and make them more efficient and convenient for organizers and attendees.
How to invite users to use a QR code for fundraising
If you’re organizing a fundraising event and considering using QR codes, here are a few ways you can invite attendees to use them:
- Promote the use of QR codes in your event materials
You can use flyers and brochures QR code on promotional materials. Provide clear instructions on how attendees can scan the codes and what they can expect to find when they do so.
- Set up QR code stations
Consider setting up designated QR code stations at the event, where attendees can scan codes to access event information, make donations, or purchase merchandise. Make sure to provide clear signage and instructions at these stations.
- Use QR codes on event materials
Include QR codes on event signage, tickets, and other materials attendees will encounter during the event. This can help remind attendees that they can use QR codes to access event information and make transactions.
By promoting QR codes and giving clear instructions on how to use them, you can encourage people to use them and take advantage of how easy and quick they are.
Step up your fundraising events with QR codes today
QR codes can be a valuable tool for fundraising events because they make it easy to buy tickets, make donations, sell merchandise, and more.
With a QR code for fundraising events, organizers can streamline the event experience for attendees and make it easier for them to support the cause.
Ensure that the event runs smoothly and is a success by deploying easy-to-scan QR codes and providing clear instructions.
Start creating QR codes for your fundraising events now with the best free QR code generator online.
