How to write a raffle prize donation request (free template!)

If you’re planning a fundraising raffle or looking to boost your event’s success, raffle prize donations are your secret weapon.

Nearly half of donors (47%!) support causes through online raffles or sweepstakes. Why? Because of the raffle prizes!

But requesting donations for raffles can feel like a full-time job. The good news? We wrote a raffle donation request letter template, so you can reach the right people, secure standout items, and maximize your fundraising efforts without the burnout.

How to write a raffle prize donation request that’s impossible to ignore

1. Personalize your outreach 🎨

Your raffle prize donation request letter should feel personal, not like a mass email. 

Mention why you're reaching out to this specific local business or donor—maybe their values align with your cause, or you’ve worked together before. Personal touches go a long way.

💡 Pro tip: Use the decision-maker’s name and title (LinkedIn is your friend!). Personalization boosts response rates, especially when requesting donations from companies.

2. Keep it concise ✍️ 

A compelling fundraising letter gets to the point fast. Busy business owners and donors don’t need every detail up front—just the essentials.

Clearly state what you're asking for and how it will raise funds for your mission.

For example:

“We’re seeking a gift certificate valued at $50–$100 for our annual fundraising raffle. Each raffle ticket sold helps us provide three meals to families in need.”

Dive deeper

How to ask for donations: 8 steps to a “yes” for your cause →

3. Offer something in return 👀 

Make it a win-win. Show how contributing a donation not only supports a good cause but can also benefit the donor. Consider offering a sponsorship package that includes:

• Logo placement on event materials and digital platforms
• Verbal recognition during the event
• Social media features with tagged posts reaching your audience
• Inclusion in post-event communications to all attendees
• Complimentary tickets to the event
• First right of refusal for next year's sponsorship opportunities

This turns your raffle basket donation request letter into an exciting marketing opportunity for local businesses.

4. Show past success 🥳

Add a success story to your raffle prize donation request. It proves that your organization can deliver a positive impact—and recognition.

Include a short paragraph or visual from a past event that highlights:

• How much money was raised
  
• Happy winners of past raffle donations
  
• What donors received in return

This social proof encourages new supporters to get involved and makes your request letter template event more persuasive.

Learn more

The step-by-step guide to getting donations from companies →

5. Follow up and show gratitude 🙌

Gratitude isn't just polite—it builds lasting donor relationships. Say thanks with:

• A heartfelt thank-you note or call
  
• A framed certificate of appreciation
  
• A social media spotlight
  
• A feature in your post-event recap

As Tammy Zonker, Fundraising and Donor Relations Expert, puts it, 

We want our donors to know they matter, that they made a difference through their giving, and that they understand concretely the difference that they made. That's essentially how we convey to them, ‘I see you, you matter, you're making a difference.

Download your free raffle prize donation letter template

Put these best practices into action with our free raffle prize donation request template. It’s fully customizable and designed to help you save time, reach more donors, and secure standout raffle items faster.

Freebie alert!

Download your free raffle prize donation request template →

Streamline your raffle prize donation requests with Givebutter

Securing great raffle items doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. 

With a strategic approach—targeting the right donors, crafting compelling requests, and leveraging smart tools—you can build an exciting raffle prize lineup that maximizes fundraising campaign success. The key is staying organized and ensuring every step of the process is efficient and effective.

I love how Givebutter has so many different types of fundraising features. Just in our first few months, we have used raffle tickets, event tickets, forms embedded on our website, and text-to-give options. Givebutter is really bringing our fundraising into modern times! — Molly M., Givebutter user

Givebutter makes it easy to manage your raffle fundraising event from start to finish. With its built-in donor CRM, automated follow-ups, and seamless fundraising pages, you can track donation requests, promote your raffle, and engage donors all in one place. 

Get started with Givebutter today and simplify your next raffle fundraiser!