Future-Proof Your Golf Fundraiser With These 6 Strategies
 

Your golf tournament is a key part of your nonprofit’s fundraising strategy. Ensuring your golf fundraiser’s long-term success requires more than just smooth execution on event day. Future-proofing your golf event means setting it up to thrive year after year, even if there are major changes to the planning team. By putting the right systems and processes in place, your nonprofit can protect the tournament’s success for the future while making planning easier for years to come.

Here are six best practices to help your nonprofit future-proof your charity golf tournament so it stays a lucrative fundraising event no matter what changes you face.

1. Use golf event management software

A singular platform is key for ensuring continuity. The beauty of a platform built for golf events is that tournaments can be copied year over year so new event organizers aren’t forced to start from scratch. This helps provide much-needed stability and baseline infrastructure when personnel might be in flux. The right platform should allow multiple users without any extra fees and access to a responsive support team that can walk new users through the software’s back end and provide guidance.

A screenshot of a golf event management software is shown on a laptop.

An event management platform built just for golf helps new tournament organizers jump right into planning.

2. document, document, document!

If your lead tournament organizer or key volunteer left tomorrow or had an emergency that took them away from planning, would anyone else know how to run the tournament? Would they know what needs to be done, who to connect with at the golf facility, or what’s been promised to sponsors? Thoroughly documenting your planning process from start to finish, as well as tracking progress during planning, ensures that institutional knowledge isn’t lost when there’s staff turnover or new volunteers come on board.

Start by creating a central event planning document or spreadsheet that outlines the entire process from start to finish, from securing the golf course to sending thank-you notes after the event.

Include key deadlines, contact information for vendors and sponsors, and details about your event management software.

  • Track progress as tasks are completed, so if a change occurs mid-planning, others will be able to continue the work without interruption. 

  • Make note of what worked well (and what didn’t) to refine and improve your process each year.

  • Store the documentation in a shared drive so it’s easily accessible by members of your planning team.

A well-documented process reduces the risk of setbacks and gives future organizers a clear roadmap to follow.


The cover of the Golf Tournament Fundraiser Timeline and Checklist.

free planning template

Keep your golf tournament on task and on target. Download this free timeline and checklist to document tasks and ensure everyone is on the same page.


3. Have Two Points of Contact for Everything

Relying on one person to manage all aspects of your tournament creates a single point of failure. If that person becomes unavailable, it can derail your event. To avoid this, designate at least two people from your planning team to be points of contact for each key element of your fundraiser:

  • Sponsorships. Ensure both points of contact know the details of each sponsorship package, including the promised benefits, pricing, and availability. It’s a good practice to CC each contact on email communication with sponsors so everyone is in the know.

  • Event management technology. Both contacts should have logins to your event management platform, been introduced to its support team, and know how to contact support so they can troubleshoot issues or get help quickly.

  • Golf facility coordination. Ensure that both points of contact have contact information for the head golf pro and/or golf facility sales representative. Both should also have a basic understanding of the course’s layout and logistics.

  • Budget. A common budget spreadsheet can help you track dollars in and out and see where your tournament stands. Ensure both contacts have access to the spreadsheet and can track income from registrations and payments in the event management platform.

  • Vendor orders. This can be as simple as CCing each contact on communication with vendors on orders, specs, and deadlines for materials like signage, catering, pin flags, or player gifts.

You might also assign a “chair” for various components, such as a chair of sponsorships, volunteers, promotion, budget, and logistics to better share the load and tournament knowledge. While this redundancy may seem unnecessary, it prevents last-minute scrambles and ensures someone is always able to step in to handle key responsibilities.

Volunteers stack their hands together while planning a golf tournament.

Having two points of contact ensures planning can move forward if there are changes in your tournament’s leadership.

4. create a succession plan

Unfortunately, staff and volunteer turnover is inevitable, so a strong succession plan is critical for maintaining event continuity. Here’s how to create one:

  • Identify key roles and responsibilities for your golf fundraiser, including each “chair.”

  • Train backup staff or volunteers to handle each role, including how to use your event software and communicate with sponsors and vendors.

  • Keep a running list of contacts and instructions for tasks like setting up the registration website, managing volunteers, handling sponsor invoicing, and running on-course games and contests.

  • Hold a post-event debrief with your team and update the plan based on lessons learned.

A clear succession plan ensures that new team members can step in and continue executing a successful event without a steep learning curve.

5. manage sponsorships in your event management platform

Managing sponsorships manually—or across multiple platforms—can lead to missed opportunities and dropped details, particularly if there are any personnel changes. Instead, simplify sponsor management by using an event registration website and your golf event management platform:

  • Build sponsorship packages in your software’s back end and link all sponsor outreach to the website to ensure a consistent call to action in your communication with prospective sponsors.

  • List sponsorship packages on the event site so sponsors can browse options and purchase their package without needing to connect with a specific member of your planning team. Sponsors can submit their logo and assets during registration, which should automatically populate the site or mobile app and be available in the software for other branding needs.

  • Track sponsor commitments, contacts, payments, and benefits in your centralized event management platform. This is particularly useful when copying tournaments in subsequent years.

  • Keep a record of businesses that have been approached for sponsorships from each year to help inform future outreach and renewal strategies.

Managing your tournament’s sponsorships with a centralized system helps you better deliver on sponsor agreements, provide valuable exposure, and make it easier to manage renewals.

Sponsor logos on a golf tournament's registration website is shown on a laptop computer.

Sponsors get broad visibility on a tournament’s registration website.

6. connect with the head pro at the host golf facility

The golf facility wants your tournament to be a success—it reflects positively on the facility! To help ensure success, establish a good working relationship with golf facility staff, especially the head pro. This facilitates smooth communication, handling of logistics, and golfer experience. A key part of future-proofing your golf fundraiser is the relationship with the golf facility. If there are changes, golf and sales staff can often help new personnel fill in the gaps.

  • Schedule a meeting with the head pro early in the planning process to discuss course regulations, tournament schedules, food and beverage offerings, contract terms, and any potential challenges.

  • Confirm how contests, like closest to the pin, hole-in-one, and longest drive will be set up and handled.

  • Keep the head pro updated on registration numbers and any changes to the schedule. It’s a good idea to share access to your golf event management software so they can check participation and teams in real time.

  • On event day, your two points of contact should check in with the head pro to handle any last-minute adjustments.

Leveraging the expertise of the host golf facility’s head pro will help your tournament run smoothly and that golfers have a positive experience—no matter who’s in charge.


set your event up for long-term success with golfstatus

Future-proofing your golf fundraiser isn’t just about protecting your current event—it’s about setting up a framework for long-term success. By documenting your process, building redundancy into key roles, creating a succession plan, streamlining sponsor management, and maintaining a strong relationship with the host course, you’ll create a more resilient event that raises more money year after year.

Start with an event management tool that’s built for golf events and fundraisers—GolfStatus. Manage registrations, sponsorships, and schedules right in the platform, and use the free event website to market your event. Plus, you’ll get access to exclusive sponsorships, add-ons, and Fundraising Specialists to help you raise additional funds for your cause—at no upfront cost. Book a quick 15 or 30-minute meeting with the GolfStatus team to learn more.

Future Proof Your Golf Event With GolfStatus

Book a Meeting to Get Started

 

 
AFP and GolfStatus Announce Continued Strategic Partnership
 

DATE: March, 13 2025
FOR RELEASE: Immediate
CONTACTS: Natalie Paskoski, Manager of Communications, (434) 236 – 5583, [email protected]

GOLFSTATUS FUNDRAISING CONTACT: Ashley Stahr, Chief Marketing Officer, (402) 413-9650, [email protected]

(Arlington, Virginia) The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), the largest association of fundraising professionals in the world, has announced the fifth year of a strategic partnership with GolfStatus, the leading event management platform for charity golf tournaments and fundraisers. The partnership supports AFP’s work with nonprofits and fundraisers and the annual AFP ICON conference.

Nonprofit golf events powered by GolfStatus raised nearly $25 million in 2024, tapping into the $4.6 billion golf helps raise for charity annually. GolfStatus helps nonprofits leverage this giving power by simplifying and streamlining golf events with tools that responsibly collect and manage donor data, securely process donations, engage supporters through a pastime they enjoy, and ultimately, raise more dollars to do more good.

Qualifying nonprofits can access GolfStatus’ technology at no upfront cost as part of its Golf for Good program, which helps organizations committed to social good save time and resources while raising more money for their mission.

“Over the years, GolfStatus has become an essential partner for AFP, offering the fundraising community invaluable resources and expertise to unlock the potential of golf events,” said Chris Amos, senior director, business development for AFP. “We are thrilled to welcome them back as a Visionary Partner and AFP ICON 2025 sponsor. Their innovative approach to golf fundraising provides our members with the tools and strategies they need to make their events more inclusive, impactful, and successful. We’re excited to continue collaborating with GolfStatus to empower nonprofits everywhere.”

By connecting golfers to important causes in communities and beyond, golf fundraisers powered by GolfStatus are instrumental in furthering inclusivity and bringing change to the golf industry.

“GolfStatus helps nonprofits of all types and sizes raise mission-critical dollars through golf,” says Steve Mattern, chief operating officer at GolfStatus. “We’re honored to once again partner with AFP to provide organizations with the tools they need to use golf as a fundraising tool to raise the dollars they need to tackle important issues in their community and beyond..”

The AFP Partners Program provides participating organizations with year-round opportunities to engage the fundraising community and pursue corporate social responsibility through tangential support of the causes for which they work. Through thought leadership, marketing, content, and professional development channels, AFP Partners are industry leaders committed to advancing philanthropy and ethical fundraising worldwide. Their financial and programmatic support also enables AFP to develop highly competent fundraisers and educate the public on the industry’s ability to fuel societal change in critical arenas like education, healthcare, community development, equity and inclusion, and countless other missions.

For more information about the AFP Partners Program, contact Chris Amos, senior director, business development, at [email protected].


Since 1960, the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) has been the standard-bearer for professionalism in fundraising. The association works to advance effective and ethical philanthropy by providing advocacy, research, education, mentoring, collaboration and technology opportunities for the world’s largest network of professional fundraisers. AFP’s more than 26,000 members in over 220 professional chapters raise over $100 billion annually for a wide variety of charitable organizations and causes across the globe. For more information, go to afpglobal.org.


GolfStatus helps nonprofits leverage the giving power of golf to raise more dollars, engage supporters, and do more good. Its robust golf event management platform streamlines golf tournaments from start to finish to save time and enhance the overall event experience for golfers, sponsors, and golf facilities. GolfStatus combines powerful technology with practical golf fundraising resources and industry-leading support to make charity golf tournaments easy, approachable, and efficient for organizations of all types and sizes. Visit https://golfstatus.com/.


Source: afpglobal.org

 
 
Press & NewsGuest User
Don’t Undersell Your Golf Tournament's Title Sponsorship—Do This Instead
 

Sponsorships are the backbone of any successful charity golf tournament, and none is more critical than your title or presenting sponsor. This top-dollar sponsorship opportunity provides unparalleled visibility and brand exposure for the sponsor while ensuring the event’s overall success for your nonprofit.

Many tournaments significantly underprice and undervalue their title sponsorship simply because they’re unsure of its worth. Here’s how to position and sell your title sponsorship, ensure sponsors see its full value, and use technology to add value and maximize their investment.

Positioning the value of your tournament’s title sponsorship

A title or presenting sponsorship typically offers a business the highest level of exposure and branding available for a golf tournament. Unlike other sponsorships, the title sponsor is often fully embedded in every aspect of the tournament, such as:

  • Event naming rights. The sponsor’s name is folded into the event’s title, ensuring top-of-mind awareness. For example, “Putt Putt Fore Puppies Presented by Sinclair Hille Architects.”

  • Exclusive branding on marketing and promotional materials. The title sponsor’s logos and messaging appear prominently on the event website, email marketing, printed flyers and invitations, signage, and social media promotions.

  • On-site visibility. From tournament banners and cart signs to branded scorecards and giveaways, the title sponsor has a heavy visual presence at the event.

  • Direct audience engagement. The sponsor might have the opportunity to speak at the tournament’s opening or awards ceremony, set up a display on a tee box, or perhaps host a VIP area for networking.

  • Media and PR exposure. The sponsor’s brand is highlighted in press releases, media coverage, and post-event recaps, reinforcing credibility and reach.

These aren’t all the benefits you can include in your title sponsorship package. You might add value by offering the sponsor one or more teams to play in the tournament, access to the tournament’s participant list, additional logo placements, or additional engagement opportunities.

It’s important to remember that your golf tournament has a unique value proposition, particularly for the title sponsor: exposure, access, and high engagement to an audience of golfers they can’t reach anywhere else. Because golfers generally represent an affluent, influential demographic, they’re often considered ideal clients or customers for businesses. Plus, the sponsor enjoys the brand lift and positive PR of being associated with a good cause like yours.

do this instead: boost the title sponsorship’s value with a technology sponsorship

Adding a Technology Sponsorship takes a title sponsorship to the next level by integrating the sponsor’s branding into the digital and interactive elements of the tournament. This requires the right event management tech—one that’s built specifically for golf events, has baked-in sponsor touchpoints throughout the platform, and modernizes the experience for players, volunteers, and attendees.

A collage showing the exposure points for the Technology Sponsorship.

GolfStatus’ Technology Sponsorship provides broad exposure across the platform.

Here’s where adding a Technology Sponsorship to the title sponsorship package has the biggest impact:

  • Tournament registration website. The title sponsor’s logo should be prominently featured on the tournament website, reinforcing their involvement from the first player interaction and with every site visit.

  • Mobile scoring app. The title sponsor’s brand is displayed across the digital scorecard, keeping their brand front and center throughout the tournament round.

  • Live leaderboards. Live leaderboards offer a high level of professionalism to your tournament and your title sponsor. The title sponsor’s logo is seen every time a golfer or spectator checks the round’s standings on the event website or mobile scoring app.

  • Automated receipts. Add logos to automated payment receipts to increase impressions and engagement.

  • Push notifications. Offer sponsors the chance to include messaging in mobile scoring app push notifications.

  • Social media and digital marketing. Combining the Technology Sponsorship into your title sponsorship ensures even greater visibility through branded content, hashtag campaigns, and boosted social media posts that link back to your event website.


Sample title + tech sponsorship package

  • Exclusive event naming rights for the tournament, including a co-branded tournament logo.

  • Primary logo placement on all event promotional materials, signage, the event website, live leaderboards, cart signs, reports, trophies, and registration and donation receipts.

  • Co-branded digital elements, including promotional emails, social media mentions, ad campaigns, PR campaigns, and the opportunity to send push notifications to participants.

  • High-value speaking opportunities during the tournament’s kickoff and awards ceremony.

  • Exclusive engagement with golfers with a booth set up on the sponsor’s tee box of choice.

  • Two complementary foursomes to play in the tournament.

  • Data and analytics reporting, showcasing audience reach, contact information, engagement, and digital impressions.


The title sponsor of a charity golf tournament speaks during the tournament's kickoff.

Taking care of your title sponsor

Securing a title sponsor is just the first step—you need to deliver an exceptional sponsorship experience to maintain and even strengthen the relationship. Here’s how:

  • Personalized communication. Keep the sponsor informed about event planning updates, branding opportunities, and impact metrics.

  • Seamless integration. Ensure their branding appears flawlessly in all print and digital materials.

  • VIP perks. Offer a premier experience at the tournament, such as reserved parking and a dedicated volunteer or staff member to host them during the tournament.

  • Post-tournament follow-up. Provide a detailed sponsorship fulfillment report, including event analytics and ROI.


The cover of the Golf Tournament Sponsorship Report Template.

free template

Sponsor Fulfillment Report Template

A Sponsor Fulfillment Report is a summary of every sponsor benefit you said you would provide and an itemized description of how you fulfilled each. This guide includes components to help you prove the ROI of your tournament to sponsors.


maximize your title sponsorship’s value with tech

The title sponsorship is the crown jewel of your golf tournament, and pairing it with GolfStatus’ exclusive Technology Sponsorship adds value and amplifies its impact. By integrating digital branding, leveraging high-engagement tech tools, and providing measurable sponsorship fulfillment, you’ll create an unbeatable sponsorship opportunity.

Click below to book a quick 15 or 30-minute call or a full demo with the GolfStatus team to learn more about how the Technology Sponsorship can boost your tournament’s revenue!

 

 
Down Syndrome Association Leverages Golf & Tech to Increase Fundraising for Inclusive Camp Programs
 

The Down Syndrome Association (DSA) of Greater Charlotte serves as a vital hub of resources and support for individuals with Down syndrome (Ds) and their families across 12 counties surrounding Charlotte, NC. With a mission to empower and enable individuals with Ds to reach their full potential and become respected members of their community, DSA of Greater Charlotte supports 300-500 families annually through a variety of programs, from early intervention to adult resources.

People wearing matching t-shirts pose for a picture at a summer camp.

One of the most impactful programs DSA of Greater Charlotte provides is its summer camp lineup, offering both day camps and sleepaway camps for children and adults with Ds. “We don’t ever want someone to feel like they can’t participate in camp because of financial reasons,” says Victoria Coles, DSA of Greater Charlotte's Program and Community Outreach Director. To raise money for camp scholarships, DSA of Greater Charlotte has held an annual golf tournament for nearly two decades.


We don’t ever want someone to feel like they can’t participate in camp because of financial reasons.
— Victoria Coles, DSA of Greater Charlotte's Program and Community Outreach Director

In 2024, DSA of Greater Charlotte reimagined its long-standing golf event, leveraging innovative event management technology to overcome logistical challenges, boost sponsorships, and enhance participant experiences. The result? A record-breaking $53,000 raised for camp scholarships, allowing even more families to benefit from life-changing programs.

Four people smiling before participating in a golf tournament.

Download the full case study to learn how GolfStatus empowered the DSA of Greater Charlotte team to elevate their golf tournament, increase revenue, and streamline operations.

 
 
30 High-Impact Corporate Fundraising Ideas + Best Practices
 

Corporate fundraising presents a valuable opportunity for nonprofits and businesses to make a meaningful impact on their communities. For nonprofits, it means additional funding, resources, and greater visibility. For businesses, raising money for charity as a third party boosts brand reputation, engages employees, and fosters connections with new audiences.

Whether you’re a nonprofit looking to secure corporate support or a company looking to give back, these key strategies and fundraising ideas will help you maximize your impact.

A man and  woman shake hands.
 

Corporate Fundraising FAQ

What Are the Benefits of Corporate Fundraising for Nonprofits?

  • Increased funding and financial stability. Corporate sponsorships and donations create a reliable funding source for nonprofits.

  • Expanded audience and brand awareness. Corporate partnerships introduce nonprofit causes to new audiences and raise awareness about important issues.

  • Access to valuable resources and expertise. Corporate partners may provide helpful resources like in-kind donations or skilled volunteers, along with industry expertise.

  • Long-term strategic partnerships. These collaborations provide ongoing support for sustained impact.

  • Increased credibility and public trust. Aligning with respectable brands or well-known businesses helps build trust among the community and with donors.

Why Should Businesses Invest in Corporate Fundraising?

  • Reputation boost. Corporate giving enhances your social responsibility profile, enhancing and strengthening your brand and reputation.

  • Introduction to new audiences and customers. Supporting a nonprofit can help businesses engage with new customers. For instance, fundraising events that attract higher net-worth individuals—like charity golf tournaments—help businesses attract valuable clientele.

  • Improved employee engagement. Giving back can boost employee satisfaction and engagement, foster connection between teams, and improve team-building.

  • Diverse giving opportunities. There are multiple ways companies can support charitable causes, including in-kind donations, monetary sponsorships, cause marketing campaigns, and more.

A corporate team poses with a big check.

Corporate partnerships have a number of benefits for businesses and noprofits.


What Are Some Best Practices for Organizing Corporate Fundraising Events?

For all parties to maximize the impact of charitable partnerships, the following best practices should be considered:

Nonprofits

  • Educate partners on any other corporate giving opportunities that may exist to further maximize their charitable efforts, such as matching gifts, volunteer grants, or payroll giving.

  • Mobilize your donor network to spread the word about your corporate partner’s contributions, share information about the upcoming fundraising event, and encourage participation.

  • Set goals that are both ambitious and realistic, based on past fundraising efforts, successes, and lessons learned.

Businesses & Third-Party Fundraisers

  • Be transparent about the scope of your support and involvement in the fundraising event.

  • Align fundraising events with your company’s mission, brand, and audience.

  • Collaborate with the nonprofit to create compelling event promotional materials, such as a compelling event website with storytelling, visuals, and many opportunities and tiers for involvement.

Both Parties

  • Work with partners that share your goals and values for the best possible outcomes for everyone involved.

  • Choose the right event that will appeal to each organization’s audiences.

  • Follow up after the event to reflect on its success, demonstrate its impact, and express gratitude.

  • Create an event plan that details event tasks, assignments, and timelines.

  • Outline a budget so both parties are on the same page.

  • Use purpose-built tech to effectively and efficiently streamline planning and event management. For example, if you choose a charity golf tournament, choose a solution built specifically for golf, like GolfStatus.

The Top Corporate Fundraising Idea: Charity Golf Tournament

What Is a Charity Golf Tournament?

A charity golf tournament is a premier fundraising event that offers numerous benefits for the host company and benefiting nonprofit. Golf events bring people together like no other event can, combining philanthropy with networking, camaraderie, and an activity people genuinely enjoy. Golfers pay a registration fee to participate as an individual or a team and businesses purchase sponsorships to support the cause.

A group poses in front of a banner at a charity golf tournament.

Charity golf tournaments bring people together to raise money, make connections, and strengthen relationships.


Why Is a Charity Golf Tournament the Best Corporate Fundraising Idea?

  • Golf events have high revenue potential. Player registrations, sponsorships, and add-ons such as contests, on-course games, mulligan sales, auctions, and raffles drive revenue.

  • Golf tournaments appeal to sponsors. Golf events provide excellent branding and exposure opportunities for businesses of all types, plus access to an audience that can’t be found with any other event.

  • Golf events attract decision-makers. Golf attracts corporate executives and higher-than-average net-worth individuals. 90% of Fortune 500 CEOs are golfers, and one in three golfers are in top-level management.

  • Golf is more popular and inclusive than ever. Golf continues to see record popularity, attracting new audiences of beginners, women, and young adults.

  • Golf builds relationships. Because the focus of the event is on an enjoyable activity, it’s easy for donors and sponsors to build relationships and positive memories that keep them coming back year after year.

  • Golf events strengthen community engagement. Golf events planned by a third-party corporate partner deepen community ties and engagement.

  • Golf tournaments are customizable. Choose the golf facility, format, and competition level that best suits your combined audiences.

  • There are multiple opportunities for support. Golf tournaments offer a plethora of opportunities to support a nonprofit partner—monetary sponsorships, employee volunteering, in-kind donations, and more.

Tips for Launching a Charity Golf Tournament

With the right strategy and tools in place, it’s easier than ever to plan and execute a successful charity golf tournament. Follow these tips:

  • Use an event website. A dedicated golf tournament website with online registration makes promotion, registration, sponsor onboarding and exposure, sharing information about your cause, and communication with supporters simple and efficient.

  • Offer sponsorship packages at varying price points. This best practice allows businesses with different budget capabilities to support your tournament. High-end exposure, like a pin flag sponsorship, should be sold at a premium,

  • Maximize additional fundraising. Incorporate tournament components such as mulligan sales, raffle tickets, auctions, on-course games, and hole-in-one contests to boost fundraising outcomes.

  • Enlist volunteer help. Work to engage volunteers from both the corporate partner and nonprofit to help in tournament prep and day-of execution.

Most importantly, use a golf-specific event management platform. Golf tournaments come with a unique set of details that must be handled, including handicaps, hole assignments, team pairings, flighting, and scoring. Standard ticketing software and nonprofit CRMs simply aren’t built to handle this level of specificity without requiring time-consuming workarounds.

GolfStatus’ golf event management software addresses the golf specifics and has baked-in tools to save organizers time and opportunities to raise more money:

  • Event websites with online registration, secure payment processing, broad digital sponsor exposure, the ability to collect donations, and more.

  • Robust reporting and data management in one easily-accessible web-based platform.

  • A user-friendly back end where team members can collaborate, manage payments, track team and sponsorship sales, make hole assignments, and more.

  • Reliable live scoring that engages golfers throughout the tournament and makes the tournament more fun.

  • Exclusive sponsorships and add-ons to raise thousands more dollars.

  • A responsive, in-house client success team comprised of PGA Professionals and fundraising specialists.

For third party fundraisers like corporate entities, GolfStatus can essentially be the bank for the golf event. GolfStatus makes it simple to collect and hold funds that can be paid out directly to the nonprofit after the tournament concludes.


Get started with golfstatus


Other Event-Based Corporate Fundraising Ideas

1. Corporate gala or charity ball

2. Trivia night

3. Charity game night

4. Wine and dine fundraiser

5. Benefit concert (could also accompany your charity golf tournament)

6. Networking event or conference

7. Executive challenges (like dunk tanks or pie-in-the-face challenges)

8. Giving days

9. Corporate field day

Workplace Giving & Employee Engagement Fundraising Ideas

10. Donation matching

11. Payroll giving

12. Company-wide donation challenge

13. Internal company charity raffle

14. Company silent auction

15. Cause-related product sales

16. Peer-to-peer company-wide fundraising competition

17. Office bake sale

A donation page of a golf tournament website is shown on a laptop.

Companies can further the impact of their charity golf tournament by holding an accompanying donation drive.

Community-Focused Fundraising Ideas

18. Charity car wash

19. Restaurant fundraising night

20. Food or in-kind item drive

21. Charity run

22. Community festival for charity

Virtual Fundraising Ideas

23. Online fundraising gamification or rewards-based campaigns

24. Social media challenges

25. Crowdfunding campaigns

26. Livestream fundraising event

Seasonal Corporate Fundraising Ideas

27. Halloween costume contest

28. Valentine's candy-gram fundraiser

29. Holiday gift drive


Final Thoughts

Corporate fundraising strengthens communities, builds partnerships, and makes a lasting impact. Whether you’re hosting a charity golf tournament or launching another fundraising campaign, the right tools and strategies help ensure success.

GolfStatus simplifies golf event planning and management while maximizing fundraising potential. Click below to learn more!

Make Your Golf Event a Swinging Success!

Click Here to Get Started With GolfStatus!

 
 
6 Reasons Your Golf Fundraiser Needs an Event Website (and How to Get One for Free)
 

If your organization isn’t using an event website for your charity golf tournament, you’re missing out on a powerful tool that saves busy organizers like you time, enhances the professionalism of your tournament, and attracts more players and sponsors. Here are six reasons why an event website is a must-have, how to maximize its impact, and how nonprofits can get one at no cost.

An attractive, professional event website is the hub for your charity golf tournament.

 

1. Event promotion is as simple as sharing a link

A dedicated event website makes promoting your tournament quick and easy. Simply include the link in all your communications—emails, social media, sponsor outreach, even printed pieces. Attendees and potential sponsors are directed to a professional, mobile-friendly event site where they can register a team, purchase a sponsorship, or make a donation with just a few clicks and on any device. Your website should be powered by an event management platform that’s built for golf events and allow you to efficiently capture golf specific details like team members, player handicaps, and more.


Pro tip:

Add QR codes that link directly to your event website in any printed promotional materials—flyers, postcards, mailed invitations, etc.—to make it easy for golfers and sponsors to commit as soon as they hear about your tournament.


2. Your tournament gets more credibility & professionalism

An event website presents your tournament—and your organization—in the best possible light. It keeps information organized and showcases your nonprofit’s mission and work, helping attendees and sponsors better connect with your cause. Linking your event site to your organization’s main website strengthens credibility and makes it easy for visitors to learn more and get involved. Sponsors also appreciate the added professionalism and digital exposure that a well-designed event site provides.


Pro tip:

Choose a platform that allows you to customize your event website with images, videos, and compelling storytelling about your cause.


Free guide:

the essential guide to golf tournament event websites

This comprehensive guide provides golf tournament organizers with strategies and best practices for using an event website to streamline planning and raise more money from your golf event.


3. Online registration streamlines everything

People expect to register and pay for events online these days. An event website makes it easy for golfers and sponsors to commit the moment they hear about your tournament—whether through word of mouth, digital channels, or a personal invitation. Plus, collecting registration and payments through the site means no more manually processing registrations and payments, keeping multiple spreadsheets up to date, or sending receipts. Secure online transactions automate data collection (i.e. donor and sponsor data) and streamlines event planning, reducing administrative work and ensuring your donor database stays up to date for post-tournament stewardship. You’ll collect funds upfront, so you’re not chasing down payments on tournament day, or worse, stuck covering the cost for someone who registered but never paid.


pro tip:

Use a golf event management platform that includes built-in, secure payment processing and robust reporting features.


4. sponsors get maximum visibility & exposure

A professional golf tournament website makes it easy to list and sell sponsorship packages that are custom-built to meet your event’s needs, while giving sponsors premium visibility before, during, and after the tournament. Sponsors love the impressions they earn every time someone visits the website to register, check their hole assignments, and see the day’s schedule. Look for a platform that simplifies sponsor onboarding, so logos and assets are submitted right at registration and automatically appear on the site. Sponsors also appreciate additional exposure on live leaderboards and live scoring apps.


Pro Tip:

Send a final round of promotional emails and social media shout-outs recognizing sponsors a few weeks before the tournament. This provides extra exposure for onboarded sponsors and can even encourage other sponsors to get involved.


Sponsor logos on a golf tournament website are displayed on a laptop.

An event website gives sponsors broad digital exposure with every site visit.

 

5. you’ll save a ton of time & stay organized

Gone are the days of manually processing paper forms, deciphering credit card numbers, cashing checks, reconciling Venmos, and juggling receipts and spreadsheets. With an event website, registrations, add-on purchases (like raffle tickets and mulligans), sponsorships, team pairings, and donations are all managed in one easily-accessible place. It also makes coordinating with your planning team and the golf facility simple and efficient. Staff at the host golf facility can access real-time event details and participant information and print pre-formatted cart signs, score cards, and alpha lists so they’re focused on serving your event and not on back office work. When everything is organized and accessible, everyone saves time (to the tune of 30-40 hours) and effort.


Pro tip:

Share access to your event management platform with golf staff for easy handling of last-minute logistics like hole assignments, flights, and team pairings.


6. it’s easy to communicate updates & engage participants

Need to add details or make last-minute changes? An event website makes it simple to keep attendees informed. Whether it’s updating tee times, promoting a hole-in-one contest or high-end auction item, or sharing weather-related changes, updates are made in real time. If your platform includes live scoring and digital leaderboards, you can keep golfers engaged throughout the event while providing extra visibility for sponsors. And you don’t necessarily need to have every tournament detail hammered out before you launch your site—it can be as simple as the date and location, with a note of more details to follow. This lets you get on the radars of donors and sponsors as early as possible.


Pro Tip:

Ask each of your organization’s board, planning committee, and staff to email or text a link to the event website to at least five people who might be interested in either playing or sponsoring your golf event.


get a free event website

Nonprofits or third parties hosting a golf fundraiser can qualify for a free event website and full access to GolfStatus’ powerful event management platform at no upfront through the Golf for Good program. Our team can work with you to build a site or guide you through the process. Click below to get started.

Launch An Event Website In Minutes

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A Q&A With PGA Professionals: Tournament Food & Beverage
 

This installment in our PGA Q&A blog series discusses a popular topic for charity golf tournament planners: food and beverage. Food and beverage can play a major role in elevating the tournament experience, but many tournament organizers aren’t sure how to tackle this part of planning. Get insights from GolfStatus’ on-staff PGA Professionals: Cash Dinkel, PGA; Jason Meininger, PGA; and Paul Murcek, PGA.

Q: where do i start in choosing food and beverage for my tournament?

Cash Dinkel: First, determine whether or not you want to have any food and beverage (F&B) associated with your event. Most tournaments we work with offer F&B, and to be honest, it’s become an expectation when playing in these events. Your best bet is to start with the golf facility. Many facilities will have F&B operations on site and will bundle F&B into your tournament package, which makes coordination much easier. Next, determine your budget. You can either wrap the F&B costs into player registrations or sell a sponsorship to cover the costs. Finally, you’ll need to determine if you’ll offer a grab and go/boxed lunch or a sit down meal and if you’ll distribute F&B during play or post-round. Don’t forget to ask about food allergies during registration if you’re offering F&B.

Jason Meininger: Your host golf facility should have a banquet menu for you to choose from and they can offer suggestions on what meals are good options for golf outings. Cost will also be a factor to consider.

Paul Murcek: Start with the facility hosting the event. Some will require that you use their F&B service. Other facilities may allow you to cater a meal or have a sponsor like a local restaurant provide lunch in the cart. Be sure you ask questions when outlining your contract so you and the facility are on the same page with F&B.

Golfers get food from a buffet line at a charity golf tournament.

Q: I’m trying to decide between a public facility and a country club. Is there a difference when it comes to food and beverage?

Jason Meininger: Yes, there will likely be a difference in both the quality, available options, and cost. I recommend getting menu options from private and public golf facilities so you can compare offerings and costs.

Paul Murcek: More than likely a private country club will have more top-tier options for F&B (but they’ll also come with a higher price tag).

Cash Dinkel: Most country clubs have high-level F&B operations in their facilities, which typically mean a higher quality of food and presentation. Because of that, costs are also typically much higher per person. You can also expect a higher level of service at a country club.

Golfers listen to a speaker while enjoying dinner at a charity golf tournament.

Post-golf dinner, drinks, and entertainment help enhance the overall tournament experience for golfers and sponsors.

 

Q: If my host facility doesn’t offer food and beverage, what recommendations do you have?

Paul Murcek: At the golf facilities where I worked that didn’t have F&B options, we had recommendations for several local catering companies to offer multiple price points and food options to meet the needs of all events. So definitely ask the golf facility for ideas and recommendations for caterers.

Jason Meininger: When I ran tournaments, we would work with a dedicated catering company to provide a meal for the outing, or give the organizer the choice to find their own provider. We would often see nonprofits work with a sponsor to donate a meal.

Cash Dinkel: Reach out to local restaurants and catering companies to see if they can provide the F&B the day of your event. They may even be willing to donate food and time for some extra exposure at your event. Be sure to check with the facility to see if they will allow you to bring items they don’t offer on property.

Participants in a mini golf tournament enjoy a complimentary snow cone.

Food and beverage is important at all golf events—even mini golf! Participants of all ages enjoy complimentary snow cones at this putt putt event.

 

Q: What are some ways you’ve seen of tournaments using food and beverage to enhance the tournament experience?

Jason Meininger: Some fun ones I’ve seen:

  • Bloody Mary bar on the range for morning events

  • Mobile food truck with drinks and light food

  • Kegs of beer on designated holes

  • Margarita machines on designated holes 

Cash Dinkel: F&B can really change the tournament and make it memorable for golfers and sponsors. Here are some ideas that I’ve seen work well at charity golf tournaments:

  • Coolers with water, Gatorade, and snacks on all par three holes that are free to grab.

  • Very high-end sit-down plated meals either the night before the tournament or the evening of the event.

  • Grab-and-go breakfast before the event starts, or lunch if it’s an afternoon start.

  • On-course tasting stations of food and beverages. This is great for local restaurants and caterers, and another sponsorship option.

  • Chick-fil-A delivered on the course to golfers as they were playing.

Q: Should we offer food and beverage to volunteers? What about golf staff?

Cash Dinkel: 100% for volunteers. They are donating their time and energy to help your event, so definitely make sure they have food and drink available to them throughout the tournament. It’s also nice to offer the golf staff food and beverage, but definitely not expected.

Jason Meininger: Yes, definitely to volunteers. If there’s enough available, I would offer it to golf staff as well.

Paul Murcek: In my experience, it’s a courtesy to provide food for the tournament’s volunteers, as well as the golf staff.

Golfers sit at tables for lunch before the start of a charity golf tournament.

Tournament organizers can opt for a sit-down meal or grab-and-go options.

 

Q: What is the standard range I can expect for gratuity on food and beverage at my golf tournament?

Paul Murcek: I’d say you can expect a charge of 18% to 20% on large orders at a private golf facility.

Jason Meininger: It really does vary from facility to facility, but I’ve seen 18% to 20% as a standard.

Cash Dinkel: This is totally up to the facility. Most will have gratuity built into the pricing and should be discussed before signing a contract. While I agree with my colleagues that 18-20% is a fairly standard range, be prepared for a wider range depending on the facility.

Q: Do you recommend having drink tickets, complimentary beverages (alcoholic or nonalcoholic), or a cash bar?

Cash Dinkel: Yes to any of the above. Making sure your participants have access to beverages the entire time they are at your event is a must. Most events will have a traditional cash bar. The next most popular option is giving each player one or two drink tickets with their registration, then they can pay for anything from the cash bar after using their tickets. I would say it’s not very common to have complimentary beverages, simply because of the cost. That being said, finding a sponsor to cover the cost of drink tickets for players is a great way to get that cost covered and provide an additional sponsorship opportunity.

Jason Meininger: Most events I’ve seen provide drink tickets. If you can get a sponsor for the beverage cart or bar service, then you could provide complimentary drinks.

Paul Murcek: If you can find a sponsor or sponsors to pay for complimentary drinks, this is a great way to increase the fun of the tournament and keep golfers and sponsors coming back.


Ask the Pros!

Do you have a question for GolfStatus’ PGA Professionals? Email it to [email protected] with “PGA Pro Question” in the subject line and it might be featured in a future blog post or an upcoming GolfStatus webinar!

Get started with GolfStatus at no upfront cost! Get an event website, online registration, communication tools, premium digital sponsor exposure, revenue-boosting add-ons, and more—plus access to GolfStatus’ in-house client success team (including knowledgeable PGA Professionals and fundraising specialists). Click the button to book a quick 15 or 30-minute meeting, a full demo, or get started in the software on your own!

 
 
Golf for Hope Tournament Lights Up Fundraising for Suicide Prevention
 
Four golfers pose next to golf carts decorated with glow sticks and lights at the Golf for Hope glow-in-the-dark golf tournament.

The Arizona Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is a driving force for suicide prevention, education, and support within Arizona. With a mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide, the chapter provides outreach opportunities, survivor support resources, educational prorams for schools and workplaces, and events like community walks and the annual golf fundraiser.


Our work helps people understand that they’re not alone,” Gina says. “We connect people and families who are struggling with resources to help them cope.
— Gina Gillis, Special Events Manager at the Arizona Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)

Organizers of the annual Golf for Hope tournament—Gina Gillis, the special events manager and Dave Canham, board member—have deeply personal connections to the cause. Both lost sons to suicide. Held at night to escape Arizona’s intense heat and provide a unique, engaging experience, Golf for Hope’s glow-in-the-dark format features glow-in-the-dark golf balls, illuminated pin flags, and glowing signage.

A golfer tees off using a glow-in-the-dark golf ball while golfers in a lit up golf cart look on at the Golf for Hope charity golf tournament.

As the event steadily grew from just 25 golfers in its first year 2019, so did the logistical challenges and the need for better processes and tech tools than the chapter’s CRM could provide. Gina and Dave turned to GolfStatus to streamline planning and enhance the participant experience—without incurring significant costs.

Curious about the strategies and lessons that made this glow-in-the-dark fundraiser such a success? Download the full case study to see how AFSP Arizona turned an ambitious vision and tech from GolfStatus into a standout, growing event.

 
 
Product Alert: GolfStatus Rolls Out Enhanced Golf Tournament Event Websites
 

GolfStatus’ golf tournament websites have been completely revamped, with new enhancements that give nonprofits advanced tools to streamline golf event management, engage participants, and boost fundraising efforts.

The updated site design reflects feedback and input directly from our clients and our commitment to continued innovation and improvement to help nonprofits raise mission-critical funds through golf. The new look was rolled out to all event websites powered by GolfStatus on January 20, 2025, and includes:

  • A clean, inviting interface. GolfStatus’ mobile-friendly websites engage site visitors and prompt action, whether it’s to register a team, purchase a sponsorship, or make a donation. A continued focus on mobile ensures organizations have the ability to collect funds from anyone, anywhere, anytime.

  • User-friendly navigation. The new look provides visitors with a more organized and consistent layout, clearly labeled buttons, and easy exploration throughout the site.

  • More opportunities to tell your story. The updated design gives tournament organizers even more space and options to share your cause through imagery, text, and video. Site updates can be made quickly and easily in the software’s back end.

  • Additional sponsor exposure. Sponsors enjoy increased visibility on the site’s home page that adds value to sponsorship packages.

  • Improved checkout experience. Registrants, sponsors, and donors will enjoy a more streamlined and intuitive checkout experience. A new page footer helps guide users through the registration process, showing them what information they need to complete before they can move forward in the process.

  • More visible donation calls-to-action. Organizations can take advantage of additional donation calls-to-action, specifically once registration for the event has closed, to further boost tournament revenue.

These updates complement the core functionality of GolfStatus’ event websites, designed with fundraisers in mind, that save time and offer revenue-boosting opportunities:

  • Online registration and donations with secure payment processing

  • Easy tournament marketing and promotion

  • Simple sponsor onboarding and premium digital exposure

  • Professional live leaderboards

  • The ability to quickly share tournament information and updates

As usual, GolfStatus’ in-house, responsive support team is available to help tournament organizers navigate the site’s updates and answer any questions with live support seven days a week.

 

get a free event website

Nonprofits can qualify for a free event website and no-cost access to GolfStatus’ suite of tournament management solutions through the Golf for Good program, a give-back initiative that supports organizations using golf to do good. Tournament organizers can book a demo with GolfStatus’ team to learn more and get qualified for Golf for Good or to get started in the software on their own.