by Jen Wemhoff, Communications Manager at GolfStatus

Planning a golf tournament is no small task. From registration to logistics and sponsorships to scoring, there’s a lot to manage, and plenty of opportunities for things to get unnecessarily complicated.

But—there’s good news for tournament organizers. Modern golf-specific tech has completely changed the game, streamlining planning, improving communication, enhancing the golfer experience, and, best of all, increasing fundraising revenue. Whether you’re just jumping into golf fundraising or need a way to boost efficiency for an existing tournament, here are 10 ways tournament tech makes planning and running a successful golf fundraiser easier and more impactful than ever.

Tech not only makes planning and executing a golf fundraiser easy and efficient, it elevates the tournament experience for golfers.

1. It Keeps Everyone On the Same Page

Golf tournaments have more moving parts than most fundraising events. A golf-specific platform organizes every detail—handicaps, hole assignments, sponsorships, and pairings—and keeps it in one easily accessible place. That means no bouncing between tools, spreadsheets, texts, or email chains. Everyone, including your planning team, volunteers, and even the golf facility, all work from the same real-time information. This means less work, fewer mistakes, and hours of manual effort eliminated.

2. Registration Becomes Streamlined, Accurate & Error-Free

Paper forms, mailed checks, handwritten credit card information, and Venmos all leave room for lost data and frustrated donors and organizers. An event website with online registration and secure payment processing fixes all of that.

Players and sponsors sign up with just a few clicks, and their details flow directly into your platform—with no time and effort required on your part. You get complete, accurate golfer and sponsor information every time, and supporters enjoy a smooth experience from the start.

3. Duplicate Work & Siloed Information Are No More

Committees and volunteers are essential, but without the right management tool, they can unintentionally create duplicative work or inconsistent data. A web-based platform ensures your whole team can collaborate in real time, so everyone sees the same golfer, sponsor, and payment information. This makes planning responsibilities easier to delegate, and no single person has to carry the administrative burden.

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Golf Tournament Fundraiser Checklist & Planning Timeline

Download this free template to get a comprehensive planning checklist, complete with suggested due dates based on your time to plan. Map out and delegate your team’s to-dos to keep everyone on task and on target.

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4. Golf-Specific Details Are Handled (No Golf Knowledge Required)

Details like format, mulligans, handicaps, flights, tie-breakers, and skins are unique to golf and can be confusing, especially if you’re not a golfer. Tech designed for golf events walks you through the details so nothing gets overlooked. Even first-timers can confidently plan and execute a professional, well-structured event with the support of a platform built for golf.

Just as important as the tech itself is the team that supports it. Your golf event management platform should be backed by a knowledgeable, responsible team of golf fundraising experts. Beyond answering questions about the platform, the team should be able to offer guidance on everything from choosing a format to building sponsorship packages—at no additional cost.

5. Live Scoring Makes the Round More Fun & Engaging

Replacing paper scorecards with digital live scoring comes with a ton of upsides. Not only does it eliminate scoring errors and long waits for final results, but it also keeps golfers engaged and excited throughout the tournament. Golfers enter their scores on a mobile scoring app, which syncs to live leaderboards. Because golfers can check the standings every time they enter a score, the tournament becomes more exciting. And—sponsors get yet another digital touchpoint.

Golf facility staff benefit, too. They no longer need to tally scores manually or hunt down missing scorecards at the end of the round. Post-flighting and tie-breakers can be done with just a click, so you can announce the winners sooner and move on to the post-golf festivities.

Live scoring keeps golfers engaged throughout the round and makes finalizing the tournament’s results quick and easy.

6. Sponsors Get More, Better Exposure

Sponsors are the revenue powerhouse of golf fundraisers, and technology makes their support even more valuable. Digital exposure extends exposure far beyond traditional day-of placements. Your software should offer digital sponsor touchpoints throughout the platform, including:

• The event website

• The live scoring mobile app

• Mobile scorecards

• Push notifications and in-app messaging

• Live leaderboards

• Printed cart signs, scorecards, and reports

Sponsors can also upload their own logos and links at registration, saving your team (and the sponsor) time. Better exposure means better ROI, which makes sponsorships easier to sell and renew year over year.

With a golf event management platform, sponsors earn impressions with every visit to the tournament website.

7. Tech Unlocks New Fundraising Streams

A modern platform shouldn’t just make planning easier; it should also increase your tournament’s bottom line. Look for tech that enables:

• Online donations before, during, and after the tournament

• A donation tracker to show progress toward donation goals

• Selling add-ons like mulligans, raffle tickets, and on-course game entry in one checkout flow

• Round-up donations at checkout

• Digital sponsorship opportunities and exposure

• Online auction capabilities

You should also look for other tournament add-ons that help drive even more income, like custom pin flags, hole-in-one contests, and signage.

These revenue boosts add up, bringing in thousands of extra dollars without adding a mountain of work for you and your planning team.

8. Communication Becomes Instant, Targeted & Reliable

Communication can be a challenge for golf events. Outdated email lists, last-minute updates, weather delays, or rule changes can lead to confusion. Tech centralizes your messaging, allowing updates to reach participants sooner. Look for a platform that has communication tools baked in:

• Automated confirmation emails and receipts

• Event-wide email blasts

• Live scoring app notifications

• In-app messaging

• Easy event website updates

Beyond just sharing updates, these communication tools can be used to promote contests, auction items, raffle prizes, donation goal statuses, sponsor messages, and mission information.

9. It Doesn’t Come With a Huge Price Tag

Many nonprofits assume purpose-built tech is out of reach, but mission-driven software solutions are built specifically to fit nonprofit budgets. Because the right tool helps you become more efficient and raise more in sponsorships, registrations, and donations, it typically delivers more in value than in costs.

Even better, some offer no upfront cost access that makes adopting technology a financial win instead of an expense. Look for options to pass processing fees onto registrants, win-win add-on pricing, and cost transparency.

Golf event management tech doesn’t have to come with a huge price tag or line item in your budget!

10. You Save Time This Year—And Next Year Too

Tournament tech pays dividends long after the event ends. When your outing wraps, you can:

• Export donor and participant data to include in your CRM

• Quickly begin donor stewardship, participant thank yous, and sponsor reporting

• Copy your event with a few clicks to launch next year’s tournament

• Keep your audience engaged with early save-the-dates

Because everything is documented and organized, each year gets easier and more efficient than the last.

Final Thoughts

Technology makes golf fundraisers easier, more efficient, and more profitable for organizations and tournaments of all types and sizes. When you pair the fundraising power of the golf event with golf-specific tech, you get a streamlined planning process, stronger donor engagement, happier sponsors, and bigger revenue potential.

In short, tech lets you do more good with less effort, setting your golf tournament up for long-term growth and success to help power your mission.

Work With the Golf Fundraising Experts at No Upfront Cost

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by Logan Foote, Sales and Education Director at GolfStatus

Golf tournaments remain one of the most reliable, flexible, and mission-boosting events in a nonprofit’s fundraising portfolio. Golf’s popularity continues to trend upwards, and donor expectations are shifting towards convenience and meaningful experiences, which means organizations should rethink how they build, promote, and elevate their golf fundraisers.

Golf tournaments will continue to be a fun, meaningful way to raise funds and connect with donors in the coming year.

Heading into 2026, several key trends are shaping how nonprofits plan and execute successful golf events. Here are the biggest shifts to watch, and how to put them into action for your own tournament in the year ahead.

1. Convenience will become a core part of the donor experience

Today’s supporters value convenience just as much as they value impact. Whether they’re registering to play, making a gift, or participating in on-course activities, donors expect a simple, seamless experience that works on their schedule—and their device.

Modern golf fundraisers will be increasingly focused on removing friction from the giving and registration process. That means:

• Clear, concise event websites

• Mobile-friendly registration

• Straightforward pricing

• Minimal steps to complete a purchase or donation

• Digital receipts and instant confirmations

The easier you make it to sign up, the faster your field will fill. And the easier you make it for people to give, the more likely they are to do so. Convenience isn’t just a better experience for supporters, it’s a driver of increased participation and revenue.

2. Tournaments will find ways to reduce payment friction

Cash is becoming far less common, especially among younger donors and golfers. In-person fundraising activities on tournament day—mulligans, raffle tickets, contests, auctions, and on-course games—can all suffer when supporters don’t have an easy way to pay.

In 2026, more tournaments will turn to payment options that reduce donation friction and increase participation. Quick-scan QR codes, saved payment methods, and mobile check-out pages ensure golfers can contribute in seconds without digging for credit cards or carrying cash in their golf bags.

These small upgrades can create a major bump in revenue. If giving is effortless, more golfers will jump in, resulting in higher totals across contests, raffles, and tournament-day fundraising.

Mobile payments increase convenience and reduce barriers to making a donation and purchasing add-ons on tournament day.

3. Donors will respond to clear calls to action

In a crowded fundraising landscape, clarity matters. Nonprofits are discovering that golfers and supporters respond best when they know exactly what they’re being asked to do—and why it matters.

Strong, effective calls to action (CTAs) are:

• Specific: Provide a clear directive, such as “Become a hole sponsor for $250.”

• Visible: CTAs should be featured prominently on your event website and marketing materials.

• Intuitive: Make CTAs relative to the golf event, such as “Register a team,” “Donate now,” or “Purchase mulligans.”

• Mission-focused: Include the impact of the action, such as “Your support provides three months of meals for local families.”

Strong CTAs guide supporters through the experience, starting with browsing your event site and ending with giving again on tournament day. Whether they’re displayed on your event website, shared via social media and email, or printed on signage at the course, CTAs will play a big role in motivating supporters and driving action.

4. Donors will want simple, accessible ways to support your cause

Even when supporters believe strongly in your mission, they may not always make the leap to register a team or become a sponsor for your golf event. They may feel busy, unsure of their golf ability, or simply prefer smaller commitments.

That’s why more nonprofits will build more accessible ways for people to give during their golf events, including:

• Add-on donations during registration

• Mobile giving links shared before, during, and after the event

• Donation trackers to show golfers the progress toward your goals

• Event opportunities for non-golfers, such as raffles, auctions, entertainment, or social events

• Live leaderboard donation options

• Sponsor-funded matching gifts

When you give donors a simple path to supporting your mission, engagement rises—and so does revenue.

Your event website should include a tracker to help golfers see how you’re progressing towards your tournament’s donation goals.

5. Nonprofits will add a second golf event (often with a new format)

Because golf has become such a dependable fundraising channel, nonprofits are recognizing that one tournament may not be enough. Many organizations are introducing a second golf fundraiser, often in the offseason, to reach new audiences, test new formats, and generate additional revenue without heavy planning demands.

Popular options include:

• TopGolf for driving-range style outings to engage golfers and non-golfers

• Mini golf tournaments are great for reaching families and all ages

• Indoor simulator events for a weather-proof option for colder climates

• Short-format nine-hole tournaments for a shorter time commitment

• Unique themes, such as a glow golf event

These formats can be easier to host, less resource-intensive, and highly appealing for supporters who may not want to commit to a full 18-hole outing. They’re also a great way to attract new donors who may later join in on your larger annual golf fundraiser.

Fun themes, such as a glow golf event, give nonprofits options when considering holding a secondary golf event in 2026.

6. revenue enhancers will become essential for tournament growth

As nonprofits aim to raise more through their golf events, organizers are doubling down on reliable revenue enhancers—add-ons that create a more engaging golfer experience while increasing fundraising totals.

Some of the biggest revenue drivers heading into 2026 include:

Hole-In-One Contests

A well-promoted hole-in-one contest, with attractive prizes, draws excitement and teams to your event. With the right hole-in-one insurance in place, you can offer high-value prizes like cash or golf trips without financial risk.

Hole Signs

High-quality signage not only recognizes sponsors but also gives your tournament a polished feel. Fun designs, custom messaging, directional markers, and QR codes add impact and increase sponsor satisfaction.

Pin Flags

Custom, branded pin flags, whether with a sponsor logo or your nonprofit’s, create a premium look on the course. They deliver high visibility to your partners and can even be auctioned or sold after the event for added revenue.

Digital Sponsorships

Digital exposure gives sponsors more ROI, move visibility, and more engagement to keep them coming back to support your tournament in the future. Best of all, digital sponsorships don’t come with materials costs (like banners, t-shirts, or golf balls), so more dollars go to your cause.

On-Course Games and Challenges

Putting contests, longest drive competitions, beat-the-pro challenges, and mission-related on-course games entertain players while generating income throughout the round.

Tournament organizers are learning that the right mix of enhancements can add thousands of extra dollars without requiring major changes to the core event.

7. Sponsorship packages will get sweeter & be more flexible

Corporate and business partners are one of the most important revenue sources in golf fundraising, and their expectations are evolving. Sponsors want visibility, but they also want alignment, engagement, and opportunities to activate their brands.

To meet those needs, nonprofits will look to refresh their sponsorship offerings with:

• Multiple pricing levels to fit different budgets

• High-end opportunities like pin flag sponsorships, contest sponsorships, or technology-based exposure

• More tailored benefits, such as digital exposure, exclusive experiences, and brand placements

• Flexible packages that give sponsors control over how they’re showcased

• Co-branded or marketing assets that sponsors can share on their own channels

The more value your sponsorship packages can deliver, the more likely sponsors are to return in subsequent years and even increase their support.

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Need Sponsorship Package Ideas? Download this Free Guide!

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What’s NExt?

Golf fundraisers have always been powerful community-builders and mission drivers. But as donor experiences evolve, nonprofits must also evolve. By embracing convenience, simplifying giving, offering flexible sponsorships, and expanding into new golf formats, nonprofits can build events that resonate with supporters and raise more money year after year.

These 2026 trends point toward a future where golf remains one of the most impactful, sustainable, and enjoyable ways to connect people to your cause. Whether you’re a first-time planner or exploring how to elevate a long-running event, GolfStatus’ tech, support, and resources will help you save time and raise more money.

Save Time and Raise More Money in 2026 and Beyond

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by Jen Wemhoff, Communications Manager at GolfStatus

If you’re looking for a fresh idea to engage employees, clients, and the community at large while raising awareness about your brand in a unique and meaningful way, a corporate golf event is the perfect answer. Corporate golf outings—especially when they’re well-managed and organized—offer a variety of positive outcomes for a company.

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table of contents

Corporate Golf Events FAQ
How to Host a Corporate Golf Event
Powering Corporate Golf Events with GolfStatus

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Learn How to Plan a Corporate Golf Event

Corporate Golf Events FAQ

What is a Corporate Golf Event?

A corporate golf event is a tournament or outing planned and hosted by a business. Corporate events often raise money for a corporate foundation or favorite nonprofit, but don’t have to include a charitable component. Such events are used as an opportunity for team-building across departments, to entertain clients or prospects, or as a give-back initiative.

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Corporate Event Case Study: Credit Unions for Kids Golf Classic

Hosts: US Community Credit Union and Engbright Credit Union

Beneficiary: Monroe Carrell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt

Outcomes: Raised $50,000 for patient financial assistance and built community connections.

Specifics: Hosts sold sponsorships to partners, vendors, and associations that share an interest in the cause. Golfers represented sponsors, employees from the hosts and competing credit unions, city council members, and hospital staff. Patients and administrators attended to connect golfers with the “why” behind the event.

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What Are the Benefits of Corporate Golf Events?

• Enhance Corporate Social Responsibility. A corporate golf outing that benefits a charity or cause is a great addition to your company’s CSR portfolio. This could mean connecting with an existing golf event to support it as a sponsor, or taking it a step further and hosting your own corporate event benefiting a charity.

• Connect With Your Community. Golf has deep ties to the nonprofit sector, raising $4.6 billion for charity annually and bringing people together in a memorable way to raise funds for a good cause. Invite targeted community members, staff or beneficiaries from the charity the outing will raise money for, or focus on your business’s employees and customers. 

• Get a Competitive Edge. A golf event helps set your brand apart, giving you four or five focused hours of facetime with colleagues, vendors, clients, or prospects. 

• Boost Employee Engagement. Businesses need to find ways to attract and retain top talent, which means demonstrating that business priorities include more than just the bottom line. Use a golf outing to engage and reward employees, build morale, encourage retention, and give back.

How to Host a Corporate Golf Event

If you’ve never planned a golf tournament before or don’t know much about the sport, don’t worry—you can still hold a professional, memorable event. Here’s how:

1. Use the Right Tools

It’s likely that planning a company golf outing isn’t your full-time job or something you do regularly, so you might not know where to start or how to maximize efficiencies. Most event management systems aren’t able to intuitively manage the details of a golf outing (hole assignments, player pairings, scoring and leaderboards, flighting, handicaps) so look for one that’s built specifically for golf tournaments and includes:

• Online Registration. This is a must-have—golfers seamlessly submit their information and payment online, saving hours of dealing with spreadsheets, checks, and receipts. 

• Customizable Event Website. The site should present your event in a professional light and make it simple to promote, provide digital sponsor exposure, and share updates.

• Shared Access. Registration information should populate into the platform’s back end, where it’s accessible in one place by organizers and even staff at the golf facility. 

• Communication Tools. The platform should have built-in communication tools, like emails and push notifications, to quickly and easily communicate with registrants.

• Pre-formatted Printouts. Use a platform that comes with pre-formatted, professional printouts like branded cart signs and scorecards.

• Live-scoring & Leaderboards. Golfers submit scores with an easy-to-use mobile app that syncs to live leaderboards and allows teams to track current standings.

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Use the Best Tool for Your Golf Event: GolfStatus

Online registration is non-negotiable when planning a corporate golf event. It gives the event and your brand a professional feel and is a time-saver for tournament planners.

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2. Set Goals & Form a Planning Team

The goals for the event will help other key details fall into place, so start by thinking through what you hope to accomplish. Keep in mind that goals don’t have to be mutually exclusive—you can engage employees while also raising money for charity. 

Form a planning team of five to 10 people to help carry the load. Include employees, partners, and even a representative from the nonprofit partner (if your outing includes a fundraising component) to help plan and execute the tournament. Identify roles and responsibilities to ensure everyone is on the same page.

3. Establish a Budget

Your goals will help inform your budget. If you’re raising money for a charity, your budget will likely look different than if your main focus is employee engagement or entertaining clients. 

• Start by outlining the major costs—greens fees, cart rental, food and beverage, and player gifts. Other costs might include marketing, entertainment, awards, and hole-in-one insurance.

• Next, identify sources of income, such as golfer registration fees, sponsorships, mulligan sales, on-course game entries, merchandise sales, raffle tickets, or an auction. If your outing’s goal doesn’t include fundraising, you likely won’t have to prioritize revenue.

• Finally, build sponsorship packages to cover hard costs (unless you have a dedicated budget that includes line items for all costs). Offer a variety of options at different price points to entice businesses to commit and include benefits that provide high ROI.

4. Determine Details & Logistics

Once your budget is outlined, you can move on to determining other core event logistics. Start by choosing the host golf facility, date and time, and format. The vast majority of corporate events are scrambles, which are attractive to golfers of all skill levels. Then move on to other details, including:

• Event schedule

• Marketing strategy

• Contingency plan for inclement weather

• Prizes and awards

• Team pairings

• Hole assignments

• Add-on activities and contests, such as on-course games, hole-in-one contests, raffle drawings, or a live or silent auction

5. Promote the Corporate Golf Event

How you get the word out depends on the target audience. If the tournament is open to employees, include a link to the event website in internal newsletters or mention it in company meetings. If it’s open to the community, send promotional emails, include it in client newsletters, and mention it on your social media channels. If you’re raising money for a nonprofit, work with them to promote the tournament to their supporter base.

Consider drumming up some positive PR for your company and what the event is raising money for, if you include a charitable component. Invite members of the press and the community to participate and work together to raise awareness for a good cause (and give your brand a substantial lift).

6. Provide a Memorable Event Experience

What sets a great event apart from a good event is the overall experience. Folks will remember if the event was chaotic and plagued with snafus or if it ran smoothly. Using tech tools to manage the event frees golf facility staff up to assist golfers instead of scrambling to handle last-minute tasks and helps you stay organized to execute a seamless event. 

Yes, your event needs to be well-run, but it should also offer a memorable, top-notch experience that advances business goals: 

• Include add-ons and extras like contests, on-course games and entertainment, auctions, and custom player gifts.

• Live score the event to add an element of professionalism and let spectators (as well as event organizers who are tracking the round’s progress to facilitate post-round events) follow along on live leaderboards. 

• Build in ways to connect with employees and/or clients, such as through a pre- or post-round meal or reception, on-course interactions, the opportunity to volunteer, or informal networking. 

• Be strategic with hole assignments to further business objectives. For example, you may want to pair your company’s top executives with their counterparts from a partner or prospective client to talk business and potentially even close deals. Or group staff or board members from the benefiting charity with potential partners or donors to help advance their mission and open doors for additional support.

• Use pin flags and hole signs to recognize sponsors, partners, or nonprofit supporters with excellent on-course visibility.

7. Track & Report Event Data

It’s important to demonstrate the success and impact of the event to prove its value to decision makers in your company and your commitment to giving back (if your tournament includes fundraising). Fold data into an impact report that you share with decision-makers and stakeholders. Your golf event management platform should include robust reporting that helps you see at a glance:

• The number of teams or individual golfers

• The number of sponsors

• Dollars processed through online registration and donations

Gather further information to gauge the event’s success by:

• Sending surveys to collect feedback and gauge the event’s impact on employee satisfaction

• Having informal conversations to see what they liked and how you can improve

• Meeting with the benefiting nonprofit to determine fundraising outcomes and next steps for donor stewardship

8. Nurture Relationships

Keep the goodwill going post-outing. Follow up with key clients and partners who attended. Use the conversations from the course as a foundation to thank them and continue the business relationship. Be sure to send a thank-you note and post-event report to all sponsors. Include data on the event's success, photos, and testimonials to prove the event’s value and help secure their participation for next year.

If your corporate golf event becomes an annual tradition, consider tracking and analyzing long-term trends, such as employee retention and the event’s impact on the company’s culture.

9. Look Ahead to Next Year

While the positive feedback from the outing is still fresh, use the data and relationships to lock in key players for the following year. After you get the approval from leadership to hold the outing again next year, re-engage your planning team while they are still in event mode to lock in their commitment, then connect with the golf facility to get first dibs on your preferred date. If you had sponsors, follow up with them after sending your post-event report to offer them an early-bird incentive to secure their commitment for next year. 

Your event management platform should make it easy to copy your event so you don’t have to start from scratch. Simply update a few key details and your event website is ready to go!

Powering Corporate Golf Events with GolfStatus

Whether you’re at a Fortune 500 company, a socially responsible local business, or a corporate foundation raising money for a dedicated cause, GolfStatus’ golf event management and fundraising platform is the solution for the best event possible.  

GolfStatus’ powerful, user-friendly tech saves organizers time and effort, helps raise more money, boosts your brand, and ensures a professionally planned and executed tournament from start to finish. Get a professional event website, golf-specific tools and features, sponsorships and add-ons, and a dedicated client success rep to coach you along the way. Book a meeting to get started!

Use the Tech That’s Built for Golf Events

Click Here to Book a Meeting With GolfStatus

About the Author

Jen Wemhoff - Communications Manager at GolfStatus

Jen Wemhoff accidentally discovered her passion for nonprofits in college. An internship while earning a degree in Communications from Doane University led to a 20 year career in the nonprofit sector, where she found a strong desire to be part of something bigger than herself. Her vast nonprofit experience includes roles in marketing, fundraising, and direct programming. When Jen came to GolfStatus as Communications Manager in 2020, she was struck by the power of the sport to raise money to power nonprofit missions. She tells GolfStatus’s story across platforms and channels and develops educational tools and resources to help nonprofits tap into golf’s giving power. Jen, her husband, and two daughters call Lincoln, Nebraska home.

by Andrew Herbert, VP of Charity Golf International

Since 2019, Andrew Herbert of Charity Golf International has helped raise over $3.5 million for charities through golf events.

When it comes to hosting a successful charity golf event, the difference between a good outing and a truly impactful one lies in the strategic approach to fundraising. After supporting thousands of charity golf events and helping organizations raise well over $125 million since 2012, Charity Golf International has learned that the most successful events share three key characteristics:

1. Educating golfers about the mission

2. Celebrate the act of giving

3. Employing a "less is more" approach to fundraising

This guide will explore these characteristics and show you how to effectively apply them to your next charity golf tournament.

1. Educating golfers on the mission of giving

The foundation of any successful charity golf event starts with emotionally connecting your guests to your cause. This goes far beyond simply stating what your organization does—it's about creating genuine connections that inspire action.

Make the Mission Personal and Tangible

• Start with storytelling. Share real beneficiary stories that resonate on a human level. If possible, bring beneficiaries of your work to the event so they can mingle with guests and sponsors, putting a face to the cause they're supporting.

• Use specific dollar amounts to demonstrate impact: "$25 provides a meal for a family of four." This specificity helps donors understand exactly how their contribution will make a difference.

• Create displays that showcase your work in action. Display your fundraising goals prominently and show guests how close you are to achieving them throughout the day.

• Transform hole sponsor signs into mission-focused messaging. Display the sponsor's logo prominently, and add compelling facts about your cause underneath.

Communicate Throughout the Event

• Mission education shouldn't be a one-time announcement. Weave your message throughout the entire event experience.

• Dedicate a few minutes of your welcome speech to mission education.

• Include mission messaging in cart signage and swag items.

• Have staff and beneficiaries available to chat with guests about mission experiences throughout the day.

• Use the awards ceremony to reinforce the day's impact and celebrate both your efforts and the generosity of everyone involved.

Create Relevance to Golfers and Guests

Connect your charity's work to the local community where your golfers live and work, helping them understand how the community and beneficiaries will recognize their contributions and the lasting impact they'll have.

• Share specifically how funds raised at this event will be used. Donors want to see a direct connection between their money and what it will accomplish.

• Provide impact reports from previous years' events or organizational milestones.

• Create urgency by highlighting current needs, new initiatives, and opportunities to support or match previous successes.

Charity Golf International has experience working with charities and golf events of all types and sizes, helping elevate financial results while delivering an engaging and unforgettable on-course experience for golfers.

Pro tip: less pressure, more invitation

Frame donations as "opportunities to make a difference" rather than obligations. Use inclusive language, such as "We have an opportunity today to achieve X together" and "With your help, we have no doubt we’ll reach our goal today," that invite people to give, rather than pressure-filled phrases like "We need you to do this" or "We can't do X unless you do Y.”

Remember that a great experience leads to future support and referrals. The goal here is to make your event the best one on your guests' calendars. Simply put: trust that educated, engaged golfers will give when they understand the impact. Create memories and experiences alongside the act of giving, and the funds will follow.

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See How Much Charity Golf International Can Help You Raise

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2. Emphasizing and celebrating the act of donating

Establish Positive Donation Experiences

The way your organization handles donations can transform the entire giving experience, taking it from a transaction to a celebration.

• Thank donors immediately and publicly when appropriate. Help create proud moments for them!

• Use celebration language like "What an amazing contribution!", "With this donation, we’re now at $X overall today!”, or “This means so much to our team and mission!” Make every donation a celebration of generosity.

• Provide instant gratification by showing running totals, a progress bar, or thermometer displays. This helps make donating feel like winning, rather than giving away money.

Use Recognition Strategies

It’s crucial to express your appreciation to donors for their support of your cause. At your golf event:

• Announce major donations during dinner or after golf. Let guests know there are heroes among them, which may inspire others to step up and contribute more.

• Provide donor recognition with small tokens of appreciation (ball markers, pins, stickers, etc.) that serve as proud reminders of their contribution.

• Take photos of donors making their contributions and share on social media (with permission) so they can see your gratitude and proudly share their generosity with their networks.

Leverage Social Proof to Gain Momentum

Social proof is how people look to the actions and behaviors of others to determine how they should act. This can be especially useful in fundraising—when people see their peers donating, it often prompts them to do the same.

• Share when others have donated: "Team 8 with Company X just donated $500!" This creates social proof and can spark friendly competition between foursomes or companies.

• Use motivating phrases like "We're well on our way to our goal today, help us keep the momentum going!" or "We're close to a new record in fundraising—let’s break that record together!"

• Display real-time fundraising totals to build excitement and provide tangible donation goals throughout event day.

Charity Golf International suggests offering two to three giving activations during the round.

3. The “less is more” approach

Quality Over Quantity Principle

The most successful charity golf events that Charity Golf International supports understand that fewer, higher-impact fundraising moments are far more effective than constant asks.

• Focus on two to three strategic points during the event for major fundraising pushes. Most successful events we support have one or two professional fundraising activations on the course (like Charity Golf International’s Par 5 and Par 3 Pros), along with a small internally run game. You can certainly include additional activities, but we recommend including them in registration fees.

• Make each ask meaningful and well-timed.

  • Pre-round: A light introduction to giving opportunities, such as mulligans, 50/50 raffle tickets, or auctions.

  • Mid-round: One to two well-placed, high-energy fundraising moments, like professional fundraisers or on-course games.

  • Post-round: Major fundraising push when golfers are relaxed and social to help meet or exceed goals.

• Avoid stacking activations. Try to space them out to prevent fundraising fatigue and maintain positive energy for your guests.

Simplify the Giving Process

Remove as many barriers to giving as possible. Offer a simple, hassle-free process and make your asks specific and tangible.

• Offer clear donation levels rather than a generic and vague ask.

• Use round numbers that make sense to you and your guests.

• Spend 80% of your time explaining what donations accomplish and only 20% on logistics, letting the mission sell itself rather than over-explaining the need for donations.

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pro tip: partner with experts

As you may very well know, GolfStatus handles all registration, payment processing, sponsor management, and real-time tracking of your outing. Charity Golf International provides the on-course entertainment and fundraising expertise that creates memorable experiences, allowing you to focus on what matters most: connecting with your guests and advancing your mission during the outing.

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Charity Golf International brings premium prizes to golf events, plus fundraising experience.

Charity Golf International’s partnership with GolfStatus eliminates common pain points of charity golf event management while maximizing both the guest experience and fundraising potential.

When GolfStatus and Charity Golf International work together on your event, the result is simple and clear—your guests will eagerly anticipate the outing year after year, sponsors will see real value in their investment while appreciating your efforts, and organizations like yours consistently exceed their fundraising goals.

Ready to take your charity golf event to the next level? The tools, strategies, and partnerships are all here—now it's time to create something truly impactful together.

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Work With GolfStatus & Charity Golf International for Your Next Golf Fundraiser

Charity Golf International is the leader in on-course fundraising and entertainment, providing proven methods to charities and organizations. Its pros are well-versed in nonprofit fundraising and bring high-energy, high-impact to golf tournaments.

Combining Charity Golf International’s on-course fundraising expertise with GolfStatus’ tech, revenue enhancers, and support maximizes your tournament’s impact to raise mission-critical funds, connect with donors, and share information about your work. Get started with GolfStatus at no upfront cost by booking a meeting with a golf fundraising expert.

by Jen Wemhoff, Communications Manager at GolfStatus

If you’ve ever thought about hosting a charity golf tournament but immediately felt overwhelmed by the idea, you’re definitely not alone. In fact, many event planners are scared of tackling a golf event because they assume it’s complicated, expensive, or requires deep knowledge of the sport.

The truth is, planning a golf tournament isn’t as scary as you might think. With the right tools, resources, and support on your side, even small teams and first-timers can pull off a successful, profitable event that their supporters love. Here’s why.

Planning a golf tournament doesn’t have to be scary!

The Right Tools Save Time & Effort

In the past, tournament organizers had nightmares about spreadsheets, paper registrations, phone calls, and handwritten scorecards. Today, technology takes care of the heavy lifting. Modern golf event management platforms streamline everything from registration to sponsorships to live scoring. Such tools automate tedious tasks so you can focus on big-picture planning.

Instead of spending countless hours creating and sending mailers, figuring out how to accept credit card payments, and trying to keep your planning team up to date, lean on tech to quickly and easily:

• Set up a branded event website with online registration and secure payment processing

• Build sponsorship packages and collect logos and assets

• Track players, teams, and sponsors

• Display live leaderboards at the golf facility and online

• Automate receipts, reminders, and thank you emails

• Share access with your planning team and the golf facility

All of this means you can plan and manage a golf tournament in less time. And because everything lives in one centralized, easily accessible platform, you can easily keep everyone organized and on the same page.

In short: you don’t need to be a golf pro or tech expert to be successful; you just need the right tools.

You won’t have nightmares about your golf tournament when using the right tools.

You Don’t Need Startup Funds

Many would-be event planners worry that a golf event requires significant upfront investment. But with smart planning, your tournament can pay for itself (and then some!).

Charity golf events typically see the bulk of their revenue from sponsorships rather than player fees. Sponsors are drawn to golf tournaments because they offer high visibility, engagement, and networking in a fun, relaxed atmosphere that allows them to connect with potential clients.

When building your team and sponsor packages, be sure to cover all your costs and build in additional revenue to go towards your cause. Build sponsorship packages at tiered price points that clearly outline benefits. For example:

• Title Sponsor ($5,000): Event naming rights, logo on all materials, prime logo exposure on the event website home page and live leaderboards, one complimentary team

• Pin Flag Sponsor ($3,000): Logo on branded pin flags on each hole, logo on event website, one complimentary team

• Hole-In-One Contest Sponsor ($1,000): Logo on contest holes, opportunity to be present at the hole to engage with golfers, logo on event website

• Hole Sponsor ($500): Signage at one hole, logo exposure in the live scoring app, logo on event website

Target local businesses, corporate partners, and long-time supporters to play in or sponsor the tournament, and start your outreach as early as possible. Use the funds that come in from teams and sponsorships to cover any invoices or costs as planning progresses.

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On-Demand WebinaR

No Budget? No Problem! How to Launch a Golf Tournament with $0

Learn how to start a golf tournament fundraiser that not only doesn’t break the bank, but drives revenue for your mission. Get actionable tools, ideas, and strategies to help you hit the ground running.

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You Don’t Have to Go It Alone

No one expects you to plan a golf tournament from scratch without any support. In fact, help is everywhere if you know where to look.

The host golf facility is a great resource for helping you choose a date and format, and handle logistics such as start time, contests, and set up. Golf facilities rely on charity golf tournaments as part of their bottom line and are there to help you be successful.

Your golf event management platform should also give you access to golf fundraising experts who know the ins and outs of golf fundraisers. They can help walk you through setting up your golf tournament website, answer questions, and coach you on sponsorships, contests, and event-day logistics.

Don’t overlook your organization’s staff, board, and volunteers. Many likely have golf experience and community connections that can help you recruit golfers and sponsors. Delegate tasks like registration, coordinating the raffle or auction, and running on-course games or contests so you can focus on creating an exceptional experience.

Golfers are a generous bunch and jump at the chance to play golf for an important cause.

Golfers Love Playing for a Cause

Golfers are a generous, loyal, and community-minded group. When you invite them to play in a charity golf tournament, you’re offering more than just a round of golf—you’re giving them the opportunity to support a cause they care about while doing something they enjoy.

If your nonprofit’s supporters aren’t avid golfers, don’t fret. People are generally excited to join a day of fun with friends or colleagues, especially when it’s for a good cause. Beginner-friendly formats like scrambles make your tournament accessible for newbies while still keeping things fun and competitive for more seasoned players.

What’s more, golfers tend to come back year after year, especially when the tournament is well-run and they have a great time, and often bring others with them to learn about and support your mission.

Your Event Can Grow With You

One of the best parts of golf fundraisers is that they can grow with you. You can start small, as you get your footing and gain some experience, and build from there. Once you’ve run your first event, you’ll have templates, sponsor relationships, and processes you can use again and again.

Over time, many nonprofits turn their golf tournaments into annual signature fundraising events that raise thousands of dollars each year. And because golf events combine fundraising, networking, and donor engagement, they often become one of the most valuable events on a nonprofit’s calendar.

Don’t be afraid to start small and scale the tournament as you gain experience.

You’ll Have Fun, Too!

Yes, planning any successful fundraiser takes work, but golf tournaments have a way of reminding you why you do this.

On tournament day, you’ll see donors and sponsors connecting, volunteers smiling, and supporters having a great time, all while making a real impact for your mission. There’s something special about watching the tournament come together after months of planning and knowing that you helped make it happen.

And once you’ve planned one, you’ll realize it wasn’t nearly as scary as it first seemed.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let fear or inexperience keep you from tapping into one of the most successful and sustainable fundraising event models available to nonprofits. With the right tools, mindset, and support, you can plan a professional, lucrative golf event that strengthens relationships, builds community, and advances your mission.

When you’re ready to get started, GolfStatus makes it simple to plan, manage, and grow your golf fundraiser from start to finish. Intuitive software, in-house golf fundraising experts, and planning resources turn planning a golf tournament from something scary into an opportunity waiting to happen. Find out how you can get started at no upfront cost by booking a meeting with the GolfStatus team.

by Jen Wemhoff, Communications Manager at GolfStatus

Nonprofit golf event organizers are always looking for new and creative ways to boost fundraising, provide sponsors with real value, and deliver a memorable tournament experience for participants. Fortunately, there’s one tournament extra that does all three: pin flags.

Pin flags are one of the most visible—and versatile—sponsorships your tournament can offer. Why? They offer sponsors and your nonprofit unparalleled branding opportunities, elevate the look and feel of your tournament, and perhaps most importantly, create new ways to raise dollars for your cause.

Here are six reasons why you should add a pin flag sponsorship to your next charity golf tournament.

1. New Golf Tournament Sponsorship Option

To build on success, it’s essential for charity golf tournament organizers to continually add value and increase revenue every year. If your tournament has consistently sold out sponsorships and you want to expand offerings, pin flags are a great choice for tournaments of all types and sizes.

Plus, pin flags are flexible. You don’t have to offer them as a one-size-fits-all package. Instead, you can structure them in different ways that meet your fundraising goals, tournament needs, and sponsor budgets. Some common approaches include:

• One sponsor for all 18 holes. This is perhaps the most common approach, and is a great option for a major sponsor who wants maximum visibility.

• Split the course. Sell sponsorships for the front and back nine separately, giving two mid-level sponsors the chance to stand out.

• Individual hole sponsorships. Give multiple businesses the chance to sponsor a single hole with a pin flag, spreading opportunity across a larger group of supporters.

2. premium visibility across the course

Pin flags are found on every single green and are the focal point of every single hole. That means that sponsor logos and branding are front and center as golfers approach and finish each hole. Put simply, pin flags demand attention!

Even smaller-scale events like mini golf fundraisers or simulator-based events can benefit from this exposure. Pin flags (or creative adaptations of them) are highly visible branding opportunities that make an impression no matter the format of your event.

The visibility offered by pin flags is especially attractive to sponsors who want more than a logo on a banner. Pin flags and the accompanying digital exposure provided by your golf event management platform guarantee that the sponsor’s name is seen repeatedly throughout the tournament.

Even mini golf events can benefit from a pin flag sponsorship!

3. Elevate the Look & Feel of Your Tournament

Custom pin flags instantly upgrade your tournament. They give your event a professional, polished look that stands out to golfers, sponsors, and even golf facility staff. Seeing branded pin flags on every green tells golfers, sponsors, and donors that you take the event seriously and value sponsor relationships. The professional impression can help:

• Build credibility with first-time golfers and supporters

• Encourage past sponsors to return and level up their investment in your event in the future

• Differentiate your tournament from others in the area

Golfers and sponsors appreciate when an event feels well-organized and put together. Details like pin flags may seem small, but they help contribute to an overall professional experience that keeps participants coming back.

4. raise more money

Every additional golf tournament sponsorship represents new dollars for your cause and a new revenue stream for your event and organization. Pin flag sponsorships are especially valuable because they’re premium, high-demand options that many businesses find appealing. Plus, this sponsorship comes with a high ROI, making it worth a higher price point because pin flags:

• Offer unprecedented visibility across the golf course

• Have a “wow” factor

• Give sponsors a unique way to stand out

No matter how you sell pin flags—individually, nine, or 18 holes, the income has the potential to add up quickly.

5. extend the value beyond tournament day

Pin flags don’t have to be a one-and-done piece of event signage! With a little creativity, you can continue to leverage them after the tournament ends to deepen sponsor relationships and raise additional funds. Use them as:

• Thank you gifts for sponsors. Invite board, staff, or planning team members to sign the flags and present them to sponsors as a thank-you keepsake.

• Auction items or raffle prizes. Frame a flag, signed or unsigned, and include it in your silent auction or offer it as a fun raffle prize.

• Dual branding. Print the sponsor’s logo on one side of the flag and reserve the other side for your nonprofit’s logo, the name of a key supporter, or fun messaging. It makes the flag a unique memento that ties your mission to the sponsor’s contribution.

These extra uses add even more value to pin flags, extending the life and impact of the sponsorship while showing sponsors that you’re committed to making their investment meaningful.

Camp Hope Foundation, which provides camp experiences to children with pediatric cancer during their treatment, has campers sign their tournament’s pin flags, which are then auctioned off to raise additional funds.

6. There’s no hassle (with the right partner)

If you’re thinking, “This sounds great, but I don’t have the time to handle all those details on top of everything else,” then you simply need to find the right partner for pin flags.

GolfStatus has a turnkey solution for pin flags—you handle selling the sponsorship, GolfStatus handles everything else, including:

• Design. The team works directly with the sponsor or sponsors to secure logos and messaging.

• Logistics. The team works with the vendor to ensure everything looks great on the full-color, dye-sublimated flags.

• Delivery. Flags are shipped directly to the golf facility (or other chosen location) on time ahead of your tournament.

Letting a partner handle the details makes pin flag sponsorships virtually hassle-free for tournament organizers. You can focus on recruiting sponsors, engaging players, and running your event while GolfStatus ensures pin flags look great and arrive on time.

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SAMPLE PIN FLAG SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES

To help you get started, here are a few ideas on how to structure and price pin flag sponsorships. You can adjust them based on your audience, sponsor budgets, and event size.

Entire Course Sponsorship: 18 Pin Flags

One package available.

• Exclusive branding on all 18 pin flags across the course

• Company name and logo on the event website and sponsor banner

• Recognition on social media and email blasts

• Opportunity for social media collaboration

• Includes one foursome

• Price point: $4,000 - $6,000+ (depending on your market and tournament size)

Front or Back Nine Sponsorship: 9 Flags

Two packages available.

• Exclusive branding on nine pin flags

• Company name and logo on the event website and sponsor banner

• Recognition on social media and email blasts

• Price point: $2,000 - $3,000+

Individual Pin Flag Sponsorship

18 packages available.

• Branding on one pin flag

• Company name and logo displayed on the event website

• Price point: $250 - $500 per hole

Bundled Hole Sponsorship

18 packages available.

• Individual pin flag sponsorship

• One hole sign, plus exposure in the digital scoring app.

• Company name and logo displayed on the event website.

• Price point: $600 - $1,000

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Final Thoughts

Pin flag sponsorships check all the boxes: they’re flexible, visible, professional, and lucrative. They create a one-of-a-kind branding opportunity for sponsors and your organization, make your event look sharp, and generate additional dollars for your mission.

Whether you package them as a full set, split them by nine, or sell them individually, pin flags are a simple but powerful way to enhance your golf fundraiser.

The Right Partner for Pin Flags

Get Started With GolfStatus

by Jen Wemhoff, Communications Manager at GolfStatus

Prizes shouldn’t be an afterthought at your charity golf tournament. They’re more than just giveaways—they’re an opportunity to spark excitement, drive registrations, increase sponsor visibility, and boost additional fundraising revenue from the event. The right mix of prizes can elevate your tournament from a fun day of golf into a memorable experience that helps keep players and sponsors coming back year after year.

Your golf event’s prizes have the potential to do more than simply recognize winners.

This guide will answer common questions about golf event prizes, share 30 prize ideas that you can incorporate into your next golf fundraiser, and offer tips on how to choose, source, and present prizes effectively. Whether you’re launching a brand new tournament or building on years of success, looking for budget-friendly options or big-ticket items, or anywhere in between, your golf event prizes can have a lasting impact

FAQs About Golf Event Prizes

Why Should We Offer Golf Event Prizes?

Prizes have the potential to play a bigger role than just simply rewarding winners. They can impact participation, engagement, and fundraising results. Here’s why they matter:

• Boost participation. Attractive prizes encourage more golfers to register and more sponsors to sign on to support the event (especially if their sponsorship includes a team).

• Drive fundraising revenue. Tournament add-ons like raffles, auctions, and contests that are tied to prizes create extra income beyond registration fees and sponsorships.

• Enhance the experience. Prizes keep the day engaging, fun, and exciting from start to finish.

• Show appreciation. Prizes and awards recognize players, sponsors, and volunteers, reinforcing goodwill and loyalty to your organization.

• Differentiate your event. Unique or high-value prizes set your tournament apart, making it more memorable year after year.
  

How Many Prizes Should a Golf Event Have?

You’ll want to strike a balance between quality and quantity, with a variety of prizes for different tournament components. Plan for a balanced mix of prizes that includes:

• One or two marquee prizes, such as a grand prize for the tournament’s winner, as well as hole-in-one contest prizes.

• A handful of prizes for on-course contests, like closest to the pin, putting, or longest drive contests.

• Smaller prizes for on-course games or challenges, which can be as simple as taking strokes off their score for certain holes, a closer tee off position, raffle tickets, or drink tickets.

• Several raffle prizes or auction items at different value levels to keep everyone engaged.

Every golfer should receive a player gift of some sort as a token of appreciation for their support of your nonprofit through the event, but there’s no need to ensure everyone gets an additional prize.

Securing in-kind donations from sponsors, businesses, and supporters to use as raffle prizes is a great way to maximize value and raise more money.

Where Should We Get Golf Event Prizes?

Prizes don’t have to stretch your budget. In-kind donations are a great way to maximize value and keep costs as low as possible. Connect with your networks to request in-kind donations for prizes:

• Sponsors. Offer logo placement, shoutouts, and recognition in exchange for prize donations.

• Local businesses. Restaurants, breweries, shops, and service providers often appreciate the visibility of an in-kind donation, particularly if they turned you down for a financial sponsorship.

• Supporters and donors. Encourage board members or loyal donors to contribute experiences, products, or even connections.

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PRO TIP: Package several smaller items together, such as a coffee shop gift card and branded coffee mugs or a golf towel, divot fixer, and golf balls, to create raffle bundles with more perceived value.

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FREE GUIDE
Golf Tournament Sponsorships: Businesses to Target & How to Win Their Support

Learn how to use your networks to sell golf tournament sponsorships! Get ideas for building a prospect list, top business categories to target, pitch strategies that work, and more in this free guide.

Get the Guide

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30 Golf Event Prize Ideas

Get inspiration for your next golf event with these 30 prize ideas, organized by categories to help you plan.

Golf Event Prizes for Player Participation & Swag

Everyone loves a great keepsake! These prizes are great for golfer gift bags or participation prizes, as well as sponsor brand exposure.

1. Branded golf balls

2. High-quality golf gloves

3. Reusable water bottles or tumblers

4. Branded golf hats or visors

5. Branded golf towels

Hole-in-One Prizes

Nothing excites golfers quite like the chance to win a great prize in a hole-in-one contest. Make sure your nonprofit isn’t on the hook to cover the cost of the prize if someone gets an ace by securing hole-in-one insurance.

6. $10,000 cash prize

7. High-end golf membership

8. Luxury vacation to a resort destination

9. New car or truck

10. Home entertainment package

Golf event prizes like a stay-and-play trip at a private destination club can help drive participation and excitement.

Golf Prizes for Contest Winners

Reward the golfers who shine on the course! Offer exciting prizes to those who win their flight, the entire tournament, or contests like longest drive, closest to the pin, or putting.

11. Cash prize

12. Rangefinder or GPS golf watch

13. Premium golf bag

14. Custom-engraved driver or putter

15. Pro shop gift certificates from the host golf facility

16. Personalized trophies or plaques

Golf Tournament Raffle Prizes

Raffles get everyone involved and are an excellent opportunity to drive additional revenue. Use your event website to sell raffle tickets ahead of time and on tournament day.

17. Restaurant or brewery gift cards

18. Spa or wellness packages

19. High-end headphones or portable speakers

20. Local attraction or experience passes

21. Concert or live event package

Golf Tournament Auction Prizes

Silent and live auctions can generate significant revenue, especially when you secure donated unique or high-value prizes.

22. Private destination golf trip

23. Signed sports memorabilia

24. Private golf lesson or clinic with a local pro

25. Gift baskets featuring local products

26. Box seats for a professional sporting event

Golf Tournament Awards for Donors and Sponsors

Prizes aren’t just for players. Recognizing the tournament’s sponsors and donors helps build lasting relationships. Consider personalized, thoughtful items that help them remember the event.

27. Engraved plaques or awards

28. Customized wine or whiskey bottles with event branding

29. High-quality event photos in branded frames

30. Signed or framed customized golf pin flags

A framed pin flag is a great way to recognize sponsors, donors, or winners.

Tips for Choosing & Presenting Prizes

• Align prizes with your audience. A tournament made up of corporate sponsors may prefer high-end tech or luxury items, while a community event might lean more toward local experiences and family-friendly items.

• Make prizes visible. Display raffle prizes and auction items prominently, share photos of prizes for tournament winners on the event website, and promote contest prizes on social media to build anticipation before and during the event.

• Bundle creatively. Consider combining smaller item donations into themed packages. For example, a “Night Out” basket could include a gift card to a local restaurant, tickets to a concert, and a rideshare gift card.

• Keep the awards ceremony lively. Plan for a fast-moving, engaging prize presentation that keeps participants excited instead of restless.
  

Final Thoughts

Golf event prizes can be a powerful tool to increase registrations, drive revenue, and create a memorable experience for participants and golfers alike. By curating a mix of participation swag, high-end contest rewards, raffle and auction prizes, you’ll set your tournament apart and strengthen your impact. With the right strategy, even modest prizes can make a big splash. Start sourcing prizes early, leverage in-kind donations, and focus on items that reflect your audience and mission.

Better Prizes, Better Profit

Turn Prize Ideas Into Fundraising Dollars With GolfStatus

About the Author

Jen Wemhoff - Communications Manager at GolfStatus

Jen Wemhoff accidentally discovered her passion for nonprofits in college. An internship while earning a degree in Communications from Doane University led to a 20 year career in the nonprofit sector, where she found a strong desire to be part of something bigger than herself. Her vast nonprofit experience includes roles in marketing, fundraising, and direct programming. When Jen came to GolfStatus as Communications Manager in 2020, she was struck by the power of the sport to raise money to power nonprofit missions. She tells GolfStatus’s story across platforms and channels and develops educational tools and resources to help nonprofits tap into golf’s giving power. Jen, her husband, and two daughters call Lincoln, Nebraska home.

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by Jen Wemhoff, Communications Manager at GolfStatus

When you think of a golf fundraiser, a traditional 18-hole tournament on a sunny spring or summer day probably comes to mind. While these types of golf events are tried and true revenue drives, they aren’t the only golf fundraising option on the table. In fact, holding an alternative golf event this fall or winter can be a powerful way to extend your fundraising calendar, diversify your event offerings, and reach new audiences.

Whether you’re looking for a lower-lift event, something weather-proof, or a fun and inclusive experience that appeals to non-golfers, unique golf events fit the bill. Here’s why they work and how your organization can hold one successfully.

Adding a unique golf event in the off-season can help extend your nonprofit’s fundraising calendar, diversify your event offerings, and reach new audiences.

why consider an off-season golf event?

extend your fundraising season & momentum

If your organization already hosted a golf fundraiser earlier in the year, you've likely built up awareness, enthusiasm, and goodwill among golfers and sponsors. Instead of waiting a full year for your next event, capitalize on the momentum by inviting them to another golf-related fundraiser in the fall or winter.

The good news is that these seasonal events don’t necessarily have to be at the same large scale as your main charity golf tournament. You can think of them as a “bookend” to your fundraising year, and a chance to stay top-of-mind with supporters and strengthen donor relationships before year-end giving campaigns ramp up or to kickstart the new year.

Reach New Audiences

While traditional tournaments tend to draw in more avid golfers, alternative events like mini golf or TopGolf have broader appeal. Families, young professionals, corporate groups, and community members who might be intimidated by a full round of golf are more likely to participate in something smaller, fun, and social.

That wider net means additional exposure for your work, plus more potential donors and more opportunities to build pipelines for long-term supporters.

A mini golf tournament is a fun, family-friendly option to introduce new people to your cause.

Offer Accessibility & Flexibility

A typical 18-hole tournament takes up most of the day, which is something not everyone can commit to. Alternative golf events are shorter, more flexible, and may be easier for busy supporters to fit into their schedules.

They’re also highly accessible. No prior golf experience is required, equipment is often provided, and the atmosphere is casual and relaxed. This makes such an event less intimidating and more inviting for first-time participants.

Engage With Supporters Throughout the Year

Your event fundraising calendar doesn’t have to be confined to the spring, summer, or even fall. Indoor or weather-proof golf events create fun touchpoints with supporters throughout the year. This consistency not only diversifies revenue but also strengthens donor commitment and loyalty to your nonprofit.

Three unique golf event ideas

1. Mini Golf Fundraiser

Why it works: Mini golf is light-hearted and appeals to participants of all ages. It’s especially effective for engaging families and younger supporters, expanding your donor base beyond the typical golf crowd. It’s also easy to organize, with many local courses and indoor options available for rental, and you have the option to add on-course games or challenges.

When to host:

• Fall: Host an outdoor mini golf tournament before the weather turns colder in your area.

• Winter: Move indoors! Many communities have indoor mini golf facilities perfect for off-season event fundraising.

How to make it successful:

• Charge a registration fee per player or per team.

• Add tailored contests like hole-in-one challenges or best trick shot.

• Offer sponsorships. Sell sponsorships to cover fixed costs and for each hole, giving local businesses visibility at a low cost.

• Consider including family-friendly activities like face painting, giveaways, food trucks, or raffles to boost revenue and create a festive atmosphere.

Alternative golf events can come with many of the same elements as a traditional 18-hole tournament, such as trophies, contests, and sponsorships.

2. top golf event

Why it works: TopGolf has exploded in popularity, offering a modern, social spin on conventional driving ranges. Guests compete in climate-controlled bays, with food, drinks, and entertainment built in. TopGolf appeals to golfers and non-golfers alike, making it a perfect way to attract diverse participants—including younger donors, corporate teams, and social groups.

When to host: TopGolf venues are open year-round, making them an excellent choice for fall or winter fundraisers.

How to make it successful:

• Partner directly with TopGolf to book an event package, as they often have fundraising-friendly options.

• Sell tickets and sponsorship packages for each bay, which can accommodate small groups.

• Organize team competitions, longest-drive contests, or mission-focused challenges.

• Take advantage of TopGolf’s built-in amenities like catering and event staff to help minimize your planning workload.

Avery’s Hope Uses TopGolf to Include the families it serves

Avery’s Hope is a grassroots, all-volunteer organization that provides financial assistance to rare, ultra-rare, and undiagnosed pediatric GI patient families. They host an annual TopGolf fundraiser to be more inclusive for patient families, children, and those who don’t play golf. Bay sponsorships, a silent auction, and a raffle drawing help drive revenue for their mission from the event.

3. Indoor golf simulator event

Why it works: Golf simulators combine the fun of real golf with cutting-edge technology. Players can “play” famous courses around the world without ever leaving the building! Many simulators can also track swing data, adding a gamified element that many players love. Simulator events are weather-proof, scalable, and great for building repeatable annual fundraisers that showcase your nonprofit’s creativity.

When to host: Because golf simulators are indoors, these events are ideal for late fall and throughout the winter, when outdoor golf is impractical or impossible in many areas.

How to make it successful:

• Partner with a local golf simulator facility or sports bar that offers simulator rentals.

• Charge entry fees for individuals and teams and sell sponsorships.

• Host contests like closest to the pin, longest drive, or low score.

• Add in raffles, auctions, or mission-based presentations during downtime to maximize impact.

tips for hosting a winning alternative golf fundraiser

1. Use golf event tech. Save yourself a ton of time and hassle by choosing an event management platform that’s built for golf. Even alternative golf events come with unique details to handle, so make sure your platform has those tools baked in. Leverage online registration to simplify collecting payments and managing golfer and sponsor information.

2. Keep it mission-focused. No matter what type of golf event you choose, tie everything back to your cause. Share impact stories, highlight your work and beneficiaries, and make sure participants know how their support makes a difference.

3. Offer sponsorship opportunities. Even smaller events like mini golf, TopGolf, or golf simulators present chances for businesses to get involved. From hole or bay sponsors to presenting sponsorships, local businesses appreciate the visibility and community connection.

4. Keep it simple. Alternative events don’t need to be overcomplicated! Leverage the built-in amenities of your chosen venue and don’t be afraid to scale the event to fit your goals and resources.

5. Promote across channels. Use an event website and share the link through email, social media, and peer-to-peer outreach to spread the word. Highlight the fun, accessible nature of the event to help draw in people who might not usually attend a golf fundraiser.

6. Make it repeatable. Test out one of these alternative formats this year, then refine and grow it into a recurring fall or winter tradition for your organization.

An event website makes it easy to spread the word about your tournament and where people can find out about your event, register a team, become a sponsor, or make a donation.

final thoughts on unique golf fundraisers

A traditional 18-hole charity golf tournament may be the flagship fundraiser for your nonprofit, but it’s far from the only option. Alternative events, like mini golf, TopGolf, or golf simulators, offer accessible, inclusive, and weather-friendly ways to engage supporters and raise additional funds in the fall and winter.

By adding a secondary golf event to your fundraising calendar, you’ll not only boost revenue but also expand your reach, engage new donors, and build lasting relationships.

golfstatus powers all types of golf events

From mini golf to TopGolf and everything in between, GolfStatus can help make your next golf fundraiser the best one yet. With powerful, easy-to-use technology and a best-in-class support team, you’ll save time, have access to tools to raise more money, and put on a professional tournament that will keep participants coming back year after year. Nonprofits and third parties raising money for charity can use GolfStatus at no upfront cost. Book a quick 15 or 30-minute meeting with our team to get started!

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GolfStatus’ on-staff PGA Professionals—Cash Dinkel, PGA; Jason Meininger, PGA; and Paul Murcek, PGA—continue to share their insights and experiences in this ongoing PGA Q&A blog series. They’re back for another installment, this time talking about a popular revenue enhancer at charity golf tournaments—on-course games.

Q: We want to have games on some of the tournament holes. How many is too many? How many do you recommend?

Cash Dinkel: I would say keep it to six or fewer. Four is a great sweet spot. You don’t want to have too many games that it impacts the pace of play too much, but games can be a great way to earn some extra money from golfers.

Paul Murcek: I wouldn’t recommend doing more than six, especially if the games will slow down the tournament’s pace of play.

Jason Meininger: I would say between three and six games is about right. If you have too many, it will slow down the pace of play, and no one likes getting stuck waiting at a hole.

Q: What are some of the best on-course games you’ve seen at charity golf tournaments? What made them great?

Jason Meininger: A few I’ve seen work well at charity tournaments:

• Beat the Pro. On a par three hole, a Pro (could be the course’s golf pro, a professional golf entertainer, or other person) hits a shot and golfers pay to hit the same shot. They win a prize if their shot is closer to the hole. Golfers feel great if they can beat the pro!

• Air cannon. Golfers pay $20 (or other amount) to shoot the air cannon as their tee shot. This is really popular—it’s fun to shoot the cannon.

• Chip into a small pool. Golfers pay to hit a chip shot to land in the pool to win a prize.

Cash Dinkel:

• Use the Pro’s shot. Each team pays $20 or so and gets to hit their next shot from where the Pro hits their shot. This is very popular on par threes and par fives if the Pro hits the ball a long way.

• Closest to the pin, long drive, or longest putt contests. Sell a sponsorship to pay for the cost of the prize (and a little extra revenue), and the winners get golf shop credit or another prize.

• Beat the Pro. Another variation on what Jason mentioned is that each team pays $100 to go against the pro. If the team is closer than the pro on the tee shot, the team gets a one on that hole; if not, the hole is played normally. Another option is to give additional raffle tickets to teams who win.

• 50/50 putting contest. Set up a medium difficulty putt, maybe 20 to 30 feet. Golfers pay $20 per attempt with unlimited attempts. Everyone who makes the medium difficulty putt then gets to attempt a very difficult putt of 40 to 50 feet. If a golfer makes the difficult putt, they split half the entry fees with the host organization.

Habitat for Humanity of Columbus, Nebraska features a putting contest at their annual golf fundraiser, in which golfers use various building tools (two by fours, levels, sledgehammers, etc.) to putt.

Q: How about the worst on-course games? Why were they the worst?

Paul Murcek: Any game games where there’s too much time between golf shots. An example is where a golfer has to spin around and make themselves dizzy before hitting a golf shot. Although it is funny, it slows down play, and in the end, slow play is the biggest killer of repeat golfers and sponsors at a golf event.

Cash Dinkel: The String Game. No one wants to hold onto and cut a string throughout the day. Most people don’t grasp the game, and a lot of teams use it differently, making it not ideal.

Q: How do we maintain the pace of play with on-course games?

Jason Meininger: Bottom line—don’t overdo the games, or it will slow down the pace of play.

Cash Dinkel: Make them simple and easy to understand, and don’t do more than six. Games that are a part of normal play (like tee shots or putts) mean it won’t take more time than needed to play the hole.

Paul Murcek: I echo what Cash said about having games or contests that are part of normal play, like closest to the pin, beat the pro on a par three, or longest drive, to not affect the pace of play. Utilize volunteers who understand golf and suggest a window of no more than 15 minutes for a team to play a hole to keep a brisk pace of play (15 minutes per hole on an 18-hole golf course means a round of about four hours and 30 minutes).

When done properly, on-course games won’t slow down the tournament’s pace of play.

Q: Will golf course staff help run on-course games, or do I need volunteers?

Cash Dinkel: More often than not, your team will be tasked with staffing those contests. It’s a question to ask the golf facility, but I wouldn’t expect them to do that. They can usually assist you with setup.

Paul Murcek: You will definitely need volunteers or staff members from your organization. In my experience, golf course staff won’t help with on-course games in most cases.

Jason Meininger: Course staff will usually not run the games for you, so getting volunteers is the best option.

Q: Do golf facilities generally have any restrictions on the on-course games allowed? If so, what are they, and how can we work with the facility to make everyone happy?

Cash Dinkel: I’ve never heard of a golf course limiting on-course games. If there are concerns about pace of play or the need to protect the integrity of the course, they may say no to some on-course games. So make a point to communicate with the course what your plans are for games and contests, so there are no surprises on the day of the event.

Paul Murcek: Not to my knowledge, but every golf facility is different and may have different rules. Ask the pro if they have games that are not allowed.

Jason Meininger: I have never heard of a course restricting the number of on-course games, but like the other two said, be sure to talk with the golf staff to be sure.

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