by Jen Wemhoff, Communications Manager at GolfStatus

A popular—and lucrative—complementary activity to your charity golf tournament is an auction. With the right strategy, auctions deliver strong ROI and can generate significant additional revenue for your organization. This guide will explore how to seamlessly add an auction to your golf event and maximize income.

• Frequently Asked Questions about Charity Golf Auctions

• The Benefits of Running a Charity Golf Auction

• How to Add an Auction to a Golf Event

• Best Practices for Running a Charity Golf Auction

• The Best Golf Charity Auction Items

---

Frequently Asked Questions about Charity Golf Auctions

Why should my nonprofit run a golf charity auction?

Auctions and golf tournaments go hand-in-hand. Both combine high-net-worth networking with a popular, engaging activity that, when done well, can result in meaningful revenue for organizations of all types and sizes.

What types of auctions complement golf tournaments?

• Silent auction. The vast majority of golf tournaments incorporate a silent auction. In a silent auction, participants write their bids on a piece of paper or, more commonly, submit their bids using an online bidding platform. Silent auctions work well with golf tournaments because of their flexibility, and thanks to mobile bidding platforms, golfers can place bids from anywhere on the course.

• Live auction. Live auctions utilize a professional auctioneer who leads the bidding process, encouraging competition amongst attendees. One item is auctioned off at a time, in front of the entire group. Live auctions are particularly effective for high-value items or experiences, but can be time-consuming at the end of a long day on the golf course.

• Online auction. An online auction extends the auction beyond the golf tournament itself, reaching a larger audience and broader participation.

When is the best time to hold the auction during a tournament?

An online auction or silent auction that utilizes bidding software can be launched before the tournament to maximize reach and bids. In fact, golfers can bid from their phones during the round! Bidding can start a few days or a few weeks before the event and usually concludes following the awards ceremony or banquet, so golfers or guests take their winning items home. Live auctions are often held during the post-round cocktail hour or dinner, and often coincide with the announcement of the tournament’s winners.

How do we handle bidding while golfers are out on the course?

Paper bid sheets are outdated and create more work for you and your team. Instead, use an auction platform that offers a mobile-friendly interface to:

• Keep the auction running smoothly and professionally

• Allow golfers to browse auction items and place bids during the round, without needing to return to the clubhouse to check bid status

• Automate finalizing bids

• Quickly collect payments and send receipts

How many items should we have for our charity golf auction?

The number of items you offer in your auction is dependent on the number of participants and guests at your tournament. You want to ensure every item is sold, while also creating scarcity that drives higher bids. A good rule of thumb for silent auctions is to have one silent auction item for every five to 10 guests.

Are charity golf auction purchases tax-deductible?

Yes. According to the IRS, “Donors who purchase items at a charity auction may claim a charitable contribution deduction for the excess of the purchase price paid for an item over its fair market value.” For the deduction to be valid, the Fair Market Value (FMV) must be displayed on the auction site.

How do we prevent “auction fatigue” at the end of a long day?

Keep the energy high for your golf event’s auction by:

• Encouraging bidders to save payment information to streamline purchases and receive digital receipts.

• Limiting the live auction to just a handful of big-ticket items to keep golfers engaged, and using an experienced, entertaining auctioneer.

• Opening bidding for a silent golf charity auction before the tournament, so golfers (and guests!) can browse items before they tee off.

• Ensuring there is plenty of time and there are plenty of volunteers to facilitate item pickup and payment when the auction closes.

How should we set starting bids and bid increments?

• Establish a clear FMV. Determine and clearly display the FMV for every auction item, which is the foundation for your pricing strategy.

• Set starting bids in the "Sweet Spot." A good practice is to start bidding at 30% to 50% of the item's FMV. This range is low enough to attract early bids and generate excitement, but high enough to ensure a meaningful return.

• Calculate standard bid increments. Set bid increments at approximately 10% of the starting bid (e.g., if the starting bid is $50, the increment should be $5).

• Minimize bidding friction. The 10% rule keeps the math simple and ensures the item's price steadily increases without drastic jumps.

• Create exceptions for "Priceless" items. For exclusive experiences or unique items (like a round of golf with a celebrity) where FMV is subjective, you may want to set a higher baseline starting bid based on your audience's perceived value.

What legalities do I need to worry about?

• Local liquor laws. Alcohol is heavily regulated. Before auctioning off any liquor items, verify local, county, and state laws. Many jurisdictions require charities to obtain a temporary liquor license or special permit to legally auction alcohol.

• Auction and raffle differences: It’s critical to distinguish between these two formats. An auction is a direct sale where the item goes to the highest bidder based on value, and a raffle (or lottery) is a game of chance where participants buy tickets for a random draw.

• Gaming and gambling issues. Raffles and lotteries are regulated under state gaming and gambling laws, which are stricter than auction laws. Using the terms interchangeably or improperly running a raffle can lead to legal or compliance issues.

• Tax deductions. Clearly state the FMV to keep everything transparent. Bidders can only claim a tax deduction on the amount they pay that exceeds the item's FMV.

How much revenue can your tournament raise?

Use this auction ROI calculator to help determine your charity golf auction’s potential net revenue!

Auction ROI Calculator

Estimate your charity auction's return on investment and maximize fundraising impact.

Number of Auction Items

Total items in your silent & live auction combined.

Avg. Item Fair Market Value ($)

Average fair market value of each donated item.

Expected Sell-Through Rate (%)

Percentage of items that sell. Golf auctions typically see 60–80%.

Avg. Winning Bid (% of Value)

Winning bids as a % of fair market value. Charity auctions often see 50–100%+.

Total Procurement Costs ($)

All costs: purchased items, display, software, printing, shipping, etc.

Calculate ROI

Gross Revenue

$0

Net Profit

$0

ROI

0%

Items Sold

0

---

Revenue Breakdown

Total Inventory Value $0

Auction Revenue $0

Costs $0

The Benefits of Running a Golf Charity Auction

An auction can significantly increase your golf event’s overall revenue and further your nonprofit’s impact. Here’s why you should add an auction:

• Drive significant revenue from your event. Add another income stream to your tournament to supplement teams, sponsorships, contests, mulligan sales, raffles, on-course games, and other add-ons. Competitive bidding, especially in a live auction, can drive up the final sale price of items, leading to better fundraising outcomes.

• Attract new supporters and engage non-golfers. An auction—particularly an online auction with an easily shareable link—can draw a wider audience, including non-golfers or spouses or guests of golfers and sponsors. High-end items can also draw new teams to play in your tournament, so be sure to publicize the auction in your event marketing.

• Add excitement and engagement. Auctions add fun and excitement to your tournament, encouraging golfers, sponsors, and guests to stay longer—and spend more.

• Low-cost, high ROI. Keep your auction’s overhead costs low by securing as many donated items as possible. Items purchased outright or on consignment eat away at your overall take from the auction, so engage your donor base, partners, vendors, and sponsors to solicit item donations that boost ROI.

• Opportunities to connect with local businesses. An auction is another opportunity to engage with area companies and businesses. If a business can’t financially sponsor your tournament, invite them to donate an auction item, opening doors for future sponsorships.

• Turn bidders into donors. Capturing bidder data with an online auction platform makes it simple to include them in your CRM for year-round donor stewardship and giving campaigns.

How to Add an Auction to a Golf Event

An auction can easily be added to your tournament at any time, but planning early can help ensure a smooth experience that encourages higher bids. Here’s how to add an auction to your golf tournament:

• Determine the type of auction that best suits your tournament, either live, silent, or online.

• Procure auction items. Work with sponsors, local businesses, your planning team, board members, and corporate partners to secure donated goods, services, and experiences that appeal to your audience. Another option is working with consignment providers who offer big-ticket items without upfront risk.

• Choose an auction platform. Much like your golf tournament, using tech will help it run smoothly and save you time and hassle. The most important feature is a mobile-friendly interface, so golfers and others can browse auction items during the round and place bids right from their phones.

• Promote the auction on all your communication channels and as part of your tournament’s marketing campaigns. Use your GolfStatus event website to promote your golf tournament’s auction and include information about top-tier items, donors, and the bidding link in your pre-event email to participants.

• Establish bidding processes. Determine the starting bid for each item—30% to 50% of the FMV is a good place to start—and the bidding increments. If you’re planning a live auction, secure a high-energy auctioneer experienced in engaging guests.

• Secure volunteers to help set up the auction, answer questions, and finalize payment and item pickup.

• Finalize the details. Add items to your auction platform (making sure to include who donated each item and FMV), create baskets or groupings, and touch base with volunteers and the auctioneer.

ADD AN AUCTION TO YOUR GOLFSTATUS EVENT WEBSITE

Find out more!

Best Practices for Running a Charity Golf Auction

• Plan early. Start organizing your auction well in advance of the tournament so you have ample time to secure high-quality items that appeal to your audience. Sample timeline:

  • 6 months out: Assign an auction lead

  • 3 to 4 months out: Solicit donations and/or contact a consignment provider

  • 1 month out: Finalize lineup and open bidding link

• Set clear guidelines. Clearly outline the rules and communicate these before bidding begins, including bidding increments, payment methods, and pick-up procedures, to avoid confusion and ensure a seamless process.

• Utilize technology. Online platforms for silent or virtual auctions streamline bidding, help reach a broader audience, and make checkout and payments quick and easy. Include a link to the auction on your golf tournament’s website.

GolfStatus’ event website include an auction integration to easily link to your online auction.

• Secure donated items. Partner with local businesses for donated items or experiences, reducing costs, fostering community involvement, and improving fundraising outcomes.

• Engage attendees. Provide frequent updates and reminders about the auction during the tournament, highlighting selected items to keep attendees engaged.

• Follow up with bidders. Promptly reach out to winning bidders to confirm payment and item delivery, and thank them for their support. You should also send a personalized thank-you email to all attendees within 48 hours, and invite everyone to next year’s golf fundraiser.

• Evolve the auction based on feedback. Look for ways to improve your auction strategy based on the feedback you get from your supporters and golf event participants.

The Best Golf Charity Auction Items

One key to a successful auction is offering items that are appealing, attractive, and valuable to your audience. When procuring items:

• Ask your supporters ahead of time what type of auction items they would like to see.

• Have three to five “big” items in the mix that guests would splurge on, plus small to mid-sized items to round out the slate and attract more bidders.

• Include golf-related items to appeal to golfers, and consider items that match the tournament's theme.

• Invite sponsors to contribute in-kind gifts for auction items. If a prospective sponsor says no to a monetary sponsorship, ask for an in-kind donation.

Our Favorite Golf Charity Auction Items

• Experiences. VIP tickets to sporting events, concert passes, exclusive golf packages, vacations or travel packages, dining experiences.

• Memorabilia. Autographed sports gear, collectibles, pieces of art, branded merchandise, golf equipment.

• Luxury items. Designer goods, handmade jewelry, high-end electronics, gourmet food baskets, high-end spirits or wine baskets.

• Local business services. Spa packages, local dining experiences, home improvement services, golf lessons, local boutique packages.

Hope Strengthens Foundation partners with NHL Hall-of-Famer Ray Bourque as the auctioneer at their golf charity auction.

Golf-Related Auction Items

• Custom golf club set

• Golf rangefinder

• Personalized golf bag

• Exclusive lessons with a golf pro

• Golf apparel (hat, shoes, gloves, shirts, pants)

• Golf cart 

• Golf course membership package

• Golf weekend getaway

• Play with a club pro

• Play with a local celebrity 

---

Pro Tip:

GolfStatus’ giving partners at Dormie Network Foundation offer in-kind donations that level up nonprofits’ fundraising efforts.

---

Physical Auction Items

• Custom artwork

• Standing desk/walking pad

• Chef set (knives, kitchen supplies, etc.)

• Gourmet gift basket (luxury chocolates, wine, snacks, and other gourmet foods)

• Coffee lover gift basket (coffee mugs, French press, beans, etc.)

Experiential Auction Items

• Sporting events tickets

• Concert tickets

• “Night on the Town” (dinner and a show)

• Ultimate city experience (tickets to all the fun things to do in a certain city)

Consignment Travel & Risk-Free Big Ticket Items

• Vacation packages

• Golf-related packages, like tickets to The Masters, a trip to Pebble Beach, or a trip to play St. Andrews

Third-party providers offer risk-free travel packages. Your organization only pays the base cost of the item if it sells, and you keep all the profit above the reserve price.

Run a Golf Auction with GolfStatus

In addition to industry-leading software for charity golf tournaments and fundraisers, GolfStatus offers an auction add-on. The GolfStatus in-house team will work closely with you to set the auction up on the platform and activate the “Auction” tab on your golf tournament website so you can start collecting bids alongside golfer and sponsor registrations. Curious about how GolfStatus can help save time, raise more money, and streamline your auction? Click below to get in touch with our team.

Work With the Golf Fundraising Pros

Book a Meeting to Get Started

By Jen Wemhoff, Communications Manager at GolfStatus

Your charity golf tournament draws some of your most affluent, influential supporters—golfers, sponsors, and their networks. Yet, this is often the exact group that slips through the cracks of even the most data-savvy nonprofit’s fundraising efforts. If that data isn’t making it into your donor database, you’re leaving valuable relationships (and future gifts) on the table. Here’s exactly how to capture it, step by step.

Data Capture Checklist

1. Choose a golf-specific event management platform, not a generic event tool

2. Launch a dedicated online registration website for your tournament

3. Centralize data management, particularly if third parties are running events on your behalf

4. Export tournament data from your event management tool and tag every golfer, sponsor, and donor by year and level

5. Add the data to your nonprofit’s CRM as part of your broader fundraising strategy

6. Put the data to work to inform hole assignments and team pairings

7. Use data to re-engage lapsed golf tournament participants

Why Golfer & Sponsor Data Matters

The basic reality is this—you can’t use information that you don’t have. If your golf event participants aren’t in your donor database, you’re missing out on a huge opportunity to steward high-capacity donors over time. And the worst thing? You may not even realize it’s happening, since the gap is a blind spot, not an obvious red flag.

• When golfers or sponsors tap their personal and professional networks to fill a team, your organization gets exposed to new, high-level supporters you’d otherwise never meet.

• A golf tournament sponsorship is often a company’s first touchpoint with your mission, and sponsors are strong candidates for deeper corporate partnerships down the road.

• Golf event-specific data, like handicap, participation history, add-on purchases, auction winnings, or day-of donations, gives you conversation starters and stewardship angles that generic donor data doesn’t.

• Golfers represent an affluent demographic with strong ties to the local business community.

Step-by-Step Golf Tournament Data Collection

1. Choose a Golf-Specific Event Management Platform

General event management tools or generic ticketing platforms simply aren’t built for the level of specificity that golf tournaments require. Set yourself up for success from the get-go and look for a purpose-built solution that seamlessly handles:

• Golfer information (handicaps, GHIN, course preferences, shirt sizes)

• Custom sponsorship packages and tiers

• Digital sponsor exposure throughout the platform

• Hole assignments and team pairings

• Online donations before, during, and after the event

• Live scoring and leaderboards

The right platform should make registration frictionless. Its flow should be intuitive, so golfers and sponsors complete it without abandoning their carts partway through. Every field, click, or step that feels unnecessary is a chance to lose a registrant before they finish.

2. Launch an Online Registration Website

Your event management platform should power a sleek, professional golf tournament website. Whether your tournament is weeks or months away, this is perhaps the single most impactful thing you can do. Why? Online registration replaces emailed signups and manually processed paper forms with a system that captures clean, structured data automatically—without extra work from you or your event committee.

A well-built website should ideally collect more than just a name and payment. Capture each golfer’s contact information (or give registrants the ability to add that information later if all golfers aren’t yet determined), and potentially their employer, job title, and sponsor affiliation. Pairing that information with their purchases—mulligans, game or contest entry, raffle tickets—offers additional context that can turn your registration list into data your development team can leverage later.

An event website makes capturing data from your charity golf tournament easy and efficient.

---

PRO TIP:

Keep all tournament purchases within your event management platform to ensure you capture as much useful data as possible—and you won’t be stuck reconciling cash payments or Venmos post-tournament.

---

3. Centralize Data Management

Online registration keeps all your event data in one easy-to-access spot so everyone on your team is working with up-to-date information, instead of multiple spreadsheets that quickly become outdated.

If your organization benefits from events hosted by volunteers, businesses, or other third parties, data capture and management can become even more convoluted—and fast. You may have limited visibility into who’s registering, sponsoring, or donating at an event you didn’t organize yourself.

Tech that centralizes events and their data into a single platform while still letting them run independently makes it easy for others to raise funds on your behalf. Plus, you capture the event’s data for long-term stewardship. This gives you the best of both worlds: expanded reach through the third party’s networks and goodwill and the donor and sponsor relationships that come with it.

4. Export, Tag, and Track Data by Year and Level

The best event data is useless if it’s not accessible outside of the fundraiser itself. An intuitive golf event platform should offer robust reporting and make it easy to export data to include in your nonprofit’s CRM.

Once the data is exported, use source codes, tags, or other batch notations to track who played in, donated to, or sponsored your event at what level and in what year. This turns a one-time registration list into a broader piece of each contact’s multi-year donor history.

Over time, this kind of tracking lets you answer questions that matter for stewardship and solicitation for next year’s golf tournament:

• Which sponsors have upgraded their level year over year?

• Which golfers have played every year?

• Who sponsored once and never came back?

• Which golfers played in the past but missed last year?

Each of these questions gives your team the context they need for outreach messaging that resonates.

Your event management platform should make it simple to export donor and sponsor data with a few clicks.

5. Import Data to Your CRM

Once the data is in your CRM, combine it with the rest of your donor information to make timely, relevant asks—donations, support for other events, invitations to future golf tournaments—through regular donor touchpoints.

This step is what connects your charity golf tournament to the rest of your nonprofit’s fundraising efforts. A golfer who’s been quietly showing up year after year or a company that’s sponsored the same hole-in-one contest for years are potential candidates for additional support. Your development team can only spot that pattern if the data actually makes it into their systems and processes.

6. Put the Data to Work

Organized data lets you be intentional about the event itself, not just what happens after it. You wouldn’t seat a major donor in the back of a dimly lit ballroom at a gala, and the same logic applies on the golf course.

Use what you know about sponsors and top donors to make thoughtful team pairings and hole assignments, especially since many sponsors are there to talk business over 18 holes. Good data also pays off in sponsor satisfaction. A sponsor who’s paired with or near golfers or other sponsors they have a business connection to is more likely to find value in the event and renew their support for next year.

---

Pro Tip:

Strategically pair your nonprofit’s executive director with a team from the title sponsor or potential major partner. The hours spent on the golf course can go a long way toward future support and gifts.

---

7. Re-Engage Repeat and Lapsed Participants

Repeat attendees, sponsors, and donors are typically more engaged and more generous than new participants, so getting them back year after year should be important. Reaching out to participants who missed last year’s tournament is also one of the more effective ways to bring active supporters back into the fold.

A simple low-effort habit worth building is to flag anyone who registered or sponsored the prior year but didn’t return. Next, reach out personally well before registration opens for the next event. A short personalized note asking what changed or saying simply that you missed them does much more than a generic email blast.

Use your golf event’s data to re-engage with lapsed participants, sponsors, and donors.

Common Data Capture Mistakes to Avoid

• Treating the tournament as a standalone event rather than an ongoing donor relationship. The data only pays off if it feeds back into your broader fundraising strategy.

• Relying on manual data entry from paper forms or email signups. Not only is it slow and error-prone, but it takes an enormous amount of time that could be better spent building relationships.

• Skipping data export so golfer and sponsor data sits in the event platform and is never used.

• Missing tags or notations when your data is uploaded to your CRM. Without this critical information, your data tells an incomplete story.

• Losing visibility into third-party events run on your organization’s behalf, which can mean entirely missing some promising sponsor prospects.

Wrapping Up

Your charity golf tournament is much more than a one-day fundraiser. In fact, it’s one of the richest sources of donor and sponsor data your organization has access to all year. The difference between capturing that data and letting it slip away usually comes down to a handful of decisions: registering golfers online rather than on paper, choosing a platform built for golf rather than a generic ticketing platform, and ensuring data reaches the people who need it rather than keeping it siloed.

The best news of all is that none of this requires a bigger budget or team. It simply requires the right tools and the habit of treating every tournament as an input into your broader donor strategy. Start with the steps outlined in this article, and you’ll be ahead of the game for your next tournament.

---

Get a Free Event Registration Website

Worried that a dedicated event website will take a huge chunk out of your limited tournament budget? Nonprofits, charities, and third parties running golf events to benefit one can get a free event website, plus access to GolfStatus’ golf event management and fundraising platform at no upfront cost. Easily capture golfer and sponsor data, manage teams, track payments, communicate with participants, and much more—all to save you time and help raise thousands more dollars for your cause. Click below to book a meeting or get started in the software on your own!

Get Started With GolfStatus at No Upfront Cost

by Jen Wemhoff, Communications Manager at GolfStatus

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.

Skip to:

• Corporate Fundraising FAQ

• Top Corporate Fundraising Idea: Charity Golf Tournament

• Event-Based Corporate Fundraising Ideas

• Workplace Giving & Employee Engagement Fundraising Ideas

• Community-Focused Fundraising Ideas

• Virtual Fundraising Ideas

• Seasonal Corporate Fundraising Ideas

Corporate Fundraising FAQ

What is Corporate Fundraising?

Corporate fundraising is any effort where a business raises money or resources to support a nonprofit or charitable cause. It can take many forms, and the right approach depends on the company’s size, culture, budget, priorities, and goals. Some companies focus their corporate fundraising efforts on increasing employee engagement and strengthening community relationships, while others prioritize charitable impact and enhancing brand visibility.

What Are the Benefits of Corporate Fundraising?

For Corporate Entities

• 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 connections 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.

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.

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

What Are the Top Corporate Fundraising Best Practices?

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.

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

Schedule a Quick 15-Minute Call

---

Other Event-Based Corporate Fundraising Ideas

2. Corporate gala or charity ball

3. Trivia night

4. Charity game night

5. Wine and dine fundraiser

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

7. Networking event or conference

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

9. Giving days

10. Corporate field day

11. Charity bowling tournament

12. Corporate cook-off

13. Art auction featuring employee or local artist works

14. Charity fashion show highlighting local boutiques

15. Escape room challenge

16. Corporate talent show and dinner

17. Pancake breakfast fundraiser before the workday begins

18. Charity poker or casino night

19. Community outdoor movie night

20. Murder mystery dinner party

21. Charity cornhole tournament

22. Paint and sip fundraising event

23. Mini-golf tournament

24. Charity obstacle course race/field day

25. Bingo night fundraiser

Workplace Giving & Employee Engagement Fundraising Ideas

26. Donation matching

27. Payroll giving

28. Company-wide donation challenge

29. Internal company charity raffle

30. Company silent auction

31. Cause-related product sales

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

33. Office bake sale

34. "Dress down" or casual dress days in exchange for a donation

35. Paid volunteer time off (VTO) campaigns tied to a financial match

36. CEO/Executive "jail" (employees donate to bail them out)

37. Lunch and learn sessions with a nonprofit guest speaker (catered lunch with suggested donation)

38. Office pet photo contest with voting via entry fees

39. Parking spot auction

40. Employee skill auction (e.g., bid on lessons for employees with niche skills, like guitar lessons or baking)

41. Spare change collection jars in the breakroom

42. Department vs. department penny wars

43. Used book or media sale at the office

44. Coffee cart sale (all coffee purchases are used as donations to a charity)

45. Company recipe book sales featuring employee submissions

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

Community-Focused Fundraising Ideas

46. Charity car wash

47. Restaurant fundraising night

48. Food or in-kind item drive

49. Charity run

50. Community festival for charity

51. Charity dog wash or pet grooming event

52. Company-wide garage/yard sale

53. Community tree planting or park clean-up sponsorship

54. Local artisan craft fair with a portion of proceeds donated

55. Charity bike ride or cyclathon

56. Community scavenger hunt with local business sponsors

57. E-waste recycling drive (partnering with a local recycling firm)

58. Local business coupon book sales

59. Bottle and can recycling drive

Virtual Fundraising Ideas

60. Online fundraising gamification or rewards-based campaigns

61. Social media challenges

62. Crowdfunding campaigns

63. Livestream fundraising event

64. Virtual 5K or step challenge

65. Online cooking class hosted by a local chef

66. Virtual trivia or bingo hosted via Zoom

67. E-sports or video game tournament

68. Online peer-to-peer walkathon

69. Corporate branded merch sale

Seasonal Corporate Fundraising Ideas

70. Halloween costume contest

71. Valentine's candy-gram fundraiser

72. Holiday gift drive

73. Summer corporate BBQ fundraiser

74. Ugly holiday sweater contest with entry fees

75. Spring cleaning office garage sale

76. Pumpkin carving or decorating contest

77. Holiday wrapping paper service (executives wrap gifts for staff donations)

---

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!

Start Planning a Corporate Golf Event With GolfStatus!

Click Here to Get Started With a Free Event Website

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 Jen Wemhoff, Communications Manager at GolfStatus

Mulligans are a low-lift option to add real revenue to your charity golf tournament. They cost you nothing to offer, golfers of all skill levels love them, and they’re one of the easiest add-ons to any golf tournament.

Many golf tournament organizers leave money on the table by either not offering mulligans at all or not pricing, packaging, and selling them effectively. Learn how to leverage mulligans for your next tournament.

What is a Mulligan?

A mulligan is simply a “do-over” or a chance for a golfer to retake a shot without it counting against their score.

Mulligans aren’t allowed in professional or official competitions, but are a staple of charity tournaments. They’re less about strict rules and more about fun and raising money for your cause. Golfers who shank a tee or approach shot are usually more than happy to pay a few dollars to erase it and keep the round moving.

Golfers who hit a poor tee shot are happy for the chance for a “do-over” by using a mulligan.

How to Price Mulligans

There’s no single “right” price—it depends on your tournament, format, competitiveness, and what golfers are used to paying. Here are a few general suggestions:

• Casual charity tournaments: $5-$10 per mulligan. A reasonable price point keeps sales volume high.

• Competitive or higher-end tournaments: $15-$25 per mulligan. Golfers at higher-end events tend to have more discretionary income to spend and can justify the higher cost.

• Bundles: Selling mulligans as a set—for example, three mulligans for $20 instead of $10 each—encourages golfers to buy more than they might as a single.

Whatever price point you decide, think about it the way you think about sponsorship and registration packages. Even though most golfers at a charity event already know they’re there to support a cause, you still want to offer value, and they’re generally willing to spend accordingly.

---

Pro Tip: Ask for feedback on mulligan pricing in your post-tournament communications with golfers to help you lock in options for next year.

---

Building Mulligan Packages That Sell

Pricing is only half the equation. How you package mulligans can have a big impact on whether or not golfers decide to buy them. Consider these mulligan package options:

• Bundle them into team registration. Consider an upgraded registration tier that includes a set number of mulligans per golfer or team, so those who want the cushion of a mulligan don’t have to make a separate purchase decision later.

• Sell them as a standalone add-on. Not everyone wants mulligans bundled in—and some golfers may want additional mulligans than what’s included with a package. Give them the option to add mulligans à la carte during registration and at check-in.

• Fold them into VIP or premium packages. Another option is to pair mulligans with other perks, like premium parking, extra raffle tickets, or contest entries, to make an upgrade package feel like a deal rather than an upsell.

• Offer tiered mulligan bundles. Offer a “basic” bundle of two or three mulligans at a lower price, and an “upgraded” bundle of four or five at a better price per mulligan to give golfers options without overcomplicating the package.

• Pair mulligans with raffle tickets. Golfers who buy one of these are often receptive to the other, so consider offering a combo package that includes both mulligans and raffle tickets.

List a mulligan package on your event website to make it as easy as possible for golfers to buy them.

The goal with any package for mulligans is to make the decision easy. Keep your menu of options simple and clearly priced on your event website so golfers can make their selection without having to think through a ton of choices.

Where & How to Sell Mulligans

Mulligans sell best when they’re easy to buy in the moment someone’s already thinking about them, so it’s a best practice to offer them before the tournament and at the course.

• At registration. Include mulligan options in the online registration flow so golfers can add and pay for them without a separate transaction. This is the prime converting moment, since golfers already have their credit card out and are ready to buy.

• At check-in. Some golfers wait until tournament day to decide, and others may want to add additional do-overs, so make sure mulligans are just as easy to purchase when they arrive at the golf facility.

• On the course. Consider setting up a mulligan station or two near the tee box of notoriously tough holes. A well-timed mulligan offer right before a challenging hole can be one of your highest-converting moments of the day.

Across all three touchpoints, the common thread is removing as much friction as possible. If buying a mulligan means finding cash, hunting down a volunteer, or filling out a form, you’ll lose sales. A mobile-friendly event website lets golfers buy mulligans (or anything else) right from their phones, wherever they are in the course, keeping the process quick and easy and eliminating the headache of tracking and reconciling cash payments.

---

Pro Tip: Post QR codes that link directly to the mulligans package on your event website at the check-in table and any mulligan stations for easy access.

---

Direct golfers to your mobile-friendly event website to purchase mulligans at the event, eliminating the need to hassle with and reconcile cash payments.

Communicate Rules to Keep It Fun & Fair

Mulligans work so well because they’re lighthearted, not because they let anyone buy their way to winning a tournament. It’s crucial to set clear limits and expectations up front. A common approach is limiting mulligan purchases to two to four per golfer and specifying where they can be used, such as for tee shots only. Communicate the rules on your event website and again at check-in so there’s no confusion, frustration, or push-back mid-tournament. You might even post signage that explains mulligan usage.

Physical mulligan cards, tickets, or wristbands can help volunteers and other golfers see at a glance who has purchased them and how many they have left, which cuts down on disputes and keeps the pace of play moving.

Mulligan FAQs

Why should we offer mulligans at our tournament?

For nonprofits, golfers’ willingness to pay is a golden opportunity. Mulligans require no inventory, vendors, or setup, beyond deciding your pricing and how you’ll sell them, which means every dollar collected goes straight toward your mission.

Are mulligans allowed at all golf tournaments?

Mulligans aren’t utilized in official or professional competitive tournaments, but they’re standard practice at charity events and other casual formats where the focus is fun and fundraising. As the organizer, you get to set the rules for your own event.

How many mulligans should we let golfers buy?

Most tournaments cap purchases somewhere between two and five per player. Capping the number keeps the format fair and prevents mulligans from feeling like a way to buy a win rather than the fun add-on they’re intended to be.

Where on the course can golfers use mulligans?

Many tournaments limit mulligans to tee shots only to keep play moving and avoid disputes over lies in the fairway or on the green. That being said, you can allow them for any shot—the key is to communicate the expectations clearly before the round starts so there’s no confusion. Mulligans can’t typically be used on hole-in-one contest holes and in putting contests.

Do we need physical mulligan cards?

Physical cards or wristbands give volunteers an easy way to verify purchases and their use on the course. Selling them through your event website ahead of time (or from a phone on tournament day) cuts down on the need to handle cash and makes reporting easier post-tournament. If golfers buy them ahead of time, have them ready for pick-up at check-in.

Should mulligans be included in registration or sold separately?

Both approaches work, and offering them both ways helps you capture the most revenue possible. Bundle a set number into an upgraded registration or VIP package for golfers who want the cushion built in, and offer them as a standalone add-on for everyone else.

What’s a reasonable price to charge for mulligans?

It depends on your event, goals, and field, but $5-$10 per mulligan is typical for charity golf tournaments. Higher-end events may be able to charge $15-$25 per mulligan. Bundling mulligans together at a slight discount usually outperforms selling them individually.

Turn a Small Add-On Into Real Revenue With Mulligans

Mulligans won’t replace sponsorships or registrations in terms of revenue, but they’re an easy win to fold into your tournament. With thoughtful pricing, a simple package structure, and a frictionless way to buy, mulligans can add meaningful dollars to your tournament’s fundraising outcomes, all from something golfers already want.

Mulligans are a great way to build in easy, low-cost revenue drivers to charity golf tournaments. Make it easy to package, list, and sell with a free event website from GolfStatus. Websites are powered by GolfStatus’ golf event management platform, which streamlines and simplifies tournaments to save organizers time and help raise more money for your cause, and backed by a team of golf fundraising pros. Book a meeting to find out more and get started at no upfront cost!

Get Started With GolfStatus at No Upfront Cost

Book a Quick Meeting

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.

Putt Putt Fore Puppies has kicked off planning for year four of the mini golf fundraiser for Capital Humane Society (CHS). The event is planned by the GolfStatus team to bring the Lincoln community together to raise operating funds for CHS and help more pets find families.

2026 Event Details & Goals

📅 Friday, September 18, 2026

🕞 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. (shotgun start at 4:30)

📍 Adventure Golf, Lincoln, Nebraska

🔗 Event website

Goals for 2026 are similar to years past:

🎯 Donate $13,000 to CHS

🎯 Cover tournament costs with sponsorships and in-kind donations

🎯 Sell out all three courses at Adventure Golf (54 teams / 216 golfers)

🎯 Provide a fun community event and a great experience for participants

Swag Sponsor: Raising Cane's

Welcome from Presenting Sponsor Sinclaire Hille Architects

Pin Flag Sponsor: Ross Eickhoff State Farm

Putt Putt Fore Puppies

Putt Putt Fore Puppies

On-course games included Plinko

Putt Putt Fore Puppies

Putt Putt Fore Puppies

Golfers check out the live leaderboards

Winners of the Backwoods Course

Winners of the Red Course

Golfers used pet toys to putt for one of the on-course games

Putt Putt merch for sale

Adoptable friends from CHS joined the fun

Pet Spotlights

Golf Ball Sponsor: Company Cam

Putt Putt Fore Puppies

Golfers check out raffle prizes

What’s New in 2026

Sponsor outreach. We’re leveraging a newly developed GolfStatus resource, the Golf Tournament Sponsorship Pitch Deck Template, to facilitate sponsor outreach with a customized deck with Putt Putt’s brand colors and content. It’s already paid dividends, as Sinclaire Hille Architects renewed their support as presenting sponsor for the fourth year!

New package names. Because we didn’t need to make any fundamental changes to team or sponsorship packages, we decided to have some fun with package names that leaned into the tournament beneficiary: animals. Say hello to the Best in Show Presenting Sponsor, Fetch Champion Golf Ball Sponsor, Hydration Station Sponsor, Tail Wagger Pet Toy Sponsor, and Paw-ty Break Sponsor (and many more). Golfers can choose from an All-Star Pack or Paw Print Team Registrations.

Paws of Fame Pet Spotlight. Every pet deserves to be in the “Paws of Fame,” so this package also got an upgraded name. The pet spotlights were a huge hit with golfers last year, with many oohs and aahs over the adorable pets, and the team is excited about featuring even more furry friends on signage.

Tilly

Pippa

Winston, Honcho, and Koda

Remi, Tilly, and Winnie

Zurich Ann Stahr

Luna and Lexi Prall

Gunner Watson

Piper

Gigi Watson

Rupert

Waffles

Red Willow

New golfer gifts and raffle prizes. To keep things fresh for returning supporters, the planning team is exploring new golfer gifts and finding sponsors to underwrite costs, like hats, tote bags, and pet toys. We’re also connecting with organizational partners and business owners in our personal networks to secure high-value raffle prizes to provide even more value to participants.

50/50 ball drop + sponsor. The ball drop (attendees purchased numbered balls for $10 each, giving them the chance to win half of the total dollars raised from the ball drop) was a late addition to the tournament in 2025, with the planning team deciding to include it just a couple of weeks before event day. It was incredibly popular, but having more time to market it to golfers will be helpful. A sponsorship was added to this fun tournament add-on, and it sold within a few days of registration being opened. Thanks, Belmont Veterinary Center!

Refreshed on-course games. On-course games have been popular with golfers, so this year we’re giving them a refresh and working with sponsors to build a game around their business. For example, the presenting sponsor is Sinclaire Hille Architects, so the team is exploring games that incorporate building.

Merch is back! Ball markers and magnets featuring Pete, the Putt Putt Puppy; stickers with the event logo and likeness of several of the pet spotlight animals; and additional event t-shirts will all be on sale to boost revenue.

New t-shirt design. This year’s tournament t-shirt features the mascot from the Paw-some Partner T-shirt Sponsor, Woof Dog Care Center, along with Pete, the Putt Putt mascot, and a couple of Pete’s friends.

Planning Progress

Planning for year four of Putt Putt Fore Puppies is much different than year one. Instead of building the tournament’s infrastructure as we go, we can simply draw upon what we’ve already established and find ways to improve the experience and fundraising outcomes. We reworked and streamlined our tournament planning project based on the recently revised Golf Tournament Fundraising Checklist and Planning Timeline and lessons learned from the event’s previous years, which has helped clearly define team members’ roles and responsibilities.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by GolfStatus (@golf_status)

The planning team felt like we hit our stride in 2025 and didn’t make any significant changes to the tournament’s core components—time, location, format, main sponsorships, and team packages—for 2026, which made it easier than ever to copy the event and have our event website launched sooner than in previous years.

An important lesson learned so far in planning: Order materials as early as possible. As soon as the tote bag and golf ball sponsorships were sold, those items were ordered. The tote bags arrived with a misprint, but thankfully, we have plenty of time to work with the vendor to get replacement bags printed and shipped ahead of September.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by GolfStatus (@golf_status)

---

Learn more about Putt Putt Fore Puppies, register a team, make a donation, or become a sponsor!

---

Thank you 2026 sponsors!

Best in Show Presenting Sponsor

Bone Appétit Dinner Sponsor

fetch champion golf ball & treat bag sponsor

pawsome partner
t-shirt partner

lucky dog ball drop sponsor

dapper dog hat sponsor

tail wagger pet toy sponsor

paws & prizes swag sponsor

zoomies dj & music sponsor

paw-ty break sponsor

ink & paws printing sponsor

hole sponsors

---

Tournament Results

Three-year Totals

💰 $37,000 raised for CHS

🏌️ 576 golfers

🤝 87 sponsors

♥️ 56 volunteers

Year 3: 2025

• Golfers / Teams: 200 / 50

• Courses: 3 of 3

• Sponsors: 28 (plus 9 Pet Spotlights)

• Outcomes: $13,000 donated to CHS

  • $2,000 raised on tournament day

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by GolfStatus (@golf_status)

Year 2: 2024

• Golfers / Teams: 216 / 54

• Courses: 3 of 3

• Sponsors: 31

• Outcome: $15,000 donated to CHS

  • $5,500 raised on tournament day

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by GolfStatus (@golf_status)

Year 1: 2023

• Golfers / Teams: 164 / 41

• Courses: 2 of 3

• Sponsors: 21

• Outcomes: $9,200 donated to CHS

  • $1,100 raised on tournament day

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by GolfStatus (@golf_status)

by Jen Wemhoff, Communications Manager at GolfStatus

Traditional golf tournaments are ideal fundraisers and a proven way to raise serious funds. But for nonprofits with a dispersed donor and supporter base, it can be challenging to rally local support. Other nonprofits may be limited by course availability in their area or have concerns about unpredictable weather with a traditional golf fundraiser.

A virtual golf fundraiser is a smart, viable alternative to an in-person event. With low risk and broad reach, a virtual format allows you to engage supporters—and expand your donor base—from anywhere without the logistical concerns of a single-location event.

This guide will cover how to structure, monetize, and execute a successful virtual golf tournament fundraiser to maximize impact.

Table of Contents

• Virtual Golf Tournament FAQs

• Best Practices for Planning & Execution

• Creative Ideas to Maximize Virtual Golf Engagement & Revenue

Virtual Golf Tournament FAQs

What is a Virtual Golf Fundraiser?

Essentially, it’s a decentralized tournament where participants play a round at a local golf course (or even a simulator) on their own schedule. Instead of golfers gathering at a single golf facility on a single day, your supporters can participate from anywhere during a designated time period and still compete together in a unified event.

Much like traditional golf fundraisers, virtual events generate revenue through:

• Golfer registration fees (though they’ll still need to pay green and cart fees at their chosen golf facility)

• Sponsorships

• Donations

Virtual events are also well-suited to a peer-to-peer fundraising element, with a format that blends the competitive fun of golf with the accessibility of online fundraising.

Virtual golf events have the potential to reach a broad audience, especially if your supporter base isn’t localized.

What Are Some Virtual Golf Fundraiser Formats?

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to a virtual event, so be flexible and tailor it to your audience. Here are a few common formats:

1. "Play-anywhere" multi-day format. Your organization chooses a date range (such as a week or weekend), and golfers play a round at a course, day, and time of their choosing. This is the most accessible and scalable option for a virtual event.

2. Hybrid format. This combines an in-person event with a virtual component. Local golfers attend your in-person tournament, while out-of-town supporters compete remotely at the same time. A hybrid event offers the networking and camaraderie of a traditional golf tournament with the accessibility and reach of a virtual tournament.

3. Indoor simulator format. Partner with simulator venues like TopGolf or X-Golf to host synchronized, weather-proof, indoor events. This option can be perfect for winter fundraising in urban audiences.
   
   

What Are the Benefits of Hosting a Virtual Golf Fundraiser?

A virtual golf fundraiser offers several key advantages that can translate into higher fundraising outcomes:

• Broad reach. No geographic limits means golfers can join from anywhere, increasing participation.

• Reduced overhead costs. Because you’re not renting a golf facility or providing food and beverage, there are next to no costs associated with venue rental, catering, and on-site staffing.

• Flexibility. With some virtual tournament formats, golfers can play when it fits their schedule, making it easier for busy supporters to participate.

• Digital engagement. Use technology and social media to create a fun, interactive, and shareable event experience that keeps golfers connected.

• Weather-proof. A virtual event eliminates the risk of cancellation, the need to reschedule, or low turnout due to inclement weather.
  
  

When is the Best Time to Host a Virtual Golf Fundraiser?

Virtual events can be held year-round, and the flexibility of a virtual format means you can align the event with your broader fundraising calendar.

Want to engage donors during the offseason? Consider a winter simulator event. Looking to build momentum before Giving Tuesday? Try a multi-day virtual tournament in early fall. Want to engage remote supporters in tandem with your annual in-person golf fundraiser? Add a hybrid virtual component.

Best Practices for Planning & Execution

A successful virtual golf event requires the right systems and structure to make it feel polished and professional, along with effective communication strategies to make it feel cohesive.

• Leverage golf-specific software. An event management platform is a must-have for an in-person golf event, and a virtual setup makes it even more important. Trying to manage a virtual tournament relying on spreadsheets or standard ticketing software is a recipe for disorganization and confusion. Golf event tech ensures a seamless experience for everyone, plus massive time savings for organizers.

• Maximize passive data capture. One of the biggest missed opportunities in any type of golf tournament is limited data collection. With paper registration forms, one team member registers, leaving you without contact information for the rest of the golfers. Online registration eliminates this hurdle, capturing email addresses for every participant so you can build a stronger donor database and improve marketing and fundraising efforts.

• Negotiate partnerships with golf facilities. In areas where your organization has a strong donor presence, you might work with a handful of golf facilities to negotiate discounted rates and fees for tournament participants. These “preferred virtual courses” benefit from more players, more food and beverage sales, and more exposure to guests. What’s more, having standardized courses can offer better consistency in scoring (though it’s not necessary).

• Outline clear rules. Clarity is everything in a virtual setting. Without it, confusion and disputes can derail your event. To keep things running smoothly, define and communicate the following at the outset of the tournament:

  • Tournament format, whether it’s a four-person scramble, individual stroke play, two-man best ball, etc.

  • Scoring. Explain how scores are to be submitted, what app needs to be downloaded and used, and where participants can access the leaderboards. The mobile app should integrate into your golf event management platform.

  • Equipment/technology requirements. If yours is a golf simulator event, specify the necessary golf simulator requirements to participate.

  • Eligible facilities. Outline the requirements of the facility, such as the course’s par, slope rating, number of holes, etc., to help level the playing field. If you are working with preferred courses or a specific simulator franchise, be sure to

  • Timeframe. Set the start and end dates/times for the virtual tournament.

  • Code of conduct. Make expectations for sportsmanship and fair play as clear as possible.

It’s important to explain to virtual golf event participants how scores will be submitted and where they can access the leaderboards.

Creative Ideas to Maximize Virtual Golf Engagement & Revenue

One challenge of virtual tournaments is keeping participants engaged from afar. Creating shared experiences can keep golfers connected and even boost revenue.

• Sell digital add-ons. Digital add-ons are low or no-cost to your tournament. These might include virtual mulligans, an online silent auction, entries into virtual on-course games, or a virtual raffle drawing.

• Solicit themed donations. Boost fundraising by setting up themed donation tiers. Get creative and offer fun donation options like "Bogey Insurance" or "Take a Virtual Shot."

• Drive social media interaction. Encourage participants to share their experience and keep everyone feeling connected with user-generated content. This could include a branded event hashtag, trick shot video contests, or photo challenges from each golf course.

• Involve club pros or other special guests. Invite the golf pro at a local golf club, a local celebrity, or even a well-known supporter to record a welcome video or motivational message that’s shared on the tournament website or sent directly to golfers. This personal touch adds credibility and builds excitement for your event.

• Host virtual opening and/or closing ceremonies. Create bookends for your tournament with live virtual events. Open the event with a welcome message, sponsor recognition, and an event overview. Wrap up the tournament by announcing winners, drawing raffle prizes, and publicly thanking sponsors, volunteers, and golfers.
  

How to Sell and Fulfill Digital Sponsorships

Sponsorships are a major driver of revenue, even for virtual formats. The key is translating on-course visibility into digital exposure. Here are some ideas:

• Use an event website. Digital sponsorships start with your golf tournament website, where you can list packages, sell sponsorships, and onboard sponsors in one place. Logo placements throughout the platform offer broad digital exposure every time someone visits the site to register or make a donation.

• Digital leaderboard naming rights. Offer a title sponsorship for your virtual event’s live leaderboard. To provide maximum exposure, include the sponsor’s name: The [Sponsor] Live Leaderboard or the Live Leaderboard Presented by [Sponsor].

• Push-notification sponsorships. Sell the ability to send push notifications through your live scoring app to all golfers during their round. Messages could include promotions for their business, simple sponsor recognition (“The back nine is sponsored by [Sponsor]), or even calls-to-action to donate on your event website.

• Virtual hole sponsorships. Use your live scoring app’s hole-by-hole scorecard to assign sponsor logos and boost visibility. Highlight virtual hole sponsors further through email blasts, social media posts, and in-app messages.

• Create a digital swag bag. Replace the traditional golfer gifts with a digital version that doesn’t require shipping. It could include valuable gifts like promo codes, discounts, and special offers from sponsors or other partners. Deliver it via email to golfers, giving sponsors direct access to your audience.

Anyone, anywhere should be able to access the event’s virtual live leaderboards on your event website.

Wrapping Up

A well-executed virtual golf fundraiser can be just as impactful as a traditional golf event, or even more. With low costs, flexibility, and a broad reach, a virtual golf tournament is an opportunity to expand your audience while increasing your fundraising potential.

The key? Using golf-specific event management software lays the foundation for a successful virtual event, keeping your planning team organized and on the same page, providing a home base for decentralized participants, and offering digital sponsor exposure.

Pairing a strong event strategy with the right technology, setting clear expectations, and building engaging digital experiences will help you run a seamless virtual golf tournament fundraiser that delivers real results.

Start Planning a Virtual Golf Tournament With GolfStatus!

Click to Get Started at No Upfront Cost

About the Author

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, CMO / Professional Golf Entertainer & Fundraiser at Charity Golf International

Planning a charity golf event can get overwhelming fast—especially when you’re trying to set fundraising goals that are ambitious, but achievable. Ensuring your goals are realistic and pricing teams and sponsorships accordingly sets your tournament up for success from the get-go.

Andrew Herbert, far right, provides professional on-course entertainment and fundraising at a charity golf tournament.

The best approach to setting your tournament’s fundraising goals is simple: start with your baseline information and costs, then layer in proven revenue multipliers that increase giving without slowing play or creating donor fatigue. Here are five strategies to help you set realistic fundraising goals—and actually reach them.

1. Start with the baseline: player count + entry fee

It’s important to start with the basics. The most reliable place to start is to determine:

• How many golfers you’ll have

• What each golfer pays to play

So if you’re expecting a full field of 144 golfers for an 18-hole event, the entry fee for a foursome to play is $1,000, and the facility cost per foursome is $600 ($150 per golfer), you can realistically set a goal of $14,400 from golfer entries.

• 144 golfers / 36 teams X $1,000 entry fee per team = $36,000

• 144 golfers / 36 teams X $600 facility cost per team = $21,600

• Net of $400 per team X 36 teams = $14,400

It’s important to remember that higher entry-fee events typically have an audience that’s already bought into the mission, meaning they’re more inclined to give on the course, too.

2. Add Revenue Multipliers That Reliably Increase Giving

Once you’ve established your baseline, you can multiply your revenue by:

Adding Professional On-course Contests + Entertainment

When contests are professionally run and fun, giving feels natural rather than forced. Always keep the on-course donation requests to no more than three (two is the sweet spot), as doing more will create “donor fatigue” with your guests. It’s important to note that this does NOT include the games you host on your own that are included with event registration.

Accepting Credit Cards

Events that make donating or purchasing upsells easy tend to raise significantly more. Cash-only giving leaves money on the table and can complicate post-tournament accounting.

Choosing the Right Venue + Day

The right golf facility and tournament timing can influence turnout, sponsor interest, and overall spend. Consider your audience and networks when choosing the host golf facility, date, and day of the week.

Male and female long-drive professionals from Charity Golf International can help boost on-course fundraising and guest satisfaction.

3. Use Resources to Help Set Goals You Can Justify to Your Board & Sponsors

Your organization’s board is likely looking for tournament goals that are as close to reality as possible. Those goals also help you set appropriate pricing for sponsorship packages.

Instead of blindly guessing, use your baseline information in a planning tool to provide models for:

• Conservative outcomes

• Realistic outcomes

• Stretch outcomes

Charity Golf International has developed a golf tournament donation calculator to help tournament organizers map out goals and the path to get there. Input your baseline information to get an estimate on outcomes.

A Practical Goal-Setting Framework

Use this practical framework to help you set your goals and targets.

• Conservative: Entry-fee revenue + ~50% more from on-course + raffle/auction

  • Example: $14,400 + $7,200 (50%) = $14,400

• Realistic: Entry-fee revenue + ~75–100% more

  • Example: $14,400 + $12,240 (80%) = $26,640

• Stretch: Entry-fee revenue + 125%+ more with strong execution

  • Example: $14,400 + $18,000 (125%) = $32,400

Using a golf event management tool like GolfStatus supports this effort, making it easier to create targets, track progress, and meet your tournament’s goals.

4. Think Beyond One Year

The strongest events build momentum. When you retain golfers and sponsors year over year, fundraising becomes easier—and grows faster. As you set your targets for this year, think about how they will impact future golf events’ potential revenue.

Selling a sponsorship for long-drive entertainers is another way to help drive additional revenue from your golf event.

Maximize Fundraising With Charity Golf International & GolfStatus

CGI isn’t just “another contest vendor.” We help golf events increase revenue and maximize your fundraising goals by delivering:

• Professional-led Par 3 + Par 5 experiences that create high-energy giving moments

• Smoother operations, with less burden on volunteers and planning committees

• A premium guest experience that supports bigger donations

• Zero upfront cost to the charity (CGI is performance-based)
  

Why GolfStatus Matters for Your Goal

GolfStatus helps event organizers run a tighter tournament—from registration to sponsor management—so the fundraising plan you set is actually executable. In other words:

• Better organization = better sponsor experience

• Better sponsor experience = more renewals + higher dollars

• Smoother logistics = more time/attention on fundraising moments

If your goal is to raise more without adding chaos or gimmicks, CGI can help. Get in touch to find out more about CGI.

---

Book a Meeting with GolfStatus

Get started with GolfStatus’ golf tournament management software at no upfront cost!

by Jen Wemhoff, Communications Manager at GolfStatus

Advertising is an area where you can truly see your tournament grow and scale. It can be the difference between a half-empty field and a sold-out, high-energy event that attracts both golfers and sponsors and raises significant funds for your organization.

Effective golf tournament advertising can help your golf fundraiser grow, scale, and boost revenue.

A robust golf tournament advertising strategy ensures your event doesn’t just happen—it thrives. This guide breaks down the basics with FAQs about golf tournament advertising, a step-by-step outline, and a sample campaign plan to help you fill your tournament and secure high-value sponsorships.

Table of Contents

• Golf Tournament Advertising FAQs

• How to Create a Golf Tournament Advertising Campaign

• Example Golf Tournament Advertising Campaign Plan

• Golf Tournament Advertising Best Practices

Golf Tournament Advertising FAQs

What is Golf Tournament Advertising?

At its core, golf tournament advertising is the strategic promotion of your event across digital, print, and community channels. Its goal is to attract golfers, sell out teams, and secure sponsors to fund the event.

Why is Golf Tournament Advertising Important?

Advertising ensures a full field for your charity golf tournament, which is a key part of covering golf facility costs and reaching fundraising goals. Strong visibility also demonstrates to sponsors that their brand will get exposure to a large, engaged audience. In short, consistent promotion elevates your tournament from a simple round of golf to a highly anticipated, must-attend event in your community.

What are the Best Golf Tournament Advertising Ideas?

You have a lot of choices when it comes to advertising your golf event, but here are some of the top ideas that are cost-effective and provide solid results:

• Use a dedicated golf tournament website where you can direct all advertising. It should offer online registration through a frictionless process.

• Run geo-targeted social media ads on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to target prospective golfers and sponsors in your area.

• Execute a phased email marketing campaign to hit participants with appropriate messaging at various stages of planning, such as Save the Date → Early Bird → Last Chance.

• Partner with the host golf facility to post tournament flyers in their pro shop or clubhouse, list the event on their website, or, if possible, on cart GPS screens.

• Provide promo kits to sponsors, board, and committee members so they can easily advertise the event to their own networks. Include logos, graphics, and canned social media and email verbiage to make it as simple as possible.

When using print materials, be sure to include a QR code that links to your golf tournament website.

When Should We Start Promoting a Charity Golf Tournament?

A good rule of thumb is to start reaching out to sponsors four to six months out from tournament day, though it’s never too early to start. Your public promotion will ramp up in the final months and weeks leading up to the tournament.

How to Create a Golf Tournament Advertising Campaign

1. Define Your Campaign Goals and Target Audience

Start by identifying who you want to reach. Are you trying to fill the last 20 player spots with local golfers, or are you targeting corporate executives for high-ticket sponsorships? Set concrete goals for golfer registrations, sponsorships, and marketing success.

2. Launch a Centralized Event Website

Before you send a single promotional email or print a flyer, you need a mobile-friendly event website. Prospective golfers or sponsors should never have to download a PDF or mail a check to register for your tournament, so make sure your site is live before advertising begins.

---

Get a Free Golf Tournament Website

Launch a professional, branded event website in minutes with GolfStatus. The website acts as your campaign hub, automating golfer registrations, donations, and sponsorships online 24/7.

---

3. Define and Package Your Inventory

Your inventory is golfer or team registrations and sponsorship packages. Conduct an audit and ensure it includes a mix of physical assets (pin flags, hole signage) and high-margin digital assets (live leaderboard or mobile app branding and push notifications).

Package ideas include:

• Technology Sponsorship

• Pin Flag Sponsorship

• Hole-In-One Contest Sponsorship

• Elevated Hole Sponsorships

• Individual Golfer Registration

• Team Registration (Twosome or foursome)

• Add-On Packages (raffle tickets, mulligans, on-course games, etc.)

---

Pro Tip:

List all team and sponsorship packages on your GolfStatus event website so interested golfers and businesses can browse packages, see each option’s benefits, and commit on the spot. The software’s back end makes it simple to track registrants, sold sponsorships, and payments in one place.

---

4. Map Out an Omnichannel Promotion Strategy

Plan a coordinated approach across multiple channels to reach the widest audience possible. Use generative AI to quickly write copy for channels like social media ads, email campaigns, short-form video (like Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts), and text message marketing. Encourage peer-to-peer promotion by giving supporters branded assets to share, and include testimonials from previous fundraising events or past golf tournaments to further strengthen your appeals.

Remember: All channels should include a CTA (call to action) that directs people to your event website, even print pieces. Use a QR code that links to the website so people can register from their phones.

5. Maximize Digital Real Estate

In your advertising, highlight opportunities that provide multi-touchpoint visibility before, during, and after the tournament. Digital placements are a great option to attract sponsor interest and offer engagement beyond the day of the tournament.

GolfStatus’ exclusive Technology Sponsorship embeds the sponsor’s brand across the platform, giving them premium exposure on the event website, live leaderboards, live scoring mobile app, and more. These placements don’t come with overhead costs, which means more profit for your organization.

Digital exposure with multiple touchpoints, like that provided by GolfStatus’ Technology Sponsorship, offers sponsors broad visibility.

Example Golf Tournament Advertising Campaign Plan

---

Ready to Launch Your Tournament With GolfStatus?

---

Golf Tournament Advertising Best Practices

From optimizing your sponsorship packages to unique options for spreading the word, these best practices will help you make the most out of your advertising efforts.

• Be specific in your sponsorship listings. When adding sponsorship packages to your events website, be specific. Include identifying names, such as “Hole-In-One Contest Sponsor," "Beverage Cart Sponsor," or "Leaderboard Sponsor," and include details about the accompanying sponsorship benefits. This helps businesses justify the spend and understand the ROI of their support.

• Integrate physical and digital assets. When leveraging physical assets, like flyers, postcards, or signage, use a QR code that links to your event website. This helps you track registrations from non-digital sources.

• Work with local media. Send press releases to local newspapers, community magazines, and local radio and television stations. If your tournament benefits a local charity, media outlets may be willing to provide discounted or free ad space. You might also utilize online community calendars or events listings.

• Engage with micro-influencers. Hyper-local influencers can often have a larger impact than a more well-known A-lister. Connect with local influencers to spread the word about your event.

• Empower your planning team. Turn your planning committee and board members into an active sales team. Similar to peer-to-peer campaigns, you might create a friendly competition to see who can recruit the most sponsors or golfers or get the most engagement on posts by leveraging their personal and professional networks.
  

Wrapping Up

Golf tournament advertising takes some trial and error to find the right tactics and strategies that work for your supporter base. Test different options, measure your results, and lean into messaging and channels that resonate with your audience. By putting in the marketing work, you’ll cast a wide net to secure registrations, sell sponsorships, and ensure your tournament is the one that everyone wants to be part of.

Make sure you have the right golf management tech in place to streamline planning, management, and execution for a memorable experience. GolfStatus’ software, combined with industry-leading support and exclusive Fundraising Enhancers, can make your tournament better than ever. Click below to book a meeting with the GolfStatus team to get started at no upfront cost.

Offer Better Sponsorships & Raise More Money With GolfStatus

Click Here to Get Started at No Upfront Cost!

About the Author

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 Jen Wemhoff, Communications Manager at GolfStatus

On-course contests are where charity golf tournaments can come alive. A simple, engaging, and profitable option is a putting contest. With minimal setup, low overhead, and high participation potential, a well-run putting contest can generate meaningful dollars while giving golfers something extra to look forward to on tournament day.

Whether you’re looking to boost revenue, attract sponsors, or create a memorable moment that brings everyone together, a putting contest checks all the boxes. Let’s break down the most common questions, popular formats, and proven best practices to help you host a putting contest that's easy to manage and hard to forget.

Table of Contents

• Golf Putting Contest FAQs

• How to Host a Golf Putting Contest

Golf Putting Contest FAQs

What is a Golf Putting Contest?

A golf putting contest is a standalone on-course game held during a golf event such as a charity scramble, corporate outing, or club championship. It’s often held on the golf facility’s practice green and takes place before the shotgun start, during the tournament when teams play a hole near the practice green, or post-round as part of the awards ceremony.

Unlike the larger tournament, where total score matters, a putting contest tests golfers' short-game skills. Golfers pay an entry fee to participate in the contest and attempt to make a long-range putt or series of putts. Some tournaments hold contest rounds, with successful putts advancing to the next round to compete for cash or other high-value prizes.

Why Should We Host a Golf Putting Contest?

Putting contests have the potential to drive significant revenue from your charity golf tournament. Why? There are low to no overhead costs (golfers bring their own putters, and the golf facility provides the hole and golf balls, and you can source donated prizes), and entry fees drive fundraising. What’s more, a putting contest is a prime sponsorship opportunity, much like hole-in-one contests. The practice green is a high-traffic, high-value exposure point, boosting the value of a contest sponsorship.

A putting contest can also break up a long day on the course. A high-stakes contest finale held before dinner, awards, or auction draws a crowd, creating an electric atmosphere and a shared highlight that attendees talk about until next year's event.

What are Popular Golf Putting Contest Formats?

Guaranteed Prize

• How it works: All participants line up at a pre-determined distance, perhaps 10 feet. Those who make it move back to another distance, like 20 feet, then 30 feet, etc., continuing until only the winner remains.

• Pros: This format guarantees a winner and a prize awarded right then and there. It also has a very low barrier to entry for golfers and is fairly simple to run.

• Cons: This type of contest can take 15–20 minutes to complete, so it must be scheduled carefully to not interfere with the rest of the tournament.

Cash Prize

• How it works: A qualifying round is held to determine one finalist. That finalist gets one single attempt from 50+ feet (often 60 feet) for a large cash prize.

• Pros: Offering a significant cash prize can draw in large crowds and more participants.

• Cons: Insurance is a must, and it can take a while to process the claim.

Other Variations

• Putt a prize. Various prizes are placed on the practice green, and golfers win the prize if their putt hits it or stops within a certain distance.

• “Pig” or “Golf”. Similar to the basketball game, where one player sets up a putt and makes it, and others must replicate the putt or get a letter.

• Team relay. Team members must sink a putt from certain distances (such as five feet, 10 feet, 20 feet, etc.) in succession. The team with the fastest time wins.
  

What Else Should I Know About Golf Putting Contests?

• If you’re interested in offering cash or non-donated prizes, you might consider putting contest insurance, which comes with a cost. A more cost-effective option is to secure donated prizes from sponsors, local businesses, or partners.

• Use your golf tournament website to sell entry into the putting contest. You can sell entry as a standalone item or bundle it with other tournament add-ons, like raffle tickets or mulligans. Sell entry ahead of the event, as well as at check-in, to maximize participation.

• Publicize the contest on your event website and in promotional campaigns. Highlight prizes, how much it costs to enter, and when the contest will take place. Be sure to give a shoutout to the contest sponsor when applicable.

How to Host a Golf Putting Contest

1. Choose the Right Format

Step one is to decide if the primary goal of a putting contest is high-margin fundraising or high-energy entertainment. If you need to raise money without any overhead, a guaranteed prize is a good option. If you want to make a big splash, an insured $10,000 contest might be the better choice.

2. Secure the Location & Schedule

Putting contests are most commonly held on the practice green before the start of the golf tournament. If there are multiple practice greens, choose the one closest to the clubhouse or outdoor bar. The easier it is for spectators to grab a drink or a bite to eat and watch, the larger your crowd (and the higher the energy) will be.

If you have the contest on the practice green during the round or at the turn, there’s a risk of creating a bottleneck. Choose a rapid-fire format to prevent backing up the entire tournament. You might also consider hosting finals at the end of the day for a climactic finale to the event.

3. Lock Down Logistics

If you’re utilizing putting contest insurance, you’ll likely have to abide by various requirements, which might include:

• Exact putt length. You’ll be required to measure the putt’s distance to the exact inch using a surveyor’s tape.

• Contest witness. You’ll need to train a witness—either a volunteer, staff member, or planning team member—to watch all of the putts to ensure all of the rules were followed. For high-value prizes, you might need to submit video footage of the putts for verification.

• Standardized equipment. You may need to provide the golf balls and even the golf clubs for the contest.

You’ll also need to determine other contest logistics, such as:

• Entry fee

• Prizes

• Format

• Registration forms

• Plan for crowd control and spectators

• Contest emcee
  

4. Price It Right

• Sell contest entries on your tournament website. This keeps all tournament funds in one place to simplify post-event accounting and eliminates the need to pay with cash for day-of entries.

• It’s a good idea to bundle the putting contest with other add-ons to boost revenue. A combined ticket that includes contest entry with add-ons like on-course games, mulligans, or raffle tickets creates a higher perceived value that can drastically increase participation rates. You might also give golfers the opportunity to buy a second or third qualifying attempt for half the price.

• Sell the Putting Contest Sponsorship as an opportunity for the sponsor to set up a tent, have hole signage, hand out swag, and personally interact with every golfer.
  

5. Create a Fun Atmosphere

The right emcee and commentary transform the putting contest into a spectator sport. Enlist a volunteer to serve as the contest emcee. Provide a microphone (check with the golf facility) to announce finalists, crack jokes, and build excitement.

Since making a 50-foot putt is a rarity, it’s a good idea to have a backup activity to keep the mood high. That way, if the finalist misses, you can pivot to a "Closest to the Pin" chip-off or a raffle draw for a smaller prize or gift so the event ends on a high note.

6. Follow Up After the Contest

• While the contest and excitement are still fresh, announce the winner (if applicable) at the awards ceremony or dinner. Play a video of the winning putt on a projector to engage those who may have missed it.

• Ensure the sponsor is front and center for the check presentation or to award the prize. Even if the big cash prize wasn't won, a photo of the finalist and the sponsor shaking hands is valuable content to use to promote next year’s event.

• Send a "thank you" text or email to contest participants or the entire field with a link to next year's early-bird registration, building on the excitement from the contest.

---

Final Thoughts

A golf putting contest is a high-impact add-on for your next golf tournament. It’s flexible, cost-effective, sponsor-friendly, and when done right, creates a buzz that carries through to marketing next year’s tournament. By choosing the right format, handling the necessary logistics, pricing entries strategically, and leaning into the entertainment value, you can turn the contest into a major fundraising and engagement win.

If you’re ready to put these ideas into action, the next step is simplifying how you manage your contest—and your golf tournament as a whole. Using a purpose-built golf tournament management platform like GolfStatus makes it easy to sell entries online, bundle add-ons, track participation, and keep everything organized in one place—so you can focus on creating an exciting experience.

Make Your Next Golf Event a Swinging Success!

Book a Meeting With GolfStatus to Get Started

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.