Raising funds for your 501c3 is both a science and an art.  If you are operating a new 501c3, you should take a close look at fundraising methods that have had lots of success in the past and add your own creativity and uniqueness to the method.

Grants.  Many small 501c3 organizations find and apply for grants which are available in the local geographic region and which closely align with their purpose and cause.  You can often find these grants online, through a network of business and personal contacts, etc.

Current Donors.  As you obtain grants and contributions from individuals and foundations, these grantors and contributors are often more than willing to recommend your organization to other potential donors.  Your current donors are likely to have a good amount of confidence in your organization and thus, will want to see your organization grow and succeed.

Membership Dues.  Accept members into your organization and let them be a part of the organization.  The members will support your cause.  They will pay small membership dues which provide an additional source of funds.  Members will also be great for attracting and bringing other members into the organization.

Crowdfunding.  Using this online method of raising funds, you are able to raise money from a large number of people due to the internet and the benefit of social media.  Many campaigns have raised millions of dollars using this method.

Matching Grants.  Many companies match the donations of their employees.  As your organization grows its base of individual donors, you will find that many of those donors work for employers who will match the donations of the employee.  Thus, you can double those contributions with little effort involved.  When collecting information on donors, collect the name of their employer.  For larger employers, you can find information online for their contribution matching programs.

Program Service Revenues.  Depending upon the activities and programs that your organization provides to its participants, you may be able to charge a small fee for some of the programs that you offer.  For instance, if you offer Saturday workshops, you can charge a small fee as a way of raising funds or you may ask the participants to provide a donation if they like.

Fundraising Drives.  You may have an annual festival or some other type of event periodically with fun, games and food as a way of both raising funds and letting individuals know about your organization.  Other common types of fundraising events:  Car washes, baked goods sales, etc.

And remember, raising funds is a science and an art.