Running a Fundraiser
Raise money for your classroom, school, or students with zero platform fees on donations.
What You Can Fundraise For
SchoolHouseStock fundraisers are designed for education-related needs. Here are some popular uses:
- Classroom supplies — Books, art materials, science equipment, technology
- Field trips — Transportation, admission fees, chaperone costs
- School projects — Garden builds, library updates, maker space equipment
- Student support — Backpacks, school supplies for students in need
- Technology — iPads, Chromebooks, robotics kits, STEM equipment
- Professional development — Conference fees, workshop materials, certifications
0%
Platform fee on donations. Every dollar goes to your cause.
Stripe's standard processing fee (~3%) still applies.
Creating a Fundraiser
Go to Dashboard → Fundraisers → Create
Click "Create Fundraiser" to get started. You'll need to be a registered seller (it's free) to create fundraisers.
Set your fundraiser details
Add a compelling title (e.g., "Help Mrs. Garcia's 3rd Graders Go to the Science Museum"), a heartfelt description explaining what the money is for and why it matters, your fundraising goal, and a cover image.
Share the link
Once published, you'll get a unique fundraiser URL. Share it with parents, colleagues, your school community, and on social media. Donors don't need a SchoolHouseStock account to contribute.
How Donations Work
Donating is simple for supporters. They visit your fundraiser page, choose any amount, and pay with a credit card through Stripe. No account required. They'll receive a receipt via email immediately.
Donations are processed through your connected Stripe account, so funds go directly to you. SchoolHouseStock charges zero platform fee on fundraiser donations. The only cost is Stripe's standard processing fee (~3%).
You can track progress from your Dashboard — see total raised, number of donors, and how close you are to your goal. Donors can see the progress bar on your fundraiser page, which creates momentum and encourages more contributions.
Tips for Success
Tip
Fundraisers with a photo of the students or classroom they'll benefit raise 2-3x more than those without. Show the real people behind the campaign.
- Add a personal photo — A photo of your classroom or students makes the campaign feel real and personal.
- Set a deadline — Urgency drives action. "Help us raise $500 by March 15" is more compelling than an open-ended ask.
- Share in school newsletters — Parents want to help. Include the link in your weekly parent email or class newsletter.
- Post on social media — Share on your personal Facebook, in parent groups, and on your school's page.
- Thank your donors — A quick thank-you post when you hit milestones keeps the momentum going.
- Update with progress photos — After you've used the funds, share photos of the supplies, field trip, or project. Donors love seeing the impact.