Local businesses can be an untapped resource when it comes to promoting a popcorn fundraiser because they have access to a wide network of customers and supporters within the community. Many businesses are happy to support local schools and organizations, and may be willing to help spread the word about your fundraiser in a variety of ways. In this article we will learn how local businesses can help your popcorn fundraiser event.
For example, a local business could allow you to set up a popcorn stand in front of their store, which would provide exposure to their customers and potentially increase sales for your fundraiser. They could also include information about your fundraiser selling popcorn in their newsletters, social media pages, or email blasts, which would reach a wider audience and generate more interest. In exchange you can use video to highlight their business in return.

Additionally, local businesses may be willing to donate prizes or gift cards that can be used as incentives for participants in your popcorn fundraiser. This can help motivate people to get involved and increase the overall success of your event.
Overall, local businesses can be an important ally when it comes to promoting and supporting your popcorn fundraiser. By tapping into their network and resources, you can increase visibility and participation, and ultimately raise more funds for your cause. The lesson? Make it a core part of your adverising and marketing plan to reach more donors.
Here are 10 ideas for using local businesses to help advertise a popcorn fundraising event at school:
Find ways to incorporate video with each of these. Then post on social media.
Partner with a local movie theater
Partner with a local movie theater to sell popcorn to moviegoers before or after the movie. This will not only help to advertise your popcorn fundraiser, but also provide an opportunity for the theater to offer their customers a tasty snack.
Posters and flyers
Place posters in local businesses: Ask local businesses if they would be willing to display posters advertising your popcorn fundraiser in their store windows or on their bulletin boards. You can get some more popcorn sale flier ideas here.
Pop up stands
Host a pop-up stand at a local farmer’s market: Set up a stand at a local farmer’s market to sell popcorn and raise awareness about your fundraiser.
Custom tins
Create custom popcorn tins for local businesses: Work with a local printer or promotional products company to create custom popcorn tins featuring the logos of local businesses. The businesses can then sell or give away the tins to their customers, helping to spread the word about your fundraiser.
Local sports events
Partner with a local sports team: Partner with a local sports team to sell popcorn at their games or events. This will provide exposure to a large audience of fans and supporters.
Sample testing
Host a taste testing event at a local grocery store: Host a taste testing event at a local grocery store to allow people to sample your popcorn and learn about your fundraiser.
Create a social media campaign: Create a social media campaign targeting local businesses, encouraging them to support your fundraiser and share the word with their customers. You can learn more about our social media ideas for selling more popcorn here.
Restaurants
Ask local restaurants to add popcorn to their menus: Ask local restaurants to add your popcorn to their menus as a special snack or dessert. This will help to raise awareness and provide another opportunity for people to support your fundraiser.
Popcorn Bars
Create a popcorn bar at a local event: Set up a popcorn bar at a local event, such as a fair or festival, to attract attention and promote your fundraiser.
Fundraiser kickoffs
Host a fundraiser kickoff event at a local venue: Host a kickoff event at a local venue, such as a restaurant or community center, to announce your fundraiser and generate interest from the community. You can also offer samples of your popcorn at the event to entice attendees to support your cause.
Reaching out to local companies in your neighorhood is only one part of an effective marketing plan. Learn more about picking a successful slogan for your next popcorn sale.