How to Run a 50/50 Raffle Fundraiser (Step-by-Step Guide)

50/50 raffle fundraiser logo promoting community event planning

Raise money, build excitement, and keep your event buzzing all night long.

If you’ve ever been to a community fundraiser, chances are you’ve seen a 50/50 raffle in action. It’s simple, fun, and one of the easiest ways to bring in extra money. Guests love the chance to win cash, and your cause gets half the pot. Everybody wins.

But while the idea is straightforward, running a smooth and profitable 50/50 takes a little planning. Here’s how to do it right.


Why 50/50 Works So Well

The magic of the 50/50 raffle is in its simplicity. People understand it instantly: buy a ticket, half the money goes to the winner, and half goes to the cause. Because the prize grows with every ticket sold, excitement builds throughout the night. Announce the jackpot from the stage a few times, and you’ll see guests reaching for their wallets again.


Step 1: Get the Basics Ready

You don’t need much to run a successful draw:

  • A roll of double raffle tickets (one for the buyer, one for the draw)

  • Volunteers with aprons or trays to walk the crowd

  • A cash float or mobile payment option (Square, e-transfer QR code)

  • A clear pot and draw container

  • And depending on where you live, a small raffle license from your municipality


Step 2: Set Prices That Sell

The trick to selling more tickets is bundle pricing. Instead of just “$5 per ticket,” offer options:

  • 1 ticket for $5

  • 3 tickets for $10

  • An arm’s length for $20

Guests almost always choose the bundle, which doubles your revenue with very little effort.


Step 3: Sell All Night

Don’t leave sales at a lonely table in the corner — get your volunteers moving through the crowd. Start selling as soon as doors open, and keep going until just before the draw. Announce the pot size from the microphone every so often. Nothing sparks sales like hearing, “The jackpot is already over $1,200!”


Step 4: Make the Draw a Big Moment

Hold the draw toward the end of the night, after the main entertainment. That way, guests stay until the finale. Bring the winner on stage, hand them the cash with a smile, and snap a photo for social media. Share it later with a thank-you post — it shows your event was a success and builds trust for the next one.


Tips from Experience

  • Always check your local raffle rules before you start.

  • Train volunteers to be friendly and confident — their energy drives sales.

  • Accept more than cash. Many people don’t carry bills anymore, so offering e-transfer or card payments can boost totals.

  • If you have a big crowd, consider running two smaller draws instead of one. It keeps the energy rolling.


Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Some groups miss out on easy money because they:

  • Forget to get the right permit

  • Sell tickets only at a table instead of moving through the room

  • Draw too early, which makes guests leave before the night is over

Stay clear of those mistakes, and your 50/50 will be a highlight.


Quick FAQ

Do we need a license?
In most provinces and states, yes. It’s usually quick and inexpensive to get one.

How much can we raise?
Small community groups often add $500–$1,500 to their profit. Larger events have hit $5,000 or more.

Can we do multiple draws?
Absolutely. Just be sure each draw is announced clearly so guests know what they’re playing for.


The Bottom Line

A 50/50 raffle is simple, but it’s powerful. It builds energy, keeps people engaged, and adds real money to your fundraiser with almost no cost. Pair it with headline entertainment like the Jesse Lewis Comedy Hypnosis Show, and you’ll have a night people will remember — and talk about — for years to come.

Back to the Fundraiser Guidebook!