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The holiday rush is over, the decorations are packed away, and temperatures have dropped. It’s a time of year when fundraising can quietly slip into hibernation. But winter doesn’t have to freeze momentum. With a few timely, creative ideas, contributions can stay strong all season long. Here are five practical campaign ideas to help keep supporters engaged through the coldest months of the year.

1. The “Warm-Up” Campaign

Nothing defines winter quite like the search for warmth. This makes it the perfect theme for a seasonal push. Focus on retailers that help beat the cold and bring comfort to dark winter days.

Coffee shops are always in high demand: Starbucks, Tim Hortons, and Second Cup Café provide easy opportunities for supporters to warm their hands and help the cause at the same time.

Restaurants offering hearty meals, such as Swiss Chalet, Moxie’s, and BarBurrito, are ideal for comforting dinners when cooking isn’t on the menu. And for those nights when staying under a blanket is the main event, food delivery options like SkipTheDishes, Uber Eats, and DoorDash turn a cozy night in into a contribution.

“Warm up with a hot chocolate and support the cause!” makes a simple and memorable message for this campaign theme.

2. The “New Year’s Resolution” Push

January is synonymous with fresh starts. Many supporters are already thinking about better habits, healthier routines, and new goals. A resolution-themed campaign gives them a practical way to stay on track while contributing at the same time.

Groceries are central to nearly every New Year’s refresh, from healthier meals to meal-planning routines. Pharmacies and wellness retailers, such as Shoppers Drug Mart, offer an extensive range of everyday essentials and wellness-focused products, including beauty items, vitamins, personal care products, and basic groceries. Another great choice is Saje Natural Wellness, with its natural, holistic solutions for pain, sleep, stress, and mood, fit seamlessly into the theme.

Sporting goods stores like SAIL, Sport Chek, Decathlon, and Running Room are also popular this time of year. Whether supporters are buying new winter running gear, trying snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, or preparing for climbing and hiking adventures, these retailers align perfectly with the “New Year, New Me” spending trend.

3. The “Indoor Project” Fundraiser

Winter is prime time for indoor home improvement. Many households tackle repairs, reorganizing, and small upgrades that they put off last year.

This creates an ideal opportunity to highlight retailers like Home Hardware, RONA, Kent, and Canadian Tire. From storage bins and tools to lighting and décor, indoor project spending adds up quickly and can generate significant contributions for campaigns. A fundraiser themed around organizing, refreshing, or renovating brings a practical angle that resonates this time of the year.

4. The “Big Game” Bonanza

Football fans know that winter brings one of the biggest sporting events of the year. Whether supporters are hosting a full-scale party or simply enjoying snacks on the couch, "Big Game" spending is nearly universal.

“Hosting a party for the big game? Get all the supplies with gift cards from FundScrip!” positions grocery gift cards as an easy win. Retailers like Metro, Loblaws, and Sobeys offer everything from chips and dips to wings, drinks, and desserts. This campaign idea is simple, timely, and easily encourages participation.

5. The “Get Ready for Valentine’s” Reminder

Valentine's Day shows up quickly after the new year, often faster than people expect. Planting the seed early can boost fundraising activity well ahead of February 14.

Restaurant, spa, and movie theatre gift card options all fit the theme perfectly. Supporters planning a date night can pick up something thoughtful while also helping the cause. For even more inspiration, encourage them to browse FundScrip’s Valentine’s Day Gift Guide.

For campaign administrators, the key to winter fundraising success is tying the campaign to what supporters are already buying during the season. Each idea above meets everyday needs in a simple, timely way. Pick a theme and send a fresh email to the group this week. And don’t forget, posting on social media is an easy way to keep engagement high. For inspiration, check out FundScrip’s social media tips for winter fundraising.