Fundraising is a vital part of ensuring cheerleading teams can continue to thrive and compete at their best. As with many sports groups, the high costs of uniforms, travel expenses to competition fees, and other essential gear, the financial burden on cheer squads can be significant. Whether you're a high school cheer team, a competitive squad, or a youth cheerleading group, finding creative ways to raise money is crucial to making the season a success. That's where cheerleading fundraiser ideas come in. These fundraising efforts not only help cover the costs but also build team spirit and involve the community in supporting the team.

In 2025, it's more important than ever to think outside the box when planning your next fundraiser. This list of cheerleading fundraising ideas is designed specifically to meet the unique needs of cheerleading teams, helping you raise money in fun and innovative ways. Whether you're looking for one-time events or ongoing fundraising strategies, these 20 cheer fundraising ideas will give you the tools you need to reach your financial goals and set your team up for a successful season ahead.

1. Cheerleading Car Wash

One of the easiest and most effective cheerleading fundraisers for cheerleading teams is a car wash. Set up a car wash station at a local parking lot, such as a grocery store or a community center, where traffic is high. Offer different wash packages at various price points, ranging from a basic wash to a more thorough cleaning with waxing. To maximize attendance and revenue, promote the event on social media platforms, local community groups, and via flyers. You can even offer a "tip jar" for additional donations from customers who are pleased with the service.

• Why it works: Car washes are a simple, low-cost event that attracts steady traffic from locals. It’s a community-friendly activity that’s easy to execute with minimal supplies and volunteers. Plus, people love a clean car, making it a popular option for raising funds while offering a valuable service.

2. Cheerleader Show-Off Event

A Cheerleader Show-Off Event is an excellent way to display the skills and routines of your cheerleading team while raising money. Host a performance for friends, family, and local supporters, charging an entry fee or offering donations. You can also create a fun, competitive element by allowing the audience to vote for their favorite routines or stunts in exchange for a donation. Make sure to promote the event through social media and local schools to attract a larger audience.

• Why it works: This event showcases the cheerleaders' talents, engages the community, and allows supporters to see firsthand the hard work the team puts in. It provides an opportunity to entertain and raise funds simultaneously, making it a memorable and enjoyable experience for all involved.

3. Spirit Gear Sales

Selling team spirit gear, such as custom T-shirts, hats, bags, or water bottles, is a fantastic way to fundraise while promoting team pride. You can design merchandise with your team's colors, logo, and mascot, creating items that fans and supporters will be eager to purchase. Consider setting up an online store or collaborating with a local retailer to sell the gear. The more personalized and unique the designs, the more likely people will want to wear and showcase the team's spirit.

• Why it works: Fans love showing their support by purchasing team merchandise. It not only generates funds but also serves as a form of advertisement for the team. Spirit gear is an ongoing source of income as long as the team maintains strong support and a dedicated fan base.

4. Cheerleader Auction

Host a cheerleader auction where team members offer services like babysitting, pet-sitting, or cleaning, or even auction off unique experiences, such as cooking a homemade meal. Each cheerleader can provide a list of services they’re willing to offer, and the highest bidder wins. This can be done as a live event or online through social media channels. Don’t forget to advertise these auction items ahead of time to build excitement!

• Why it works: Personal services often hold high value for community members, and the personalized nature of the services makes it a unique and meaningful way to raise money. Supporters love the chance to get involved and support the team while receiving something valuable in return.

5. Discount Card Fundraiser

Partner with local businesses to create a discount card fundraiser. These cards offer customers discounts or special deals at participating local shops, restaurants, and services. The cheerleading team can sell the cards to supporters for a small fee, with a portion of the proceeds going toward the team’s fundraising goal. Discount cards can be valid for a set period, and the businesses involved may be willing to offer even more value as the event draws near, enticing more customers to purchase.

• Why it works: Discount cards provide tangible value to customers while raising money for the team. It’s a win-win scenario, where participants get discounts, local businesses gain visibility, and the cheerleading team receives a portion of each sale. Additionally, this fundraiser can run for a longer period, generating ongoing income.

6. Talent Show Fundraiser

A talent show fundraiser is a fantastic way to showcase not only the cheerleading team’s routines but also the hidden talents of other community members. Host an event where cheerleaders can perform their stunts and routines alongside local participants displaying their own skills, such as singing, dancing, comedy, or even magic. Charge an admission fee for the event, and encourage donations throughout the show. You can also offer prizes for the most popular performances, adding a fun competitive element.

• Why it works: Talent shows attract a wide variety of participants and audiences, making it a great event for all ages. It encourages community involvement and offers entertainment while raising funds for the team. The diversity of performances ensures there's something for everyone, which helps draw in a larger crowd.

7. Sponsorships from Local Businesses

Local businesses are often eager to support community initiatives, and cheerleading teams provide a great opportunity for sponsorship. Reach out to businesses to sponsor team uniforms, events, or specific needs like travel expenses or competition fees. In return, the businesses can advertise their logos on uniforms, banners, or event materials, offering them increased exposure. You can offer sponsorship levels that range from small contributions for minor needs to larger donations for major expenses.

• Why it works: This type of sponsorship generates significant funds for the team while providing local businesses with valuable advertising opportunities. It also strengthens the bond between the team and the community, as businesses are more likely to support teams that bring local visibility and recognition.

8. Cheerleading Clinics

Hosting a cheerleading clinic is one of the fantastic cheerleading fundraising ideas to raise funds while fostering the next generation of cheerleaders. Offer a cheer clinic where younger children or even adults can learn cheerleading basics like stunts, cheers, and tumbling from your experienced team. Charge a fee for participation, and promote the clinic to local schools, gyms, and community groups. You can also offer a performance at the end of the clinic where participants can showcase what they’ve learned.

• Why it works: A cheerleading clinic helps grow the sport and community while raising money. It gives younger kids the opportunity to experience cheerleading firsthand and encourages them to join future teams. Additionally, the clinic highlights your team’s leadership and skill, which can attract more supporters.

9. Bake Sale with a Twist

A traditional bake sale fundraiser can be given a cheerleading-themed twist by making treats that align with the team's spirit. Offer cookies shaped like megaphones, cupcakes decorated as pom-poms, and cake pops in the team's colors. You can set up a stand at a local event or even in high-traffic areas like schools or grocery stores. Be sure to market your items ahead of time on social media to create buzz and excitement.

• Why it works: Bake sales are always popular, and adding a cheerleading twist makes the event more engaging and relevant. People enjoy supporting the team while also getting a sweet treat, and the theme ties everything back to the cheerleading spirit, making it more memorable.

10. Cheerleading Bingo Night

Organize a Bingo Night where participants can purchase bingo cards to play for a chance to win exciting prizes. To make the event more engaging, offer prizes donated by local businesses or create cheerleading-related prizes such as autographed items, tickets to events, or team merchandise. Set up a casual, family-friendly atmosphere, and promote the event through social media and flyers. Don’t forget to encourage additional donations during the game to boost fundraising efforts.

• Why it works: Bingo nights are easy to set up and attract large crowds, making them a great option for fundraising. The prizes incentivize participation, and the social, fun nature of bingo creates an atmosphere that encourages attendees to stay engaged and donate. Plus, it’s an affordable and accessible event for people of all ages.

11. Virtual Fundraising Campaign

A virtual fundraising campaign is a great way to reach a broader audience and get online donations. Set up a campaign through online crowdfunding platforms like *spotfund, where team members can share their personal stories and explain how donations will be used. By using social media to spread the word, your campaign can gain traction far beyond your local community. You can also offer incentives, such as team shout-outs or small rewards, for donors at different levels.

• Why Choose *spotfund: It stands out as a user-friendly and cost-effective platform, making it ideal for cheerleading teams. It charges no platform fees, ensuring more of the funds raised go directly to your team. Its social media integration amplifies your reach, helping campaigns go viral and attract donations from people outside your local community. *spotfund also provides tools to track progress and engage supporters, ensuring your virtual campaign runs smoothly and successfully.

• Why it works: Online campaigns allow you to tap into a global audience, making it easy to reach friends, family, and alumni who may not be able to attend local events. When shared on social media, these campaigns can go viral, bringing in significant contributions from unexpected sources.

Ready to take your fundraising online? Use *spotfund to create an impactful virtual fundraising campaign for your cheer team. With easy setup, seamless social media integration, and no upfront costs, Spotfund is the perfect platform to reach a global audience and maximize your donations. Get started today and watch your team’s spirit shine far beyond the local community!

12. Cheerleading Apparel Swap

A cheerleading apparel swap is a creative fundraising event to help families who may not afford new gear while simultaneously raising funds for the team. Organize an event where cheerleaders and their families can donate gently used cheerleading clothes, shoes, and accessories. Participants can swap items or purchase them for a small fee. Be sure to advertise the event in advance and encourage donations of new or gently used items.

• Why it works: This event not only helps those in need but also builds a sense of community. Families can save money by swapping items, while the team raises funds through registration fees or donations. It’s a great way to give back while supporting the team’s financial goals.

13. Cheerleader-Hosted Zumba Class

Combine cheerleading with fitness by hosting a Zumba class led by the cheerleaders. Set up a fun, high-energy session where participants can follow along with cheerleaders as they guide them through a Zumba workout. Charge a fee for participants to attend, and provide a group discount or family rate to encourage more sign-ups. Consider offering a "cheerleader of the month" challenge to keep things exciting and engage participants.

• Why it works: This event promotes both physical fitness and the cheerleading spirit, making it a fun and healthy way to raise money. Zumba’s popularity means you’ll likely attract a large group of participants who enjoy dancing while supporting a good cause.

14. Cheerleading Spirit Night at a Local Restaurant

A Cheerleading Spirit Night at a local restaurant is an easy and effective fundraising event to raise money. Partner with a nearby restaurant or café and arrange for a portion of the evening’s sales to be donated to the cheerleading team. Be sure to promote the event through flyers, social media, and local school newsletters to encourage supporters to dine in or order takeout.

• Why it works: Spirit nights are convenient for both the restaurant and the team, making it a win-win situation. Supporters can enjoy a meal out while contributing to the team’s fundraiser. Plus, this idea encourages repeat business for the restaurant, which could help foster a long-term partnership.

15. Cheerleading Raffle

Host a raffle where supporters can purchase tickets for a chance to win exciting prizes, such as gift cards, team memorabilia, or tickets to local events. Be sure to offer a variety of prize options at different price points to attract a wide range of participants. You can hold the raffle during a community event, practice, or online to increase accessibility.

• Why it works: Raffles are a great way to incentivize donations, offering supporters the chance to win something valuable in exchange for their contribution. It’s an easy way to raise funds while keeping participants engaged and excited about supporting the team.

16. Cheerleader Car Parade

A Cheerleader Car Parade is one of the fun and unique cheerleading fundraising ideas to showcase team spirit while raising money. Organize a parade where cheerleaders decorate their cars with team colors, logos, and symbols, then drive through the community. Participants can pay a fee to join the parade or donate for the opportunity to have their car featured. To add excitement, you can offer prizes for the best-decorated vehicles or organize a fun route through local neighborhoods to increase visibility.

• Why it works: This event creates excitement and boosts community visibility, while giving people the chance to show their support in a creative way. It’s also a visually engaging event that can be easily promoted through social media, helping to attract more participants and donations.

17. Custom Cheerleading Calendars

Create and sell custom cheerleading calendars featuring team photos, action shots from competitions, and behind-the-scenes moments. Each month can highlight a different cheerleader or a memorable moment from the season, providing fans with a personalized and lasting keepsake. Calendars can be sold to family, friends, and local supporters, either in person or online.

• Why it works: This fundraising calendar gives supporters a product they can cherish throughout the year while helping the team financially. Custom calendars are a great way to showcase the cheerleaders' personalities and talents, making them a popular choice among fans and families.

18. Team-Based Fitness Challenge

Organize a team-based fitness challenge where supporters pledge donations based on the team’s performance. For example, donors can pledge a certain amount for each push-up, lap run, or mile completed by the cheerleaders. The team can set a goal for a specific number of tasks to be completed, creating a fun and competitive atmosphere. Promote the challenge through social media and offer progress updates to keep donors engaged.

• Why it works: This idea is interactive and engaging, as it ties fundraising directly to physical challenges and personal goals. Supporters enjoy the opportunity to see the team push their limits while contributing to a cause they care about. The personal connection created by the challenge motivates people to donate and keep track of the team’s progress.

19. Cheerleading Carnival

Host a cheerleading carnival with a variety of fun attractions for the whole family. Set up booths for games, food stalls, face painting, and bounce houses, along with performances by the cheerleaders showcasing their routines. Charge an entry fee for the event and sell tickets for individual attractions. You can also host contests or raffles for additional fundraising opportunities.

• Why it works: A carnival provides a fun, family-friendly environment that attracts a wide audience. With games, food, and entertainment, it offers something for everyone, ensuring a large turnout. Additionally, the performances by the cheerleaders will encourage more community involvement and raise awareness for the team’s fundraising efforts.

20. Cheerleader “Sponsor a Stunt” Campaign

Set up a “Sponsor a Stunt” campaign, where community members can sponsor specific stunts or routines performed by the cheerleaders. For example, someone could sponsor a basket toss or a pyramid, and their name or business will be displayed on a banner or mentioned at the event. This campaign can be especially effective during competitions or performances, where sponsors are acknowledged in front of the crowd.

• Why it works: This fundraiser creates a personal connection between the cheerleaders and their supporters. Sponsors feel directly involved in the success of the team, and the ability to see their name associated with specific stunts or routines makes the donation feel special. It also allows for varying donation levels based on the significance of the stunt.

Conclusion

Fundraising is essential for any cheerleading squad to cover expenses like uniforms, travel, and competition fees. With these 20 successful cheerleading fundraising ideas, your team can raise the money needed to achieve its goals while building community support and showcasing team spirit. From hosting car washes and bake sales to running virtual campaigns and cheerleading carnivals, there’s a perfect idea for every squad to succeed in 2025.

To take your efforts to the next level, use *spotfund to raise money online. *spotfund makes it easy to create a professional virtual fundraising campaign, share it on social media, and connect with supporters both locally and globally.

Start your campaign today and empower your cheerleading squad to reach new heights!