Ideas for marathon fundraising

You’ve got a place in your chosen race and now you need to raise money for the charity you’re supporting. If you’re wondering how to do it best, read on for Teenage Cancer Trust’s top marathon fundraising ideas. 

How does marathon fundraising work? 

It depends on the event you’re signed up for. In cases like the London Marathon, runners can enter a ballot to win a place or sign up to take part in aid of a charity, with a commitment to a minimum level of fundraising. For Teenage Cancer Trust, places cost £100 with a fundraising target of £2,000. We support a range of other running events, from half marathons to ultra challenges, with entry costing as little as £5 alongside a minimum fundraising target. 

What are the best marathon fundraising ideas? 

Get sponsored 

It’s the easiest and most popular way of fundraising ahead of a marathon. After all, you’re putting your body through a huge challenge – and one that the people who know you will admire. Create a JustGiving page, tell people why you’re passionate about your chosen cause, and spread the word among friends, family and colleagues. Not everyone has the money to give, though. So, encourage your supporters to promote your cause on social media, even if they can’t donate themselves. 

Matched funding 

Also known as matched giving, many employers will double the amount you raise for charity. Find out if your company offers this and, if it does, be sure to take advantage of the scheme. 

Hold a marathon fundraising event 

Whether it’s a bake sale or a work happy hour, think about holding a charity fundraising event to nudge you over your cash target. It’ll bring people together and may encourage them to sponsor you as well as buy a slice of cake. You could organise several small events during your fundraising period; sometimes, a little but often can be the best approach. 

Run in fancy dress 

We know, running a marathon – or any race for that matter – is enough of a challenge. But volunteering to run in fancy dress adds another layer of difficulty and entertainment value which may spur supporters into coughing up more cash for your chosen charity. 

Wardrobe raid   

Declutter and sell your unwanted wares online to give your marathon fundraising a boost. It’ll make plenty of room for all the new running gear you’ll be needing! 

Launch a running courier service 

You’ll be on a strict training schedule, especially if you’re running a marathon. So why not use your training as a way of delivering stuff around your community? Ask your neighbours if they want anything picked up and/or delivered in return for a donation. It’ll keep you motivated, too. 

Set up a sweepstake 

Ask local businesses to donate a prize and start a sweepstake for people to guess your estimated race finish time. They’ll be supporting you while also being in with the chance of winning something themselves. 

Extreme makeovers 

Whether you’re braving the shave, or dying your hair a wacky colour, taking on an extreme appearance challenge can help you smash your marathon fundraising target. 

You’ll find plenty more fundraising inspiration with our guides to cheap, easy and quirky ways to support charity. 

How do I get the money raised to Teenage Cancer Trust?

We’ll automatically get the money if you’ve set up an online fundraising page. If you’ve collected cash donations, check out our paying-in money guide. And be sure to register any event in advance to get all the help and resources you need to make it a success.