Peer-to-peer events are not just about the cause – they’re also about the experience. And a little bit of gamification can go a long way in keeping fundraisers motivated, engaged and pushing toward their goals.
We’re talking milestones. Badges. Nudges. Leaderboards. All those subtle signals that make a fundraiser feel like they’re making progress – and being noticed for it.
Gamification: not just for gamers
Gamification is simply the use of game-like elements in non-game settings. In P2P fundraising, that means weaving in things like:
- Fundraising milestones – Celebrate when someone hits $100, $500 or 100% of their goal
- Achievement badges – Reward actions like making the first self-donation or completing their profile
- Leaderboards – Spark friendly competition by showing top individual or team fundraisers
- Personalised nudges – Gently prompt people when they slow down, or cheer them on when they hit a goal
These elements add colour and energy to the supporter experience – and they keep momentum going long after the initial sign-up buzz has faded.
Why it works
Gamification taps into some very human instincts:
- Progress – People like to know they’re getting somewhere
- Recognition – A small badge can feel like a big high five
- Motivation – Visible goals create a sense of urgency and purpose
- Fun – Fundraising doesn’t have to be all serious – let’s make it joyful too
In short, it turns a fundraising campaign into a journey with meaningful steps – not just a single ask for money.
Gamification + supporter journeys = magic
Here’s where things really get exciting. When gamification is paired with a thoughtful supporter journey, each achievement can trigger a moment of connection:
- Hit a fundraising milestone? Cue a celebration email or SMS
- Earned a badge? Send a personalised “you’re awesome” message
- Stalled for a while? Time for a gentle “need help?” nudge
These micro-moments create an emotional rhythm – recognition, encouragement, momentum – that keeps people engaged all the way to event day (and often beyond).
Tools that make it easier
Platforms like Funraisin and Raisely have built-in features that support gamification – from automated badges to milestone-triggered emails and custom dashboards. If you’re using one of these platforms, you’re already halfway there.
The next step? Making sure your comms are tightly aligned with the gamified experience – so fundraisers aren’t just seeing a badge, but feeling the love that comes with it.
Let’s make it personal
Gamification only works if it feels genuine. That means choosing milestones that are meaningful. Celebrating in a tone that suits your brand. And nudging in a way that feels helpful, not pushy.
That’s where we come in. We help charities build smart, human, gamified supporter journeys that create real connection – and serious fundraising results.
Book a chat or get in touch to find out how we can bring your supporter experience to life, one badge (and one nudge) at a time.