How To Run A Krispy Kreme Fundraiser For Schools And PTAs

If you have ever helped run a school fundraiser, you know the challenge. You need something that is easy to organize, appealing to families, and actually raises meaningful funds without burning out volunteers. That is exactly why the Krispy Kreme fundraiser continues to be a favorite for PTAs, PTOs, and school foundations.

A Krispy Kreme fundraiser checks a lot of boxes (pun intended). Parents already recognize the brand, students get excited about donuts, and volunteers do not have to manage complicated sales systems. For busy school communities, that combination matters.

If you are considering a Krispy Kreme fundraiser for your school, this guide walks through how it works, how to get started, and how to make the most of your fundraising effort.

‍

What Is a Krispy Kreme fundraiser?

A Krispy Kreme fundraiser is a school or nonprofit fundraising program where groups sell Krispy Kreme donuts and keep a portion of the proceeds. Most schools use it as a short, high impact campaign rather than a long drawn out fundraiser.

Typically, your group promotes donut sales to families, staff, and the broader community using order forms, flyers, or online tools. Once orders are collected, donuts are delivered or distributed on a scheduled pickup day.

Because Krispy Kreme is a nationally recognized brand, you spend less time explaining the product and more time focusing on participation.

‍

How to start a Krispy Kreme fundraiser step by step

Sign up using the Krispy Kreme fundraiser form

Schools and PTAs start by completing the Krispy Kreme fundraiser form on the official fundraising website. Approval is typically quick for eligible nonprofit and school groups. Once approved, you will receive guidance on available fundraising options and next steps. This helps ensure your fundraiser follows Krispy Kreme’s program guidelines from the start.

Choose your fundraiser type

Krispy Kreme offers several fundraising options, including pre sell donut orders and digital dozens. Your local store may help you choose the best option for your goals. Some schools prefer pre selling donuts for an on campus pickup day, while others choose digital fundraising to reduce logistics. Selecting the right format early makes planning and promotion easier.

Promote your fundraiser

Promotion usually includes flyers sent home, school newsletters, and social media posts. Clear deadlines and pickup details help increase participation. Repeating the message a few times during the fundraiser helps families remember to place their orders. Consistent messaging across channels keeps everyone informed.

Collect orders and distribute

Once sales close, your group distributes donuts or digital certificates according to your selected format. Many schools schedule pickup during dismissal or a school event to make distribution convenient. Planning distribution in advance helps avoid long lines and confusion on pickup day.

‍

Why a Krispy Kreme fundraiser works so well for schools

A Krispy Kreme fundraiser removes many of the barriers that make school fundraising stressful. The product sells itself, which means volunteers spend less time convincing people to participate.

These fundraisers also fit easily into a school calendar. Many groups run them for a short period, often one to two weeks, which helps maintain momentum without overwhelming families.

Because Krispy Kreme offers multiple fundraising formats, schools can choose the option that best fits their community and volunteer capacity.

‍

How much money schools can raise with a Krispy Kreme fundraiser

How much you raise depends on participation and the fundraising option you choose. Many schools earn a set profit per dozen sold, making it easier to estimate totals.

Smaller schools may raise a few thousand dollars in a short campaign, while larger PTAs and district wide efforts can raise significantly more. Because the fundraiser runs efficiently, many groups repeat it annually or pair it with other school fundraising activities.

‍

5 tips for running a successful Krispy Kreme donut fundraiser

A few small planning decisions can make a noticeable difference in how much your school raises and how smoothly the fundraiser runs. These tips are especially helpful for busy PTAs and volunteer teams with limited time.

1. Keep the fundraiser window short and focused

Short fundraisers create urgency and prevent families from putting off their purchase. Most successful Krispy Kreme donut fundraisers run for one to two weeks.

For example, a PTA might open orders on a Monday and close them the following Friday, with donut pickup scheduled the next week. This clear timeline helps families act quickly and reduces reminder fatigue.

2. Clearly explain where the money is going

Families are more likely to participate when they understand the impact. Instead of simply saying you are fundraising, be specific about what the funds will support.

You might explain that proceeds will pay for classroom supplies, field trips, assemblies, or enrichment programs. Including a short sentence like “Each dozen sold helps fund hands-on learning for our students” can significantly boost participation.

3. Offer digital options for easier participation

Digital fundraising options remove common barriers, especially for families who prefer contact free or online purchases. Krispy Kreme digital dozen fundraisers work well for schools with limited volunteer availability.

For example, families can purchase digital dozens online and redeem them later at participating locations. This option also makes it easier for extended family members or community supporters to contribute, even if they do not live nearby.

4. Assign one point person for communication and tracking

Having a single volunteer manage communication and order tracking helps avoid confusion. This person can handle questions, send reminders, and coordinate with Krispy Kreme or your local store.

In practice, this might be a PTA board member who sends weekly email updates and confirms pickup logistics. Centralizing communication keeps everyone informed and reduces last minute issues.

5. Use clear reminders and simple timelines

Even motivated families appreciate reminders. A short kickoff message, one mid-fundraiser reminder, and a final “last chance” message are usually enough.

Pair reminders with clear deadlines and pickup details so families know exactly what to expect. Clear communication and simple timelines consistently lead to stronger participation and fewer volunteer headaches.

‍

Fundraising with All Things Science

Krispy Kreme fundraisers are one of the easiest ways for PTAs, PTOs, and school foundations to raise meaningful funds with strong participation. The product is familiar, simple to promote, and quick to organize, allowing even smaller school communities to reach their fundraising goals.

Schools can also partner with organizations like All Things Science to help increase student participation in enrichment programs by offering fundraising prizes that include free admission to after-school STEM programs, in-school labs, and summer camps.

A well run fundraiser can support your school community while helping more students access enrichment opportunities.

‍

Krispy Kreme fundraiser FAQ

How do you start a Krispy Kreme fundraiser?

You start by completing the official Krispy Kreme fundraiser form online. Once approved, you can choose your fundraising format and timeline.

Is a Krispy Kreme fundraiser good for schools?

Yes. Krispy Kreme fundraising works especially well for elementary and middle schools because the product is familiar and easy to sell.

What is a Krispy Kreme donut fundraiser?

A Krispy Kreme donut fundraiser involves selling donuts or digital dozen certificates and earning a portion of each sale for your school or nonprofit.

Can you run a Krispy Kreme fundraiser online?

Yes. Digital dozen fundraisers allow families to purchase online without handling physical products.

How long should a Krispy Kreme fundraiser last?

Most successful fundraisers run for one to two weeks to keep excitement high and avoid fatigue.

‍