How Creators Fundraise with Gen Z: Strategies for Lasting Impact
September 26, 2025
byGiveable Research
Gen Z is changing the way fundraising works. They are not only the most socially conscious generation but also the most connected online. For creators, fundraising with Gen Z is both an exciting opportunity and a challenge. Gen Z cares about impact, authenticity, and transparency, and they are quick to support causes they believe in. But they are also quick to walk away from campaigns that feel forced or insincere.
So how can creators build meaningful fundraising strategies that resonate with Gen Z? Let’s dive in.
Why Gen Z Is Different
Unlike previous generations, Gen Z has grown up in an era where activism, social issues, and digital platforms are deeply connected. According to Pew Research, Gen Z is more likely than older generations to engage in online activism and push for accountability.
This generation wants more than slogans. They want to see real stories, transparency about where funds go, and proof that their participation is creating impact. That means creators must be intentional in how they present fundraising campaigns.
What Gen Z Looks for in Fundraising
- Authenticity First
Gen Z can spot performative actions quickly. If a creator promotes a cause without showing genuine connection, trust disappears. For example, a fashion influencer raising funds for garment workers has more credibility if they share personal stories from visits to production sites. - Transparency About Money
Transparency matters to all donors, but it is non-negotiable for Gen Z. According to Charity Navigator, accountability and openness are the top factors in building donor confidence. Creators who clearly explain where money goes will win Gen Z’s trust. - Interactive Participation
Gen Z wants to do more than click donate. They like to join live events, challenges, or social media campaigns that allow them to be part of something bigger. A gaming streamer hosting a live fundraiser where donations unlock challenges is one example. - Alignment with Values
As Nonprofit Tech for Good notes, Gen Z is deeply values-driven. They support causes that connect to climate action, equality, education, and mental health. Creators who align fundraising with these values will find strong support.
Examples of Creators Fundraising with Gen Z
- Livestream Fundraisers: Twitch and YouTube creators often host charity streams where viewers donate while enjoying content. These events let Gen Z see real-time progress and feel part of the mission.
- TikTok Challenges: A creator might launch a hashtag challenge where every video posted adds to awareness and fundraising momentum. Gen Z thrives on participatory trends.
- Community-Focused Campaigns: A lifestyle creator raising funds for local schools and showing updates on how classrooms benefit will resonate with younger supporters who value community impact.
Practical Tips for Creators
Here are strategies creators can use to effectively engage Gen Z in fundraising:
- Be Transparent in Every Update. Share what each donation level achieves. For example, “$20 buys one week of school lunches.”
- Use Storytelling That Inspires. Share stories of real people impacted by the cause, not just statistics.
- Make It Social. Invite Gen Z to share, repost, and even co-create campaign content.
- Leverage Visuals. Infographics, short videos, and authentic photos capture attention more than text-heavy posts.
- Acknowledge the Community. Celebrate the collective effort, not just individual contributions.
When creators make fundraising feel like a movement rather than a transaction, Gen Z responds with energy and loyalty.
How Giveable Supports Fundraising with Gen Z
For creators, the hardest part is often managing the technical side of fundraising while staying transparent. This is where Giveable helps.
- Transparency Built In: Giveable makes it easy to show exactly where funds go and how impact is measured.
- Tools for Engagement: Campaign dashboards and updates help creators keep Gen Z involved from start to finish.
- Ease of Use: Creators can focus on storytelling while Giveable handles the logistics.
- Trust at Scale: With Giveable, audiences know they are part of something authentic and accountable.
Final Thoughts
Creators who want to fundraise with Gen Z must focus on authenticity, transparency, and shared participation. This generation wants to see impact, be part of the journey, and align their support with causes they truly believe in.
When creators combine storytelling with tools like Giveable, fundraising becomes more than a request for money. It becomes a movement that inspires trust, builds loyalty, and drives real change.
Connect with Gen Z and build transparent campaigns with Giveable today.