Case study: Appco UK transforms their approach to private site fundraising

Appco UK has long been committed to developing and refining effective private site fundraising campaigns. Rather than relying solely on traditional storytelling methods, Appco UK has consistently focused on a core question: how can we equip fundraisers with conversation-starting tools that spark meaningful dialogue with potential supporters? 

By moving away from information-heavy banners towards interactive, thought-provoking engagement methods, Appco UK is reshaping what effective face-to-face fundraising looks like. Below, we look at some real-world examples and how the public received them. 

Rethinking Private Site Materials

Appco UK collaborates with charity partners to design materials that become conversation aids rather than information broadcasts. These thought-provoking banners and attraction strategies are deliberately crafted to raise interest and encourage people to approach fundraisers rather than the other way around.

The fundraising signage is designed to: 

• Aid conversation rather than replace it

• Maximise supporter engagement with the charity's brand

• Encourage foot traffic and approachability

• Create an enjoyable environment for fundraisers

The goal is clear: create tools that maximise supporter engagement with the charity's brand and key messages while making the fundraiser's job more natural and enjoyable.

Interactive Engagement Methods

Appco UK has developed several innovative engagement methods that encourage meaningful interactions aligned with the charity's mission.

Interactive Post-Box Campaign

For a blood cancer research charity, Appco UK created miniature post boxes at private site stands. Individuals were invited to write messages of congratulations and well-wishes for a young beneficiary about to start school, thanks to life-saving treatment. The collected messages were later presented to the child and his family, transforming a fundraising interaction into something deeply meaningful and emotional. 

This approach has fundamentally changed how campaigns connect supporters with charity beneficiaries, moving beyond traditional promotional materials to directly connecting supporters with the people they're helping.

True or False Game

Working with another well-known charity, Appco UK developed a 'True or False' game to spark engagement and facilitate meaningful conversations. Supported by creative banners and wraps, the game proved remarkably effective. 

The excitement for this interactive campaign resulted in:

• People actively sought out the stand to participate

• Footfall increased dramatically 

• Conversations flowed more naturally

• Fundraisers reported greater job satisfaction

• Local businesses benefited from the positive attention drawn to the area

Extending Reach with QR Code Innovation

Beyond interactive physical elements, Appco UK has integrated QR codes into their engagement strategy. Rather than viewing QR codes as a technical feature, they've positioned them as conversation tools that extend engagement to those unable to commit to an immediate donation.

One example used a simple QR code scan directed users to the charity’s website where they could enter the draw, learn more about the cause, and explore raffles and other fundraising options. Some supporters even chose to subscribe to regular donations directly through the link. Private site fundraisers utilised the QR code to maintain brand awareness and supporter connection without creating pressure, whilst providing alternative engagement options.

A Conversation-First Approach

What ties these methods together is Appco UK's core philosophy: private site fundraising works best when it uses and evolves new tools that are centred around starting meaningful and memorable conversations. Whether through the emotional connection of a post-box campaign, the natural engagement of an interactive game, or the flexibility of a QR code, each method creates space for meaningful dialogue to begin and supporters to feel part of the cause.

Benefits of using creative and engaging fundraising materials: 

• Supporters feel valued

• Fundraisers enjoy more authentic interactions

• Charity partners receive better-quality donors

• Communities experience positive brand presence. 

Appco UK treats supporting materials as conversation aids, allowing it to continuously test innovative, human-centred fundraising approaches.