Search and rescue organizations face unique funding challenges. From grants to corporate sponsorships, discover comprehensive strategies to improve financial support and broaden organizational impact.
Start a fundraiser
Unlock funding for your nonprofit with grants designed for Search and Rescue Organizations. Explore government, foundation, and corporate grants to expand your impact.
Search Team Grant
National Disaster Search Dog Foundation
$1,000
Foundation
Supports active live-find and human remains detection disaster canine handlers in federal and state urban search and rescue systems with training and equipment costs.
FEMA Nonprofit Security Grant Program
Federal Emergency Management Agency
Up to $150,000
Government
Provides funding support for target hardening and other physical security enhancements to nonprofit organizations, including those involved in search and rescue operations.
Community Impact Grant
The Home Depot Foundation
Up to $5,000
Foundation
Supports nonprofit organizations, including search and rescue groups, in their efforts to improve the physical health of their communities through renovation and repair projects.
Partner with businesses that share your mission! Corporate sponsorships can provide funding, in-kind donations, and visibility to help your nonprofit expand and sustain Search and Rescue Organizations efforts.
2.9% + $0.30 per donation
2.2% + $0.30 per transaction; 0.8% for ACH payments*
2.9% + $0.30 per donation
Innovative fundraising fuels your mission. From peer-to-peer campaigns to community events, explore creative ways to raise funds and ensure long-term success for your Search and Rescue Organizations.
Rescue Mission Simulator Challenge
Develop an online rescue mission simulator game where participants navigate challenging scenarios, make critical decisions, and experience the intensity of search and rescue operations. Players can fundraise by getting sponsors for their virtual missions or pay to unlock advanced levels. This engaging digital experience educates the public about SAR work while raising funds.
Wilderness Survival Workshop Series
Organize a series of hands-on wilderness survival workshops led by SAR experts. Participants learn essential skills like navigation, first aid, and emergency shelter building. Charge for attendance and offer tiered packages for multiple workshops. This not only raises funds but also educates the community and potentially reduces future SAR incidents.
Search and Rescue Gear Subscription Box
Launch a monthly subscription box featuring curated outdoor safety and survival gear. Each box includes essential items used by SAR teams, along with educational materials about SAR operations. A portion of each subscription directly supports your organization. This ongoing campaign provides steady revenue and keeps supporters engaged year-round.
Corporate 'Rescue Ready' Partnership Program
Develop a corporate partnership program where local businesses sponsor SAR equipment or training in exchange for recognition and team-building experiences. Offer tiered sponsorship levels with benefits like having company logos on rescue vehicles or exclusive SAR demonstration days for employees. This creates long-term funding relationships while improving community preparedness.
24-Hour Search and Rescue-athon
Host a 24-hour event where teams of participants complete a series of SAR-themed challenges and missions across your local area. Challenges can include mock rescues, navigation exercises, and first aid scenarios. Teams fundraise through sponsorships and live-streaming their progress. This high-energy event raises awareness and funds while showcasing SAR skills.
Virtual 'Search Party' Scavenger Hunt
Create an online scavenger hunt where participants solve SAR-related clues and puzzles to locate virtual 'missing persons' or objects. Use geolocation and augmented reality features to enhance the experience. Players can participate individually or in teams, with entry fees and optional in-game purchases supporting your organization.
Rescue Dog Training Experience Day
Offer a unique hands-on experience where participants can learn about and interact with SAR dogs. Include demonstrations of dog training techniques, mock search scenarios, and opportunities for attendees to try basic handling. Charge for tickets and offer VIP packages for more extensive interactions. This event capitalizes on the public's fascination with working dogs while educating about SAR operations.
Limited Edition SAR Hero Trading Cards
Create and sell collectible trading cards featuring real SAR team members, equipment, and notable rescues. Each card includes stats, fun facts, and QR codes linking to more detailed stories or videos. Launch new series seasonally or annually to encourage ongoing collection. This campaign raises funds while personalizing your SAR team and educating the public about your work.
Outdoor Retailer Roundup Campaign
Partner with outdoor gear retailers to implement a donation roundup program at checkout, both in-store and online. Customers can round up their purchase to the nearest dollar or add a set donation amount, with proceeds supporting your SAR organization. Provide participating retailers with SAR safety tip cards to distribute with purchases, further raising awareness.
Community Emergency Preparedness Challenge
Launch a month-long community challenge where neighborhoods compete to become the most 'rescue-ready'. Provide a checklist of preparedness activities (e.g., creating emergency kits, learning CPR, improving home safety). Teams earn points for completed activities and additional points for fundraising. Culminate with a community preparedness fair showcasing SAR equipment and skills.
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