Planning a successful fundraiser in the Greater Toronto Area? Custom apparel and gear can make a huge impact—not just as a fundraising product, but as a powerful branding tool. Whether you're hosting a walk, gala, school event, or online campaign, custom gear creates a sense of unity, boosts your message, and increases donor engagement.

But ordering custom gear can be tricky if you’ve never done it before. Here are our top tips to make your next order smooth, cost-effective, and stress-free.

1. Start Early—Earlier Than You Think

Custom orders take time. You’ll need time to finalize designs, approve proofs, collect sizes, and allow for production and shipping. Ideally, begin planning 4–6 weeks ahead of your fundraiser.

If you're in a crunch, PromoPays offers rush orders and fast GTA delivery, but early planning is always better.

2. Know Your Audience

Are you ordering gear for:

• Students?

• Donors?

• Volunteers?

• General public?

• Corporate partners?

Understanding your audience helps you choose the right products and sizing mix.

3. Choose Gear That Matches Your Fundraiser Type

• T-shirts & hats for walks and community events

• Hoodies & jackets for cooler weather or higher donation levels

• Tote bags & water bottles as donor thank-you gifts

• Performance wear for active fundraisers like runs or sports tournaments

• Eco-friendly options for environmentally conscious causes

4. Set a Clear Budget

Determine your per-unit cost goals and desired profit margin. PromoPays works with nonprofits across the GTA and can help you find the best product mix within your budget.

Ask about bundle pricing or bulk discounts to maximize value.

5. Keep Designs Clean and On-Brand

A simple, bold design is more likely to sell and be worn after the fundraiser. Stick to 1–2 colours and ensure your logo or message is easily visible.

PromoPays offers free design support—take advantage of it!

6. Offer a Range of Sizes

Always offer a variety of sizes to be inclusive. If in doubt, order a few extras in common sizes like M, L, and XL.

7. Decide Between Pre-Orders vs. Bulk Orders

• Pre-ordering lets you collect exact quantities and sizes, reducing waste.

• Bulk ordering can save money and provide stock for events or tabling.

PromoPays can help with online pre-order forms and storefront setup to simplify the process.

8. Check for Hidden Costs

Look out for extra charges like screen setup fees, design edits, or rush fees. PromoPays keeps pricing transparent and works to avoid surprise costs.

9. Approve a Digital Proof Before Printing

Always review and approve a design proof before printing starts. Double-check spelling, colours, and placement.

10. Plan for Distribution

Make a clear plan for pickup or delivery. Will you hand out gear at an event? Ship it to donors? Distribute through schools or community centers?

PromoPays can help with individual packaging and labeling if needed.

How PromoPays Helps Nonprofits Order with Confidence

• Friendly nonprofit-focused service

• Local GTA production for fast turnaround

• Low minimum orders to fit any group size

• Custom design help at no extra charge

• Pre-order and online store options for easy management

Let’s Make Your Next Fundraiser a Success

👉 Explore Custom Gear for Fundraisers
👉 Request a Quote with Timeline & Budget
👉 Talk to Our Fundraising Apparel Team

We make ordering simple—so you can focus on your mission. Contact us today.