Stop Running Sub Fundraisers the Old Way: Try These 4 Methods Instead

Sub sandwich fundraisers are popular for a good reason. On any given day, nearly half of Americans will eat a sandwich. And that's why the nostalgic sub sandwich fundraiser works so well—you're already offering something people want and will consume.

But the traditional approach of taking orders on paper forms and stuffing subs into someone's fridge? It's not the only way anymore. Today, organizations have more innovative, easier, and profitable options that still center around the beloved sub sandwich. 

Here are four fresh takes to make the sub sandwich fundraiser still work for you.

1. Pre-order sales

If you love the classic sales-and-delivery method, you can still keep the tradition—just give it a modern upgrade with pre-order sales. 

Partner with a local sub shop, collect pre-orders, place a bulk order, and then distribute everything during a single pickup window.

With a modest $2–$4 markup (depending on pricing and local competition), selling 150 subs can easily net $300 or more in profit. Work with a shop known for quality to justify your upcharge, such as a favorite local deli or a popular chain like Firehouse Subs, Cousins Subs, or Jersey Mike's.

Here's why this method works: 

• Easy to promote through email, text chains, and social media
• Predictable order counts (no waste)

2. Discount cards

Don't just sell a sub once—give people a reason to come back again and again. 

Partner with a local sandwich shop (or chain location) to create a discount card featuring buy-one-get-one offers, dollars off, or other repeat-use deals. Some restaurants already run these programs; others can help you design one. Together, you'll determine the card price and your profit margin.

Here's why this method works: 

• No food handling, storage, or delivery logistics 
• Gives supporters ongoing value
• Encourages repeat visits to your partner's shop

3. Restaurant nights

Plan a restaurant fundraiser at your community's favorite sandwich spot. Pick a day, rally your community, and send customers their way. Your organization earns a percentage of the sales, and the restaurant enjoys a busy night—everyone wins! 

Many major sandwich chains, including Cousins Subs, Firehouse Subs, and Jersey Mike's, already offer dine-to-donate fundraising programs, making hosting an event simple. (Want to boost your earnings even more? Don’t miss tip #4.)

Here's why this method works: 

• No volunteers or planning needed
• Great for busy parents 
• Appeals to supporters beyond your immediate group

4. Gift cards

If you want the profit of a sub fundraiser without all the logistics or chaos, this is the option for you. 

Instead of handling physical sandwiches or relying on a single restaurant night event, encourage your supporters to buy sub sandwich gift cards through your RaiseRight fundraising program. Every gift card purchase earns your organization a percentage back while supporters get the full value of the card.

Popular sub sandwich brands available on RaiseRight include:

• Cousins Subs
• Firehouse Subs
• Jimmy John’s
• Jersey Mike’s
• Publix Supermarket
• Quiznos
• Subway
• Schlotzsky’s
  

You can also use RaiseRight's universal prepaid Visa or American Express gift cards if your preferred sub sandwich shop isn't on RaiseRight.

Even better? Combine gift cards with a restaurant night (tip #3) to maximize your fundraising profits. Have supporters pay for their meal with RaiseRight gift cards, and your organization will earn from both the restaurant and RaiseRight! 

Here's why this tactic outperforms traditional sub sandwich fundraiser methods: 

• No food handling, storage, or delivery logistics
• No volunteers or planning needed
• No upcharges
• Works year-round, not just during an event
• RaiseRight offers more than restaurants—with hundreds of brands available, you can earn a percentage back wherever you prefer to shop or dine!

Earning from routine shopping, dining, and traveling can add up fast—often far outperforming what a traditional sub sandwich fundraiser can bring in.