How to Run a Virtual Talent Show for Schools (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Define the Purpose and Fundraising Goal

Start by answering two simple questions:

• What are we raising funds for?

• How much do we realistically want to raise?

Clear goals help shape communication and motivate participation. Whether it’s new sports equipment, classroom resources, or school upgrades, people give more readily when they understand the impact.

For a broader fundraising strategy overview, see:
School Fundraising Ideas That Actually Work

Step 2: Decide What Talents Learners Can Showcase

One of the biggest advantages of a virtual format is inclusivity. Learners don’t need stage confidence—just creativity.

Encourage a wide range of talents, such as:

• Singing or playing an instrument

• Dancing or choreography

• Comedy or storytelling

• Poetry or spoken word

• Magic tricks or unique skills

The more inclusive the categories, the higher the participation.

Step 3: Choose a Digital Fundraising Platform

Running a virtual talent show manually creates unnecessary admin. A digital platform simplifies everything by centralising:

• Video hosting or embedding

• Secure online payments

• Access control for viewers

• Fundraising tracking and reporting

This reduces teacher workload and ensures transparency.

Learn how schools are using this model successfully:
Virtual Talent Show Fundraising Ideas for Schools

Step 4: Set Up Paid Access or Voting

There are two common ways to monetise a virtual talent show:

Option 1: Paid Viewing Access

Parents, family, and friends pay a small fee to watch the performances online.

Option 2: Paid Voting

Viewers purchase votes to support their favourite performers, increasing engagement and fundraising potential.

Many schools combine both methods for maximum impact.

Step 5: Promote Beyond the School Community

Virtual talent shows are not limited by geography. Encourage families to share the event with:

• Extended family members

• Friends

• Local community supporters

This external reach often makes the difference between an average fundraiser and an exceptional one.

This principle is also what makes Celebration Pages so powerful for year-round fundraising:
School Fundraising Ideas That Run All Year

Step 6: Add Incentives and Prizes

While participation itself is motivating, incentives increase excitement.

Consider:

• Educational prizes

• Skill-building experiences

• Group prizes for classes or grades

Prize-based incentives work particularly well when combined with digital campaigns:
Win-A-Prize Fundraising Ideas for Schools

Step 7: Announce Winners and Celebrate Participation

End the campaign by:

• Announcing winners publicly

• Thanking participants and supporters

• Sharing how much was raised and what it will fund

This transparency builds trust and increases future participation.

Why Virtual Talent Shows Work So Well for Schools

Virtual talent shows succeed because they:

• Reduce administrative burden on teachers

• Eliminate venue and logistics costs

• Increase participation across age groups

• Reach supporters outside the school community

They are an ideal example of modern school fundraising done right.

Planning More Fundraisers This Year?

Virtual talent shows work best as part of a broader fundraising plan that includes:

• Back-to-School campaigns
  Back-to-School Fundraising Ideas Parents Support

• Birthday and milestone fundraising

• Prize-based competitions

To see how these fit together, start with the main guide:
School Fundraising Ideas That Actually Work