{"id":7045104,"date":"2026-08-23T18:04:41","date_gmt":"2026-08-23T18:04:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/peraltafinancing.com\/uncategorized\/3-things-you-may-not-know-about-fundraising-games-in-minnesota-do-good-events\/"},"modified":"2026-08-23T18:04:41","modified_gmt":"2026-08-23T18:04:41","slug":"3-things-you-may-not-know-about-fundraising-games-in-minnesota-do-good-events","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=7045104","title":{"rendered":"3 Things You May Not Know About Fundraising Games in Minnesota Do Good Events"},"content":{"rendered":"


\n<\/p>\n

\n

At Do Good Events, many of our nonprofit clients incorporate fundraising games at their events. In Minnesota, there are a lot of rules and regulations to ensure these games are performed legally. So if you\u2019re planning a nonprofit fundraising event<\/a> in Minnesota and thinking about adding a game element such as a raffle, wine pull, mystery bags, or something creative, below is a brief overview to inform you on the steps you may or may not have to take to follow Minnesota state gambling laws.<\/p>\n

Before we dive into the details, one super helpful tool is the Start Simple Guide<\/a> that the The Minnesota Gambling Control Board (MGCB)<\/a> recently released. It clarifies what nonprofits need to know before having fundraising games at their event. It\u2019s a great resource because it\u2019s straightforward and helps organizations make informed decisions.<\/p>\n

Now, here are three things to keep in mind when planning your next fundraising event:<\/p>\n

1. If It Has Consideration, Chance, and a Prize\u2026It\u2019s Gambling<\/strong><\/h2>\n

In Minnesota, gambling has three key elements:<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Consideration \u2013 Someone gives something of value (money, time, ticket purchase, etc.)<\/li>\n
  2. Chance \u2013 The outcome is based on luck, not skill<\/li>\n
  3. Prize \u2013 There is something of value to win<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    If your activity includes all three, it\u2019s considered gambling \u2014 and it\u2019s regulated. Important note: <\/em>Auctions<\/em><\/a> are not gambling because they\u2019re based on bidding, not chance.<\/em><\/p>\n

    Charitable gambling (also called lawful gambling) is the legal category where proceeds, after prizes, expenses and taxes, must support a charitable cause.\u00a0<\/p>\n

    \"\"
    Photographer: Ben Brewer<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    2. You May Not Need a Permit<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    Here\u2019s where the Start Simple Guide<\/a> becomes especially helpful. If the total value of prizes awarded at your event is under $1,500, you may not need a state permit from the Minnesota Gambling Control Board. Yay!<\/p>\n

    For many one-night fundraising events, keeping prize values lower can allow you to \u201cstart simple\u201d without the added paperwork and reporting requirements. If you accept a lower prize value threshold, you may not be required to register with the MGCB at all.<\/p>\n

    That said, city regulations may still apply. Always check both state and local requirements before finalizing your plans. The city where your event is taking place and the city where your business is located.<\/p>\n

    \"\"
    Photographer: Angelic Jewel Photography<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    3. Not Every Game Is Approved<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    Just because you\u2019ve seen a fundraising game at another nonprofit fundraiser, it does not mean it\u2019s automatically compliant in Minnesota.<\/p>\n

    The MGCB has specific categories of approved lawful gambling activities, including:<\/p>\n