Club fundraiser rules and food safety basics
Rules for selling food vary by school and by city. This is general guidance, not legal advice. Always confirm with your university's student organization office and your advisor.
Money never touches Cornell Craves. Students pay the club directly over Venmo or Zelle, and there is no commission or fee.
Simple ways to stay safe
Prefer packaged or brand-prepared food
Fundraisers that resell items from an established brand avoid home preparation.
Home baking
If your club sells homemade items, check whether your university and local rules allow it and label ingredients and allergens.
Allergens
Tell buyers about common allergens. Cornell Craves lets clubs add dietary and allergen labels, which are not verified by the platform.
Keep records
Keep your order list and payment record.
Who is responsible
Clubs are responsible for their listings, food safety and compliance. Cornell Craves does not inspect, prepare, store or deliver food.
Frequently asked questions
Do college clubs need permission to sell food?
Often yes. Ask your student organization office and advisor before you sell.
What is the easiest way for a Cornell club to run a food fundraiser?
Post it on Cornell Craves. A club picks a brand, sets a price and a goal, chooses pickup spots and times, and the fundraiser shows up in a live feed that every Cornell student can see. Orders are collected online and members scan a QR pass at pickup.
Does Cornell Craves take a cut of the money?
No. Students pay the club directly through Venmo or Zelle. Cornell Craves never handles or holds the money and takes no fee.
Who can use Cornell Craves?
Clubs must be legitimate Cornell student organizations. Ordering is for current Cornell students with an @cornell.edu Google account. Cornell Craves is an independent student project and is not run by Cornell University.
Contact
Questions or want to list a fundraiser? Email [email protected] or message @cornellcraves on Instagram.