Want to put on the best charity gala fundraiser possible? See below for some key fundraising strategies!
Charity auctions are an excellent way to raise funds for a good cause. They bring together people who are passionate about a particular cause, and offer them the opportunity to bid on valuable items and experiences. However, raising funds at a charity auction requires more than just offering attractive items for sale. Here are some of the best ways to raise funds at your charity auction.
- Silent Auction
Silent auctions are a popular fundraising method used at charity auctions. The items up for auction are displayed on tables, with a bid sheet next to each item. Attendees can walk around and view the items, then bid on the ones they like. They write their bid on the sheet, and if someone outbids them, they can choose to increase their bid. At the end of the auction, the highest bidder for each item wins.
To make your silent auction more successful, it’s essential to offer a wide range of items at various price points. For example, you can offer expensive items like vacations or jewelry, as well as more affordable items like gift cards or local experiences. This will ensure that everyone who attends the auction has the opportunity to participate.
- Live Auction
Live auctions are another popular fundraising method used at charity auctions. In a live auction, an auctioneer takes bids on each item one by one. This creates a sense of excitement and urgency, as attendees compete to win the items they want. Live auctions can generate higher bids than silent auctions, making them an excellent way to raise funds.
To make your live auction more successful, it’s important to choose the right auctioneer. Look for someone who is experienced and charismatic, with a proven track record of generating high bids. It’s also essential to offer a range of items that will appeal to different types of bidders.
- Fund-A-Need
Fund-A-Need is a fundraising method that involves asking attendees to make a direct donation to the charity instead of bidding on an item. This method can be especially effective if there is a specific cause or project that the funds will support. For example, if your charity is focused on providing clean water to communities in need, you can ask attendees to donate to this cause.
To make your Fund-A-Need campaign more successful, it’s important to have a clear and compelling message. Explain why the cause is important, and how the funds raised will make a difference. You can also offer incentives for attendees who donate a certain amount, such as recognition in the event program or a special gift.
- Raffles and Door Prizes
Raffles and door prizes are a great way to engage attendees and generate additional funds. You can sell raffle tickets and award a prize, or give away door prizes to encourage participation. For example, you can offer a prize to everyone who donates a certain amount, or hold a raffle for a valuable item.
To make your raffles and door prizes more successful, it’s important to offer attractive prizes that will motivate attendees to participate. You can also promote the prizes in advance to generate excitement and anticipation.
- Games and Activities
Incorporating fun games and activities into the event can generate additional funds. For example, you can have a wine pull, where attendees pay a set amount to draw a bottle of wine. You can also hold a silent auction for experiences, such as a round of golf with a celebrity or a dinner with a local chef.
To make your games and activities more successful, it’s important to choose activities that will appeal to your attendees. You can also promote the activities in advance to generate excitement and encourage participation.
- Sponsorships
You can ask local businesses to sponsor the event, providing funds or items to auction off. This can be a great way to involve the community and generate additional funds!
To find out more about how I can help your cause, event, gala, corporate function, panel moderation – or even ask for some advice on getting the most out of your corporate event, do get in touch with me!
Jordan Campbell is British Emcee, Host, Benefit Auctioneer & Speaker based in Atlanta, Georgia. He has hosted hundreds of events around the world, with big and small companies alike. His international experience, charisma and flair for professional presenting, makes his a much sought after on-stage presence for Corporates and Event Companies across Atlanta and the United States!
