Auction Best Practices - Fundraising Insights & Trends

Understanding the Basics of Chinese Auctions

Learn how a Chinese (chance) auction works: attendees buy tickets, drop them next to items they want, and winners are drawn at random. It’s a fun, accessible format for nonprofits to raise funds without aggressive bidding.

How To

How to Run a Silent Auction: Your Ultimate Guide

Learn the full silent auction process: recruit volunteers, source items, pick a venue or platform, structure bid sheets and rules, orchestrate the bidding and closing, then announce winners and thank supporters — all to maximize fundraising success.

Guides

Your Guide to Online Charity Auctions

This guide shows how nonprofits can host auctions online: choose a platform with mobile bidding & secure payments, promote broadly, and analyze results to improve revenue.

Auction Best Practices

60 Silent Auction Item Ideas

Explore 60 curated silent-auction item ideas—from spa days and cooking classes to gadgets and getaways—that help nonprofits offer something for everyone, boost engagement, and reduce unsold items.

FAQ

Why There’s No Such Thing as a Free Auction Site

While “free” auction platforms attract fundraisers, hidden costs always exist—platform tipping, payment processing, ads, or premium features. A truly free, quality auction site doesn’t exist.

FAQ

How Much Does Live Auction Software Cost?

Live auction software costs depend on features like real-time bidding, payments, analytics, and support. Typical pricing models are subscription or per-event licensing—expect basic plans from ~$297/event plus processing and platform fees.

FAQ

What to Do with Leftover Silent Auction Items

Leftover auction items don’t have to go to waste. You can repackage them, host a bonus online auction, offer “buy now” deals, repurpose them for internal use, or donate them — and use these moves to deepen relationships and clean up inventory.

Auction Best Practices

Tips for Effectively Displaying Auction Items

Display your auction items to catch attention: use good lighting, themed groupings, clear labels, and visual storytelling. Place high-value pieces in high-traffic spots and protect them while keeping them visible.

How To

How to Win a Silent Auction: Tips for Guests & Hosts

To win, research item value, set a strict budget, bid odd amounts, monitor quietly, and time a final snipe just before closing. Leverage tech (apps/alerts) and stay strategic—not emotional.