In recent years, the prevailing advice I seem to catch online is that nonprofits should put more "experiences" into their auction line-up. Fundraising auction procurement angled towards "experiences" will presumably garner the big bucks. To be clear, we're not talking about experiences like a colonoscopy or dental work. It's more like a trip with a wine tasting. Or a hot air balloon ride. But here's my take: I don't believe that telling a committee member to "go get some experiences ... Read On >
Procurement
Silent auction procurement idea: Buy Nothing
Silent auction procurement is more difficult this year, but I’ve got a tip for you. Your neighbors have items your guests will buy, and they are giving them away. Buy Nothing sites facilitate that generosity. Some of those items are silent auction-worthy. To give you a flavor of the site, here are a few items I saw listed in just the last few days. Watch the video to learn more about this resource. https://youtu.be/1fvn746KjDU ... Read On >
What to do NOW, to make 2022 auction procurement easier
I share this auction procurement tip nearly every year in November or December. This is the season when we'll be gathering with friends and family, catching up on the last year (or maybe catching up on the last two years, given that many didn't get together in 2020). As you learn about what others have been pursuing in the way of interests, hobbies, or purchases, make note of what might be worthwhile to inquire about later, when it's time to ramp up your acquisition efforts. * A ... Read On >
What to sell at your association gala auction
If you work for an association, your live auction will have a few different items in it than a standard nonprofit auction. In this video, I give examples for four types of associations I've supported and examples of auction items to sell. Industry trade associations for businesses Associations with regional chapters or affiliations Associations for professionals to join, such as structural engineers or cosmetology Associations for individuals interested in a particular hobby, ... Read On >
My prediction: This COVID19-style donation is here to stay
This past weekend I worked two galas -- one was a 2-screen solution for a school, and the other was a Zoom meeting-style gala for a conservation nonprofit. The nonprofit had some star power. Two of the attendees are legitimate Hollywood celebrities whom many would recognize if not by name, then by face. They and some of their celebrity friends donated virtual activities to the auction. These items raised several thousand dollars for the nonprofit. But I have to admit - it was a little ... Read On >