44 Fundraising auction ideas to maximize bids & donations

The secret? It’s all about choosing the right items for the right audience. Whether you’re planning a live auction with an energetic crowd or a silent auction that lets people bid from their phones, the goal is the same: offer items that get people excited to give.

In this guide, we’re breaking down the continuously drive bidding auction items, from high-ticket experiences to budget-friendly options that still make an impact. We’ll also cover how to get sponsors, how to bundle items for bigger bids, and how to promote your event for maximum attention.

Best fundraiser auction item ideas for any budget

Not every nonprofit has access to celebrity meet-and-greets or luxury vacations, but that doesn’t mean you can’t run a successful auction. The key is matching your items to your audience and offering a mix of high-value experiences, popular crowd-pleasers, and budget-friendly options that still feel special.

Some bidders want exclusivity—things they can’t just buy in a store. Others love experiences they can enjoy with family and friends. And sometimes, it’s the simple, thoughtful items that get the most love. No matter your budget, there’s something for everyone.

High-value live auction items (big-ticket items)

These are the items that get people talking. They create excitement, drive up bids, and often bring in the biggest donations of the night. Live auctions work best with a little competition, so the goal is to offer things that people are willing to fight for.

1. Season tickets

Sports fans will pay top dollar for a full season of games, especially if the seats are good. Football, basketball, baseball, or even local minor league teams—there’s always a market for sports tickets. If you can secure VIP seating, parking passes, or access to a special club area, the value jumps even higher.

How to get it: Many teams and venues donate tickets to nonprofits. Reach out to local sports teams, stadiums, or season ticket holders who might be willing to contribute.

2. Luxury travel packages

Travel experiences always perform well in auctions because people love vacations but don’t always love planning them. The best packages include:

• All-inclusive resorts – Food, drinks, and entertainment all covered.
• Private vacation homes – A weekend at a ski lodge, a beachfront condo, or a countryside retreat.
• Adventure experiences – African safaris, guided hiking tours, or luxury train rides.

How to get it: Some travel companies work with nonprofits to offer discounted or donated packages. You can also ask board members or supporters if they have vacation homes they’d be willing to donate for a weekend.

3. Signed memorabilia

Autographed items attract both collectors and fans. The right piece can lead to a bidding war, especially if it’s from a beloved local athlete, musician, or public figure. Popular items include:

• Signed jerseys, helmets, or balls from pro athletes.
• Autographed guitars, albums, or posters from musicians.
• Movie or TV props signed by the cast.

How to get it: Reach out to sports teams, music venues, and fan clubs. Many athletes and celebrities donate memorabilia to charity auctions, especially if they have a personal connection to the cause.

4. Private dining experience

A meal isn’t just about the food—it’s about the experience. A multi-course meal cooked by a well-known chef, a private tasting at a high-end restaurant, or an intimate dinner party with wine pairings can feel like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

How to get it: Partner with a local chef, restaurant, or winery. Many love the exposure and may donate their time or offer a discount.

5. Weekend getaway

Even a short trip can feel like a luxury. A two-night stay at a beach house, mountain cabin, or vineyard retreat is always a hit—especially if it’s bundled with extras like a restaurant gift card or a fun activity.

How to get it: Ask local hotels, Airbnb hosts, or vacation property owners if they’d be willing to donate or discount a stay.

6. Celebrity meet-and-greet

For the right audience, meeting a well-known figure can be priceless. Whether it’s a sports star, actor, musician, or author, these experiences create lasting memories.

How to get it: If your nonprofit has supporters with connections to public figures, now’s the time to reach out. Local TV personalities, best-selling authors, and influencers may also be willing to participate.

7. Private concert or backstage passes

Music lovers will bid high for VIP concert experiences, whether it’s a private acoustic set, backstage meet-and-greet, or front-row seats at a big event.

How to get it: Reach out to local venues, radio stations, or the artist’s management for donation opportunities. Many musicians support charitable causes.

8. Behind-the-scenes experiences

Some of the best auction items aren’t things—they’re experiences. Exclusive access to TV studios, stadiums, theaters, or even government buildings can be a huge draw.

Examples include:

• A VIP tour of a major stadium or music venue.
• A ride-along with first responders (firefighters, police, paramedics).
• A day at a news station, meeting anchors and seeing live broadcasts.

How to get it: Reach out to businesses, news stations, or government offices that might offer these experiences for a good cause.

9. Hot air balloon ride

There’s something magical about floating high above the ground in a hot air balloon. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that many people have on their bucket lists.

How to get it: Contact local balloon tour companies—many are open to donating or offering a discount for charity events.

10. Naming rights for a year

Want to get creative? Let the highest bidder name something for a year—a classroom, an office, even the company coffee machine. This works well for schools, libraries, and community organizations.

How to get it: Offer naming rights for anything fun or meaningful within your nonprofit.

11. Golf or spa package

Exclusive golf outings at private country clubs and spa days at luxury resorts attract high-end bidders looking for relaxation.

How to get it: Many golf courses and spas donate packages to nonprofits in exchange for promotion.

12. Custom artwork or commissioned piece

A personalized painting, sculpture, or digital artwork is a meaningful auction item—especially if the artist has a strong local following.

How to get it: Partner with a well-known local artist who is open to creating a custom piece for the winning bidder.

13. Wine or whiskey tasting experience

A private wine or whiskey tasting hosted by a sommelier can be a unique, high-end auction item, especially when paired with a beautiful venue.

How to get it: Work with local wineries, distilleries, or high-end restaurants to create an exclusive tasting experience.

Mid-range charity auction item ideas

Not every auction item needs to be a high-ticket experience. Mid-range items are affordable to source but still exciting enough to spark bidding wars. These items work well in both live and silent auctions, giving donors a mix of practical and fun options.

14. Brewery or winery tour

A behind-the-scenes look at how craft beer or wine is made, often including tastings and a guided tour. Perfect for groups, couples, or anyone who enjoys learning about the brewing or winemaking process.

How to get it: Reach out to local breweries or wineries—many offer donation packages in exchange for promotion.

15. Private museum tour

A curator-led, after-hours tour of a local museum, offering exclusive access to exhibits and insider knowledge. Some museums even allow guests to interact with rare artifacts.

How to get it: Contact local museums or historical sites to request a special tour donation.

16. VIP theater experience

Premium seats to a popular show, sometimes with a backstage meet-and-greet with the cast. Theater lovers will pay extra for the chance to see a production up close.

How to get it: Partner with local theaters or performing arts organizations—many set aside VIP packages for charity events.

17. Behind-the-scenes restaurant experience

A unique opportunity for food lovers to step inside a professional kitchen, watch a chef in action, and even help prepare a dish before sitting down for a meal.

How to get it: Work with high-end local restaurants to create an exclusive experience.

18. Zip-lining or ropes course

An exciting outdoor activity that offers an adrenaline rush while taking in scenic views. Some locations even offer night zip-lining for an extra thrill.

How to get it: Contact local adventure parks and outdoor experience companies to request a donation or discount.

19. Kayaking or paddleboarding rental

A relaxing way to explore local waterways, perfect for beginners or experienced paddlers looking for a fun outing. Rentals can be for a few hours or a full day.

How to get it: Reach out to local rental shops, marinas, or outdoor recreation businesses that might be willing to donate passes.

20. Guided hiking or camping trip

An expert-led outdoor adventure that can include scenic trails, wildlife spotting, and even an overnight camping experience with meals and gear provided.

How to get it: Work with local tour guides, park services, or outdoor adventure companies to secure a donation or discount.

21. Fishing charter

A half-day or full-day guided fishing trip, complete with gear, expert guidance, and the chance to reel in something big.

How to get it: Reach out to local fishing guides, charter companies, or marinas—many offer donation opportunities for nonprofits.

22. Private chef for a night

A luxury dining experience where a professional chef prepares a gourmet meal in the winner’s home. A great option for special occasions or intimate gatherings.

How to get it: Partner with local chefs, caterers, or high-end restaurants to arrange a private dining experience.

23. Cooking class

A hands-on experience with a professional chef, teaching valuable cooking skills in a fun and interactive setting. Topics can range from pasta-making to gourmet desserts.

How to get it: Many culinary schools, restaurants, and private chefs offer cooking classes and may be willing to donate or discount a session.

24. Local restaurant gift cards

A collection of gift cards to popular local restaurants, allowing the winner to explore different dining spots in their area.

How to get it: Many restaurants donate gift cards to charities in exchange for promotional visibility. Reach out to restaurant owners and managers.

25. Private yoga or meditation session

A customized one-on-one session designed to promote relaxation, stress relief, and mindfulness.

How to get it: Contact local yoga instructors or wellness studios to see if they’ll donate a session.

26. Boutique fitness class pass

A package of sessions at a high-end fitness studio (like spin, boxing, or Pilates) that lets the winner try a new workout routine.

How to get it: Reach out to local gyms and fitness studios—many offer donation opportunities.

27. Massage and spa day

A luxury spa treatment package that could include massages, facials, or other pampering services. Always a popular auction item.

How to get it: Contact local spas and wellness centers to request a donation.

28. Personal training package

A set of sessions with a certified trainer, often paired with gym membership perks.

How to get it: Many personal trainers and gyms offer promotional packages for fundraisers.

29. Home cleaning service

A practical and highly desirable auction item, offering a few sessions from a professional cleaning company.

How to get it: Reach out to local cleaning services that want exposure to potential new clients.

30. Landscaping package

A full lawn care and garden design service, perfect for homeowners looking to refresh their outdoor space.

How to get it: Many landscaping businesses are open to donating services in exchange for promotion.

31. Pet grooming or boarding

A gift certificate for pet grooming, overnight boarding, or pet spa treatments, making it a great option for animal lovers.

How to get it: Contact local pet groomers, pet hotels, or veterinary offices to request a donation.

32. Interior design consultation

A session with a professional designer offering expert advice on furniture placement, color schemes, or home decor upgrades.

How to get it: Reach out to local interior designers who want to showcase their services.

Budget-friendly charity auction items

Not every donor is looking for a luxury vacation or high-end experience. Some bidders prefer small, meaningful, or practical items that fit within their budget. These auction items are easy to source, appeal to a broad audience, and can still drive competitive bidding—especially when they’re creative or unique.

33. Best pizza in town experience

A gift card to the city’s most famous pizza spot or a "Pizza for a Year" package, offering a free pizza each month. Some restaurants even offer a behind-the-scenes pizza-making experience with their head chef.

How to get it: Contact popular local pizzerias and ask if they’d be willing to donate a gift card or an exclusive experience. Many will say yes for the exposure.

34. Gift basket

Gift baskets are auction staples because they’re easy to put together and can fit any theme. Popular options include:

• Coffee lover’s basket – High-end beans, mugs, syrups, and a French press.
• Spa relaxation basket – Bath bombs, candles, face masks, and luxury lotions.
• Movie night basket – Popcorn, gourmet snacks, classic DVDs, and theater gift cards.
• Local flavors basket – Specialty foods, sauces, and treats from small businesses in your area.

How to get it: Work with local shops, specialty food stores, or national retailers to donate items. You can also purchase smaller items and bundle them together for a polished look.

35. Haircut or styling session

A session with a top-rated stylist at a well-known salon. Perfect for bidders who want a fresh look or a professional touch-up.

How to get it: Contact local salons and hairstylists—many are happy to donate a session for the marketing exposure.

36. Photography package

A session with a professional photographer for headshots, engagement photos, or family portraits. Some photographers offer mini-sessions, which are shorter but still valuable.

How to get it: Contact local photographers—many are willing to donate a session to attract new clients.

37. Car detailing service

A professional deep clean inside and out, making the winner’s car look like new.

How to get it: Reach out to local car detailing businesses, which often donate services to attract new customers.

38. Event tickets

Concerts, theater performances, sporting events, and festivals all make for exciting auction items. Even general admission tickets to theme parks, escape rooms, or museums can be a big draw.

How to get it: Check with local entertainment venues, sports teams, and cultural institutions. Many have community donation programs for nonprofits.

39. Hot air balloon ride

A once-in-a-lifetime experience at an affordable price. Hot air balloon rides are often more accessible than people think, making them a great mid-range auction item with high perceived value.

How to get it: Reach out to local hot air balloon companies, many of which have special packages for charity events.

40. Name a menu item at a local restaurant

Restaurants love this idea because it gets people talking. The winning bidder gets to name a sandwich, cocktail, or dessert at a popular eatery, often with a custom sign or menu feature.

How to get it: Ask local restaurants if they’d be open to a short-term menu addition for charity. Many love the marketing opportunity.

41. Subscription box service

A pre-paid three- or six-month subscription to a popular box service, such as:

• Snack boxes featuring international treats.
• Book clubs that deliver a new read each month.
• Pet toy and treat boxes for dog and cat lovers.

How to get it: Some companies offer nonprofit discounts or donation programs. You can also purchase a short-term subscription and package it as an auction item.

42. Houseplant starter kit

A collection of easy-to-care-for plants, decorative pots, and plant care accessories. Perfect for home decor lovers and beginner plant parents.

How to get it: Work with local garden centers or plant shops to source supplies.

43. Ice cream for a year

A gift card covering a scoop of ice cream every month for a year at a local shop.

How to get it: Contact popular ice cream parlors—many are happy to participate in fundraising events.

44. Pet portrait session

A professional photography session for a pet, capturing high-quality images of a beloved furry friend. Some artists also offer custom pet paintings.

How to get it: Partner with pet photographers or local artists specializing in animal portraits.

How to reach out to local businesses and corporate sponsors

Many of the best auction items don’t come from your budget—they come from businesses willing to donate. Local shops, restaurants, and corporations often support nonprofit fundraisers because it gives them exposure and strengthens their community ties. But reaching out the right way makes all the difference. Here’s how to secure valuable auction donations without wasting time on dead ends.

Build a targeted sponsorship list

Instead of cold-calling random businesses, start with those that are aligned with your mission or have supported local causes before.

Good places to start:

• Businesses that have donated to other local fundraisers.
• Companies whose services match your audience (ex: gyms for fitness fundraisers).
• Existing nonprofit partners or board members' connections.

How to do it: Create a list of businesses you want to approach. If possible, find a direct contact—donation requests work best when sent to the right person (owner, marketing director, or community outreach manager).

Offer a clear benefit for the business

Businesses don’t donate just to be nice—they do it because it helps them, too. Show them how supporting your auction benefits their brand.

Highlight things like:

• Brand exposure – Their logo will be displayed at the event or in promotional materials.
• Customer engagement – Their business will be introduced to new potential customers.
• Community goodwill – Supporting a local cause builds a positive reputation.

How to do it: When you reach out, explain why their donation helps them—not just you. A simple message like, “We expect 300+ attendees, and we’d love to feature your business in front of this engaged audience,” makes the request more compelling.

Make donation requests personal

Generic emails get ignored. A personalized request shows that you’ve done your research and aren’t just spamming every business in town.

How to do it:

• Address the recipient by name.
• Mention something specific about their business.
• Keep it short, clear, and easy to respond to.

Example:

"Hi [Name],

I love how [Business Name] supports local causes, and I wanted to reach out about a great opportunity. We’re hosting a charity auction on [Date] to raise funds for [Cause], and we’d love to feature a donation from your business. With [X] attendees, this would be a great way to introduce your brand to new customers while making an impact. Would you be open to discussing this?"

Give them an easy way to say yes

Many businesses ignore donation requests simply because it’s too much effort to figure out what to give. If you suggest an item, it’s easier for them to say yes.

How to do it: Instead of asking, “Would you like to donate?” ask, “Would you be open to donating a $50 gift card or a spa package for our silent auction?” Giving a specific option makes it easier for them to agree.

Follow up (politely)

Business owners get busy, and sometimes they need a reminder. If you don’t hear back within a week, follow up once with a polite message.

Example:
"Hi [Name], I wanted to follow up on my last message about our charity auction. We’d love to feature [Business Name] and were wondering if you’d be open to donating a gift card or another item of your choice. Let me know if you have any questions!"

Show appreciation and recognition

Once a business donates, make sure they feel valued. A thank-you message goes a long way, and public recognition makes them more likely to donate again.

Ways to show appreciation:

• Feature them on your website, social media, or event materials.
• Give them a shoutout at the auction and mention their donation.
• Send a personalized thank-you note after the event.

How to do it: Even a simple Instagram post tagging their business with a thank-you message can make them feel recognized.

How to create the perfect auction basket idea

Auction baskets are always popular because they bundle multiple smaller items into a themed package that feels valuable and exciting. The best baskets aren’t just a random mix of products—they tell a story, match a specific interest, and make the winner feel like they’re getting a curated experience.

Choose a theme that excites bidders

A well-designed auction basket should have a clear theme that appeals to a wide audience. The more specific and thoughtful the theme, the more likely it is to attract multiple bidders.

Some winning themes include:

• Coffee lover’s basket – High-end coffee beans, a French press, flavored syrups, and a travel mug.
• Self-care spa basket – Bath bombs, essential oils, face masks, candles, and a plush robe.
• Foodie’s dream basket – Gourmet ingredients, high-quality olive oil, artisan cheese, and a cookbook.
• Outdoor adventure basket – Hiking gear, water bottles, a park pass, and an energy bar assortment.

Mix big-ticket and complementary items

A great auction basket includes at least one standout item that grabs attention, along with smaller supporting pieces to round it out.

For example:

• A spa basket is more valuable with a gift card for a massage or facial alongside candles and skincare products.
• A wine & cheese basket is even better with a vineyard tour pass or a wine tasting gift certificate.
• A family game night basket is more fun with a gift card for pizza delivery included.

Add a local or personal touch

Baskets feel more unique when they include locally sourced or handmade items. Whether it’s a jar of local honey, a custom piece of artwork, or a product from a well-known small business, these additions make the basket stand out.

Consider reaching out to:

• Local artisans and craft stores for handmade goods.
• Farmers’ markets and specialty food shops for unique treats.
• Popular small businesses that want to showcase their products.

Make the presentation polished and professional

A beautifully packaged basket looks more valuable and will attract higher bids. Use a sturdy container, arrange the items neatly, and wrap everything in clear cellophane with a decorative bow. If a basket isn’t the right fit, consider using:

• A reusable tote bag for a farmer’s market or eco-friendly basket.
• A stylish wooden crate for a wine and cheese basket.
• A picnic basket for a romantic date night basket.

Include a detailed description

At an auction, people may not be able to pick up and examine each basket closely. A clear, well-written description helps them understand what’s inside and why it’s valuable.

Make sure to:

• List every item included.
• Highlight the total estimated value.
• Mention any gift cards or exclusive experiences inside.

Best practices for hosting a live auction vs. silent auction

Live and silent auctions are both great fundraising tools, but they work in very different ways. A live auction creates excitement and competition, while a silent auction gives bidders more flexibility and privacy. Choosing the right format—or using a combination of both—can help you raise more money and engage more supporters.

How to maximize bids in a live auction

Live auctions work best when there’s high energy and a sense of urgency. The key is to create a fun, competitive environment that keeps people engaged and excited to bid.

• Hire a professional auctioneer – An experienced auctioneer knows how to build momentum, encourage bidding wars, and keep the crowd entertained.
• Use a hype person – A well-known community figure or an enthusiastic volunteer can warm up the crowd before bidding starts.
• Start with a strong opening bid – Too low, and the item loses perceived value. Too high, and people might not jump in. A good rule of thumb is 30-50% of the item’s retail value.
• Leverage bidder competition – Call out the names of competing bidders to encourage friendly rivalry: “Looks like Sarah wants this spa package—anyone else going to take it from her?”
• Use emotional appeal – Remind bidders why they’re there. Stories about your nonprofit’s impact can encourage higher giving.

Why silent auctions drive more participation

Silent auctions work well because they give people more time to bid and allow them to participate without pressure. They’re especially useful if you have a large crowd or an event where bidding quietly fits the atmosphere better.

• Make bidding easy with mobile technology – Many silent auctions now use mobile bidding apps that let guests place and track bids from their phones.
• Display items clearly – Make sure auction items are well-lit, neatly arranged, and have clear descriptions. If an item includes an experience (like a spa day or tickets), use photos or a framed printout to showcase it.
• Use a "Buy It Now" option – Some bidders don’t want to risk losing an item. Offering a premium price for an instant win can help maximize fundraising.
• Create time-based urgency – A countdown clock or last-minute announcements like “Bidding closes in five minutes!” can encourage final bids.
• Send bid alerts – If you’re using an app, enable notifications that alert bidders when they’ve been outbid. This keeps people engaged until the last second.

Which auction format is best?

It depends on your audience and event setup. Some fundraisers combine both live and silent auctions to get the best of both worlds.

Live auction is best for:

• High-value, one-of-a-kind items (vacations, signed memorabilia, VIP experiences).
• Engaged crowds that enjoy competitive bidding.
• Events with a strong emcee or auctioneer to drive excitement.

Silent auction is best for:

• Events with large or mixed audiences where not everyone may participate in live bidding.
• A wide variety of mid-range and budget-friendly items.
• Fundraisers that span several hours or days, allowing for extended bidding.

How to promote your auction for maximum engagement

A great auction is only successful if people know about it and show up ready to bid. Strong promotion ensures that your event reaches the right audience, builds excitement, and maximizes participation. The key is to start early, use multiple channels, and create a sense of urgency as the event gets closer.

Engaging potential bidders through social media and email

Social media and email are two of the most effective ways to spread the word about your auction and keep potential bidders engaged.

• Post teaser images of auction items – High-quality photos and short descriptions help generate excitement. Feature one or two items per post leading up to the event.
• Use video sneak peeks – A short video showcasing top auction items, behind-the-scenes preparations, or a personal message from your team can build anticipation.
• Create an event page – A Facebook event or landing page on your website gives people a place to find all the details and invite friends.
• Send countdown emails – A well-timed email series can drive registrations and bids. Start with a "Save the Date" email, then follow up with item highlights, reminders, and a last-minute push.
• Encourage supporters to share – Ask board members, volunteers, and past donors to spread the word by sharing your posts and inviting their networks.

Optimizing your event website for fundraising success

A dedicated auction website or landing page gives bidders a central place to browse items, register, and place bids if you’re using online or mobile bidding.

• Make it mobile-friendly – Many supporters will check auction details from their phones, so the site should be easy to navigate on any device.
• Include clear registration and bidding instructions – If your auction requires pre-registration or uses a mobile bidding platform, guide users through the process.
• Feature high-value items prominently – Highlighting top items on the homepage or in a pinned post keeps them front and center.
• Add an FAQ section – Common questions like "How do I place a bid?" or "What payment methods are accepted?" should be easy to find.

Leveraging partnerships and community support

Local businesses, sponsors, and community influencers can help spread the word to their own audiences.

• Ask sponsors to promote your auction – If businesses have donated items, they may be willing to feature your event in their newsletters or social media.
• Partner with local media – A mention in a newspaper, radio station, or community blog can help reach more potential bidders.
• Get local influencers involved – Community leaders, social media influencers, or well-known figures in your cause’s space can help amplify your message.

Using urgency and exclusivity to drive participation

People are more likely to act when they feel a sense of urgency or fear of missing out.

• Offer early bird incentives – A special raffle entry or bonus prize for those who register early can increase early sign-ups.
• Use countdown timers – Regular reminders like "Only three days left to register!" help create urgency.
• Highlight limited-time or exclusive items – If an auction item is one-of-a-kind or has limited availability, emphasize that in your promotions.

Harness technology for fundraising success

Technology can make fundraising auctions more efficient, engaging, and profitable. Mobile bidding allows supporters to participate from anywhere, real-time updates keep bidders engaged, and automated donor communications simplify outreach before, during, and after the event.

The right tools also make it easy to track performance, process payments smoothly, and offer instant donation options for those who want to give beyond bidding.

Harness provides seamless fundraising solutions to help nonprofits maximize their auction success with less effort. By leveraging technology, you can reach more donors, raise more money, and create an auction experience that keeps supporters coming back.

But we don’t just hand you tools — our fundraising experts will work alongside you to strategize, build, and execute your auction, whether it’s an in-person event or a fully online auction site. From item selection and donor engagement tactics to post-auction follow-ups, we help you every step of the way.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best fundraiser auction items for high-value bids?

Luxury travel packages, signed memorabilia, private dining experiences, and VIP event tickets tend to bring in the highest bids. Items that offer exclusivity or a once-in-a-lifetime experience usually perform best.

How do I get businesses to donate auction items?

Reach out to local businesses with a clear, personalized request that highlights the benefits of donating. Offer brand exposure, community goodwill, and customer engagement in return. Make it easy by suggesting specific donation ideas.

What are some good budget-friendly auction items?

Gift baskets, event tickets, restaurant gift cards, photography sessions, and houseplant kits are all affordable yet popular auction items. These types of packages appeal to a wide range of bidders.

How can I increase engagement in a silent auction?

Use mobile bidding technology, display items clearly with compelling descriptions, and send outbid notifications to keep bidders involved. Creating urgency with countdowns or “Buy It Now” options can also help boost participation.

What is the difference between a live auction and a silent auction?

A live auction is fast-paced and competitive, usually featuring high-value items with an auctioneer leading the bidding. Silent auctions allow guests to bid privately over a longer period, either on paper or through a mobile bidding platform.

How can I make my auction stand out?

Offer unique items, promote the event early, use storytelling to connect bidders with your cause, and create a seamless bidding experience through technology. A mix of high-ticket and affordable items ensures there’s something for everyone.

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