Online auctions are a great way for you to raise money for your school, church, sports team, or other nonprofit organization. With just a little bit of planning, you can hold an exciting and successful online auction fundraiser.
Getting Started
- Decide what you want to raise money for. Be specific about how the funds will be used. People will be more eager to donate if they know exactly where their money is going.
- Set a fundraising goal. This will help you estimate how many items you need to collect for the auction. Aim high but be realistic.
- Choose an online auction platform like eBay’s Giving Works or BiddingForGood. These sites are designed specifically for nonprofit fundraising auctions.
Collecting Donations
- Make a wish list of items you’d like to feature in your auction. Dream big and get creative! Even small items can bring in decent bids.
- Send donation requests to individuals and businesses in your community. Follow up with personal asks. As the Great Gretzky said: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”
- Post on social media and spread the word. Share photos and stories of items as they come in. This builds excitement for your auction.
Promoting Your Auction
- Create event pages on social media and send email blasts. Provide a link to the auction site and key details. Use attention-grabbing graphics.
- Add countdown timers to your event pages. This creates a sense of urgency that drives bidding. This is usually provided in the auction software you choose.
- Ask supporters to share and repost your promotion posts. Word of mouth is still one of the best forms of marketing. Expand your reach!
Maximizing Bids
- Set minimum bids but don’t make them too high. You want as many people as possible to participate.
- Consider using a proxy bidding system. This allows bidders to place their maximum bid and the system will automatically bid up to that amount on their behalf as needed.
Add a “Buy It Now” price to high-value items. This gives bidders the option to purchase at a fixed price. As they say, “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”- Schedule your auction to end in the evening or on a weekend. More people will be available to monitor and place last minute bids.
- Offer combined shipping discounts. This encourages bidders to win multiple items.
Closing the Auction
- Send winning bidders payment instructions right away while your auction is fresh in their minds. Provide a deadline to submit payment.
- Follow up with non-payers after a few days. Consider relisting their item or offering it to the next highest bidder.
- Send thank you notes to donors and winning bidders. Show your appreciation for their support. A little gratitude goes a long way.
- Calculate your total profits. Congratulate your team on a job well done! Consider breaking out the sparkling cider to celebrate like the champions you are.
With some creativity and hard work, your online auction can be a huge success. Bring your community together for a great cause while raising money to help your organization thrive. The sky is the limit when people come together for the greater good!
See Also: Katydids Candy Fundraiser
FAQ
What items should I collect for the auction?
Aim for a mix of big-ticket items like vacations and electronics that will attract bidders, along with lower-priced crafts, gift cards, event tickets, and other items to appeal to bargain hunters. Get creative – even small homemade items or services can pull in good bids if they are unique and fun.
How do I collect items from local businesses?
Reach out through email, phone calls, and in-person requests. Clearly explain how their donation will help your cause. Be prepared to explain how you will promote their business through the auction. Offer advertising and receipts for tax deductions. Follow up persistently but politely.
What is a good length of time to run the auction?
Typically 5-10 days is ideal. This gives people enough time to browse, share and get excited about items, without losing momentum. Avoid holidays or other busy times when bidders may be distracted.
Should I use a minimum bid and what price?
Minimum bids are generally a good idea so bidding starts at a reasonable level. Price them low enough to encourage interest, but high enough to make a decent profit. Consider the item’s value when setting the minimum.
What is the best way to promote our auction?
Use social media marketing including posts, targeted ads and creating events. Email supporters, community groups and local media. Post flyers and send press releases. Ask supporters to spread the word to maximize exposure.
How do I collect payment from winners?
Provide payment instructions and a deadline right after auction ends when it’s fresh in their minds. Follow up with non-payers after a few days. Accept various payment methods – PayPal, credit cards, checks, etc.
[testimonial_view id=25]
