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 >
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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 >
4 ideas for handling auction donations that show up AT the event
Your auction catalog is printed. All items have attractive displays. Guests are arriving shortly. Lo and behold, a Board member/volunteer/parent arrives at registration with a last-minute donation. They'd been meaning to get this to you, but just didn't. What should you do? First, turn away as you roll your eyes. Second, consider these ideas. 1. Add the item to the live auction Here's a recent example from this past weekend. Upon arriving at the venue on Saturday night, I ... Read On >
Tips for associations running annual conference auctions
This spring I'm on the road working with three association clients holding fundraising auctions at their annual conference. Two associations are comprised of individual members (one in the insurance industry; the other in disaster recovery). The third client is an association for hospice organizations to join. Conference auctions are a different breed. They certainly aren't similar to school auctions, and they really aren't like standard nonprofit auctions, either. Let's dive deeper ... Read On >