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Category: Fundraising Ideas

How to Choose Auction Items for Fundraising Campaigns

Posted on by Ella Jacques

Charity auctions are a creative and effective way to raise funds for a worthy cause, but putting together a charity auction can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing the right auction items. 

The items offered during an auction can be the determining factor in the success or failure of your campaign. Choosing the perfect items encourages attendees to bid generously and helps to maximise the amount raised. In this article, we’ll share some tips for selecting the best auction items that will attract bidders and generate funds for your cause.

Why is there pressure to choose the right auction items?

Every event, whether online or in-person, aims to raise as much money as possible. While people love participating in an auction, the right items must be available for everyone taking part in order to hit your fundraising goals.

This means you need to know your audience very well. Consider the people attending your charity auction and what kind of items would appeal to them. Are they wealthy, conservative, liberal, young, old, or a mix of all the above? Knowing your audience and their interests will help you create a list of potential items that will be most in demand. 

Factors such as price point, location, and availability of the item will all impact who is bidding for it. Would they prefer high-end luxury items like vacations and jewellery, or would they be more interested in sports memorabilia and other collectables? Knowing what your audience is interested in helps you narrow down your options and relieves the pressure of getting things right. You’re sure to get better results from your auction.

How many auction items should you include?

You should ensure that the number of items reflects your audience so that no time or money is wasted in raising money.

One of the most effective ways to make your charity auction more attractive is by offering unique items with a mix of everyday surprises. Some people will love the idea of bidding on a jet-setting experience, while others may just want dinner at a local restaurant.

The price range of your auction items is also important. You should offer items at different prices so everyone in the audience has something to bid on. Have a mix of high-end and affordable items to cater to all budgets. Remember that the price range of your items should also align with what your audience can afford. Consider the average income of the people attending your auction and offer items that fall into that range.

What data should be used to help you select the best items? 

One of the benefits of the Givergy package is that data supports your campaigns. This is because we believe effective campaign strategies should show in the numbers. 

Anything from your social media analytics to past-event information should be used to choose the best items. This might be more complex if you have never run an auction, but it’s not impossible. Instead, take a pragmatic approach to the selection, and you will be good to go!

This will also help you choose the lot starting prices and the number of the same lots.

How can you enhance auction item listings?

Choosing auction items is one thing, but ensuring they appeal to the audience is the next challenge. As previously mentioned, this is much easier when you select items based on your target audience. 

Our top tips for enhancing listings are as follows:

1. Use High-Quality Images

The first thing potential bidders will see when they come across your auction listing is the images of the item up for bid. Use high-quality images that show your item from various angles, highlighting its unique features. All Givergy auction items are provided with hi-res images to make the task easier!

2. Include Detailed Descriptions

In addition to visually compelling images, your auction listing should also come with a detailed description of the item. Be sure to include all information that potential bidders might want to know about the item, including its condition, dimensions, history, and provenance.

You should also use this as a chance to weave in storytelling and share your narrative.

3. Highlight the Value and Benefits of the Item

Auction listings should not only provide details of the item but also highlight its value and the benefits of owning it. Share information about its rarity or originality to help potential bidders understand its worth.

4. Leverage Social Media 

As you build your auction listing, don’t forget to leverage social media and email marketing to promote your items and encourage people to bid. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are excellent ways to reach a broader audience and generate buzz around your auction. 

What type of auction items does Givergy offer?

We know something about engaging the room with irresistible auction items. To achieve this, we have a dedicated team solely responsible for sourcing brilliant items and securing them at a great price. This means our clients have a diverse catalogue to select from with detailed information available for a strategic decision.

Our collection includes holidays, mini-breaks, experience days, dining sessions, art, sports memorabilia, and exclusive gifts from providers worldwide!

Are you ready to choose your next auction items?

Choosing the right charity auction items can seem daunting, but by following these tips, you are more likely to create a successful fundraising event. Remember to keep your audience in mind, seek out unique items, offer different price points, prioritise quality over quantity, and get creative. By doing so, you can turn your charity auction into a memorable and enjoyable experience that benefits your cause and community.

To find out more, contact us today.

Popular and Unique Fundraising Ideas For Independence Day (4th July)

Posted on by Ella Jacques

Independence Day really is an opportune time to fundraise. With people feeling patriotic and ready to celebrate, there are plenty of opportunities to raise money and awareness for your cause, whilst also having fun. Keep reading to find the most popular Fourth of July fundraising ideas, plus discover some unique Independence Day fundraising ideas which will make your event stand out.

Why should you fundraise on independence day?

Are you looking for the perfect time to fundraise for your cause? Look no further than around or on Independence Day! Many countries all over the world celebrate their own Independence Day and it’s a cause many people are passionate about. Plus, with time off work and school, people have more time to attend fundraising events and volunteer their efforts.

Independence Day is also synonymous with summer fun and outdoor activities like picnics, barbecues, and fireworks displays. Fundraising events that incorporate these types of activities can be particularly attractive to donors and supporters.

Businesses and organizations are also often eager to sponsor fundraising events around Independence Day because it aligns with their own patriotic values and corporate social responsibility efforts.

So, if you’re looking to raise money for your cause, why not do it around Independence Day and leverage the national significance, free time, and outdoor activities that come with it?

What are some of the most popular independence day fundraising ideas?

Looking for some tried and tested, much-loved independence day fundraiser ideas? We have you covered! Here are some of our favorite Fourth of July fundraisers.

Host a Fourth of July themed talent show

With a little bit of planning, you can put on a fantastic event that showcases the talent and creativity of your community while also raising funds for your cause.

To help keep your talent show relevant to Independence Day, make sure you set a theme. For example, you could encourage performers to showcase their talents in singing patriotic songs, reciting historical speeches, or performing dance routines inspired by American culture.

Another idea is to encourage performers to compete for prizes. You can ask local businesses to donate prizes like gift cards, concert tickets, or merchandise, and award them to the winners of different categories such as “Best Vocal Performance” or “Best Dance Performance”. This will not only incentivize performers to do their best, but it will also generate excitement and engagement among your audience.

Firework extravaganza

Come on, it wouldn’t be the Fourth of July without fireworks!

One idea for hosting a firework display fundraiser is to partner with local businesses and sponsors to help cover the costs of the event. Add a fundraising element by creating a ticketed event or asking for pay-as-you-feel donations to view your Independence Day firework extravaganza. You could even consider offering VIP packages that include preferred seating or access to exclusive areas, to help to increase donations further.

Consider hiring a professional firework display company to put on a spectacular show. You can choose a patriotic theme that is relevant to Independence Day, such as red, white, and blue fireworks or fireworks that spell out “USA”. You can also incorporate music into the show to create an even more immersive experience for your audience. Extra points for any flag shapes created in the sky!

Community BBQ

If there’s one way to get donations, it’s with food!

Host an all-American community BBQ with traditional American treats like hot dogs and grilled chicken. Include a kids section where the kids can help to serve and even safely cook.

If you really want to go all out and improve your donation figures, then we’d suggest hiring entertainment such as a local band, and having fun activities at your community BBQ such as a dedicated photobooth station (with plenty of flags and hats on hand!).

Not only could you generate funds from ticket sales, but you could have donation bucket volunteers going round throughout the day, and even host a raffle to get further donations from guests.

Sell patriotic merch

Ahead of the big day, why not take advantage of the fact people will be looking to show their support by offering patriotic merch for sale, which they can wear proudly.

Set up a stand in your community or even sell online via places such as Facebook.

Everything from badges, hats, t-shirts, flags – you could even make your merch tailored to your state or county.

Parade or March

Everyone loves a show right? Why not create a family friendly event your community will love, to celebrate all things Independence Day?

Consider working with your local council to plan the route of the march or parade. You can choose a patriotic theme that is relevant to Independence Day, such as red, white, and blue decorations or a marching band playing patriotic music. You can also create floats or displays that highlight your cause and encourage people to donate.

Even something as simple as having groups of fancy dress and dancers – it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money, but you will need sharp organising skills to make sure all the different groups are well-rehearsed ahead of the event.

On the day itself, make sure you have volunteers with payment readers at the ready, so those enjoying the show can help raise funds for your important cause.

Face painting & glitter station

This is a great one for the day itself, when lots of people will be eager to show their support for Independence Day.

Consider hiring professional face painters or recruiting volunteers with artistic skills to provide a variety of designs that are relevant to Independence Day, such as flags, fireworks, and stars and stripes.

Create a festive atmosphere around the face painting station by offering themed decorations and props. You could even set up a backdrop that features patriotic designs or create a photo booth area where guests can take pictures with their newly painted faces. You can also set up a small merchandise area where you sell patriotic accessories such as hats, bandanas, and pins.

What are some unique independence day fundraiser ideas?

If you’re looking for something a bit different for your independence day fundraiser, then check out these ideas to make your 4th of July fundraising efforts stand out, and generate more donations for your cause.

Red, white & blue challenge

Could you wear red, white and blue for a whole week, even month, to show your support for the annual holiday? 

We love this fun sponsored challenge, which requires you to dress in the American colours for a set period of time. And of course the longer you do it, the more donations you’ll get. 

You could even go one step further and get your entire office or class to join in!

Drone display

Think of a firework display, but 2023 style. 

For this fundraiser you could enlist the help of some drone experts to help you create an awe-inspiring drone show for your community, all patriotic themed, as a ticketed or pay-as-you-feel event. (Just make sure all the drones have flying licences!).

This is likely to generate a lot of interest since drone shows are still relatively new and exciting (not to mention safer!).

Flag design competition

One for the budding artists of your community.

Run a competition for the best designed patriotic flag, charging an entry fee in order to generate donations. You could ask entrants to create the flag out of different materials, with the most inventive ones being put to a public vote!  

The flags could then be proudly put up around your community for the big day itself.

Patriotic painting fundraiser

Offer caricature or portrait paintings to your local community, complete with a patriotic background. This is something you could do ahead of Independence Day or even on the day itself, having various volunteers stationed around the community, armed with their paintbrushes to capture those wonderful memories. 

You could create a set donation fee or offer people pay-as-you-feel, just make sure your donations will cover the costs of the suppliers.

 

In conclusion, Independence Day can be an excellent opportunity to raise donations. By leveraging the holiday and engaging with supporters through creative and fun events and initiatives, you can raise awareness for your cause while also bringing people together to celebrate the holiday.

How to Run a 50/50 Raffle: The Easy Fundraiser That Delivers Serious Results

Posted on by Jordan Morris

If you’re hosting a larger fundraising event or looking to add a quick-win element to an existing campaign, a 50/50 raffle is a brilliant way to raise extra money with minimal effort. It’s simple, flexible, and engaging—everything a great fundraiser should be.

Let’s break down what a 50/50 raffle is, how it works, and how to make the most of it both in-person and online.

What is a 50/50 Raffle?

A 50/50 raffle is a game of chance where the prize is cold, hard cash. Supporters buy tickets, and at the end of the draw, 50% of the proceeds go to the winning ticket holder, while the other 50% goes directly to your cause.

It’s easy to set up and has instant appeal—supporters are motivated by the chance to win money while helping a good cause. That’s a win-win!

How to Run a 50/50 Raffle

  1. Set Your Ticket Price Wisely

Most organisations choose an accessible price point, like £5 or £10 per ticket. Consider your audience—if you’re fundraising at a gala dinner or corporate event, you may be able to set higher ticket prices.

  1. Sell Tickets Efficiently

Whether it’s in-person using physical tickets or via an online prize draw platform like Givergy, your sales process should be seamless. Offering ticket bundles (e.g., 3 for £20) can also help increase sales.

  1. Track Ticket Numbers

Each ticket sold corresponds to a unique number. If you’re running the raffle manually, make sure records are accurate. If you’re using Givergy, all entries are tracked automatically.

  1. Draw the Winner

Once ticket sales are closed, draw a winner at random. Make it a moment! Announce it during a key event, livestream it online, or follow up by email—just make sure participants know when and how the draw will happen.

  1. Split the Pot

One half of the total raised goes to the lucky winner. The other half goes straight to your fundraising pot.

Why 50/50 Raffles Work So Well

Low Effort, High Engagement – They’re incredibly easy to run and fun for participants.

Fast Fundraising – No need for elaborate planning. A 50/50 raffle can be set up and completed in a short timeframe.

Flexible Format – Run them at events, sports matches, galas, or completely online.

Immediate Incentive – Donors love the chance to win cash—it’s a straightforward motivator.

No Prize Sourcing Required – No need to chase sponsors or gather donations. The prize pool builds itself.

Online vs In-Person: What’s Better?

Both formats work well—it depends on your audience and event.

In-Person Raffles:

  • Great for galas, festivals, school events, or sports games.
  • Leverages the energy of a live audience.
  • Works best with visible ticket sellers and signage.

Online Raffles:

  • Reach a wider audience—participants can enter from anywhere.
  • Extend the raffle duration beyond a single event.
  • Minimise admin—platforms like Givergy handle tracking, payments, and notifications.

Bonus: Online raffles allow late entries—even after the event wraps up. That’s more time to raise!

Pro Tip: Split the Pot Creatively

You don’t have to give the full 50% prize to a single winner. Some fundraisers opt to split it into multiple cash prizes (e.g., 1st place = 30%, 2nd place = 15%, 3rd place = 5%).

More winners = more excitement, and more ticket sales.

Run Your 50/50 Raffle with Givergy

At Givergy, we make raffle fundraising simple, secure, and successful. Our Prize Draw tool lets you:

  • Sell tickets online with ease
  • Track entries automatically
  • Draw winners at random and notify them instantly
  • Accept additional donations during entry

You also get built-in promotion tools, mobile optimisation, and real-time reporting—all in one platform.

Whether you’re bolting a 50/50 raffle onto an existing event or launching a standalone online draw, Givergy has everything you need to make it a success.

Ready to create a free 50:50 raffle? Create your campaign in just a few clicks here!

5 Popular Auction Items And Experiences Raising More Across The US

Posted on by Ben Crook

Hosting a fundraising auction can be an efficient way of hitting your fundraising goal…if the foundation of your auction is built on phenomenal items and experiences!

Continue reading “5 Popular Auction Items And Experiences Raising More Across The US”

6 Ways To Include Corporate Giving In Your Fundraising Plan

Posted on by Tim Stansbury

All too often, nonprofits overlook a source of revenue that comes at no cost to them, corporate giving programs! Corporate giving programs are very valuable to growing nonprofits, because they provide organizations with extra funds to make their mission achievable. Instead of receiving one donation from a supporter, you can double their contribution through their employer.

Continue reading “6 Ways To Include Corporate Giving In Your Fundraising Plan”

Increase Participation Through A Prize Draw

Posted on by Ella Jacques

Prize draws/raffles are a great way to increase participation across your event! If you choose the right auction item and market it well, a large sum of your money raised could come from the prize draw.

Continue reading “Increase Participation Through A Prize Draw”

Outdoor Fundraising Events: How To Increase Money Raised

Posted on by Tim Stansbury

Summer has officially (finally) arrived, which means outdoor fundraising events are being held all over the country! From selling mulligans at golf days, to taking a share of the profits from the bets at a race day, there are some great opportunities to unconventionally maximise your fundraising efforts whilst also entertaining your guests.

Continue reading “Outdoor Fundraising Events: How To Increase Money Raised”

5 Exciting Auction Items And Experiences Raising More At London Events!

Posted on by Ben Crook

There is no doubt that sourcing auction items that appeal to your particular guest demographic can be tricky. Luckily, our auction item specialists are on hand to advise you on which auction items will generate funds for your cause! For some inspiration, here are 5 Givergy auction items helping to raise more for a range of charities across London.

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Top 5 Auction Items And Experiences Raising More Across Australia!

Posted on by Ben Crook

Sourcing all the auction items for your next fundraising event is often a daunting and sometimes impossible task for fundraisers. However, our auction item specialists are on hand to advise you on which items from Givergy’s range will be most suited to your audience and budget and will give you the best chance of unlocking their full spending potential. Check out our top 5 auction items helping to raise more for a range of charities across Australia for some inspiration!

Continue reading “Top 5 Auction Items And Experiences Raising More Across Australia!”

5 Auction Items And Experiences Raising More Across The US!

Posted on by Ben Crook

If you’re finding it difficult to source the perfect auction items to wow the guests at your next fundraising event, you’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re looking to source your entire collection or to simply enhance your carefully curated collection, we can provide an array of auction items for you to choose from. In the mean time, check out these 5 auction items helping to raise more for a range of charities across the US for some inspiration!

Continue reading “5 Auction Items And Experiences Raising More Across The US!”