How to Choose Auction Items for Fundraising Campaigns

Posted by Ella Jacques on 26 July 2023

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.

Ella Jacques

Global Client Services Manager at Givergy

Ella heads up the global Fundraising & Events team. A key part of Givergy’s growth for four years, Ella has a passion for event planning and ensuring her and her teams’ clients exceed their fundraising targets. Furthermore, Ella’s exposure to some of the highest-profile fundraising events gives her a unique insight into the newest and most innovative way in which charities are engaging with their audiences.