Fundraising


Run events and campaigns to appeal to a wider network of supporters – and raise additional funds for your school


HOW TO RUN A SILENT AUCTION


A


silent auction is a crowd-pleasing way to raise income with very little outlay, so it’s


no surprise that these type of fundraisers are on the increase, frequently run as an additional draw at events such as Christmas fairs and school balls. Instead of a noisy auctioneer shouting out bids to a room full of raised hands, a silent auction requires bids to be submitted online or on paper, either before or during an event. Winning bids are announced – ideally by a lively compere who can whip up plenty of excitement – once bidding has closed. All you need to get started are a few eye-watering ‘prizes’ that people really want to compete for.


Sourcing prizes This is often the biggest challenge. Start as early as possible and reach out to everyone you know who can potentially donate items with strong bidder appeal. Aim for between fi ve and ten highvalue items, as this will give you more profi t than multiple smaller items. The more unique the prizes, the more anticipation (and bids) you will generate. Seek out one-of-a-kind items such as VIP tickets to sporting events, a meal on the chef’s tasting table at a Michelin-starred restaurant, or use of a luxury car for a weekend. Tell local companies what you


are looking for – and what kind of coverage they can expect in return. Tap into the resource base of your


Luxury food


hamper


Personal training session


community. Can you get someone to give away a week at their holiday home? Could an artist offer a bespoke piece of artwork? Give donors as much publicity


as you can: offer them an advert in your programme, link to them on your Facebook page and announce their name during the event.


On the day A good master of ceremonies is paramount. A silent auction doesn’t have the competitive aspect of a live auction, so you’ll need someone to inject some drama. Your MC should let the audience know if any lots haven’t been bid on and where potential bargains are to be had.


FundEd AUTUMN 2019 37


IMAGES: BRAVISSIMOS / NIKKYTOK / MAX5799 / KATERINCHIK73 / NISERIN / KZENON / ISTOCKPHOTO.COM


LOT 3 LOT 1


Football match tickets


Sushi


making class


LOT 2 LOT 4


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