Online charity auctions raise more money than paper silent auctions: more people can bid, from anywhere, and the competition of live bidding pushes prices up. Here's how to run one on your own auction website.
1. Collect Great Items
Experiences and unique items raise the most: a dinner with a local chef, signed sports memorabilia, art donated by local artists, holiday homes, behind-the-scenes tours. Ask local businesses – it's great publicity for them.
2. Write Lots That Make People Bid
Every item needs good photos and a description that explains why it's special and who donated it. An AI description writer makes this fast when you have dozens of lots.
3. Set Simple Rules
- A low starting bid to get the bidding going
- A reserve price only for valuable items
- Anti-sniping, so the end of the auction stays exciting and fair
- Buy Now for supporters who want an item at any price
4. Promote It
Send the auction to your supporters by e-mail, share the best lots on social media every day, and remind people when the auction is ending. Watchlists and ending-soon reminders do the reminding for you.
5. Collect Payments Online
Let winners pay by card or PayPal immediately, and offer bank transfer for larger amounts. Online payment means you collect the money before the excitement fades.
6. Thank Everyone
Publish the results, thank the donors and the winners, and keep the website online for next year – your list of bidders is now your most valuable fundraising asset.
The Right Software
A charity auction doesn't need commissions, but it does need reliable bidding, payments and an easy way for supporters to bid from their phone. PHP Bid can run with zero fees, a buyer's premium that goes to the cause, or any combination you like – on your own domain and with your own branding. See it in the live demo.