10 Top Silent Auction Ideas

These creative fundraising ideas are sure to open up some bidding wars at your next event 

Of course your auction items need to include the basics, but gift baskets and vouchers aren't going to get people fired up and digging deep are they? So, you need to get creative with your silent auction ideas. This is your big chance to wow your guests with charity auction ideas that will not only get the money rolling in, but will make your event a night to remember. 

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1. GLOBETROTTING 

Whether it's simply taking a roam through Rome, or flying fighter jets over Russia, the once-in-a-lifetime travel experience always creates a buzz. It's a big-ticket item, but make sure you get everyone in the travel mood by promoting the experience on your website and Facebook page well ahead of time. Worried about the mechanics of organising a trip? GalaBid can help with some stress and risk free options. 

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2. KID-FRIENDLY 

A unique experience for a child is a sure-fire way to raise funds. Could you arrange a behind-the scenes trip at the local zoo? Maybe the local fire service would take a little one for a ride, or cops could take them on patrol. And you can't beat getting on the pitch with a favourite footy team. How about the chance to win the ultimate birthday party for your child? Donations could come from the local cake shop, play centre, toyshop, etc. 

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3. GROUP HUG 

Groups at your silent auction will fall over themselves to bid on a fun team-based activity, and will even egg each other on to bid more. Most people think of things like white water rafting or paintball games but create a bigger buzz with something out-there, like a workshop to learn harmony singing or the trapeze. 

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4. FOOD FOR THOUGHT 

Unique dining experiences are always a winner, especially if you can persuade a celebrity chef to do the cooking. If not, how about a group BBQ cooking course? Or, package up a äóÖfood safari' experience. That's a starter, main and dessert from three of the best restaurants in town, with a limo to ferry you from one to the next. 

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5. SOMETHING FOR THE WEEKEND 

Those on a lesser budget, who still want to bid on a travel experience, will be keen to land a nice weekend away. Once again, spice it up with an added extra, such as a hot air balloon ride or the chance to rev up a racecar. 

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6. SPORTING CHANCE 

Sports memorabilia is usually an easy one to organise and a great silent auction idea as it plays nicely into the competitive nature of your sporting supporters. Get the local team to sign a shirt or ball and you'd be surprised how quickly the bids roll in. 

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7. HELPING HAND 

Do you know a local car mechanic that will do a free car service? Or, could a group of your charity's supporters get together and clean the winner's house from top to bottom. Think about what people can offer. If a friend owns a yacht, see if they'll host a party for a bidder and 10 friends. Rope other people in to provide the food and play bartender. 

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8. ART ATTACK 

A unique artwork will generate interest at any auction, but it doesn't need to be a masterpiece that breaks the bank. Many artists will be happy to donate for the publicity they will receive, and might even be willing to paint a portrait of the winning bidder. Think creatively around photography, too. People are willing to pay a lot for family photoshoots and unique prints of the local town. 

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9. EXCESS CASH 

For every winning bidder, there are many losers, and you don't want them to walk home with all that cash in their pocket, right? Set up a 'Buy up Service' table as people walk out the door, so guests can still donate money in a creative way. For example, if you're trying to raise money for a sports team for underprivileged kids, could someone simply donate the price of a football, a jersey, or the cost to hire a pitch for the season? 

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10. BRAINSTORM 

Don't try to come up with all the ideas on your own, as there will be plenty of people who'd love to throw around some silent auction ideas. It's the best way to make sure your donors stay engaged with your auction, your event and your organisation. Remember, GalaBid's fundraising software will make sure everything runs smoothly when it comes to bids and paying äóñ but you need to give your guests something worth bidding on! Find out how we can help you at your next fundraising event. Let's talk!