2025 State of Nonprofit Auctions Report Key Findings: Why Event Fundraising Still Delivers BIG Results
At a time when some are questioning the value of event fundraising, the 2025 State of Nonprofit Auctions Report stands as a powerful reminder of how much potential auctions hold for nonprofits. With feedback from auction donors and nonprofit professionals, plus insights from the OneCause Fundraising Platform, this first-ever comprehensive report on nonprofit auctions highlights their lasting value and revenue-generating power.
Here’s a closer look at the key findings from the report and what they mean for nonprofit professionals who want to make the most of their auction events.
1. Auction Attendees Have Strong Potential to Become Long-Term Donors
Auction donors aren’t just one-time participants—they are among the most engaged and loyal supporters in the nonprofit sector. The report found that 82% of auction attendees said they would attend another event for the same organization, 83% said they’re likely to become annual donors, 64% reported they’re likely to become monthly donors, and 91% reported they were likely to make another donation in the 12 months after attending an auction.
Auction attendees are literally telling us they’re not just a source of immediate revenue, but a pipeline for long-term, recurring support. With these types of donors, there’s an opportunity to build relationships that last well beyond the auction date.
What can you do? Don’t treat your auction donors as one-off contributors. Use your auction events as a stepping stone to build long-term relationships. Create tailored follow-up strategies that help transition these attendees into annual and even monthly donors. Make them feel valued by showcasing the impact of their contributions and keeping them engaged year-round.
2. Nonprofit Auctions Are a Proven Source of Growing Revenue
The report confirms what many nonprofit professionals already know: when done well, auctions are a reliable and effective revenue generator. With 77% of nonprofit professionals reporting consistent or increased revenue from auctions, and 90% expecting that trend to continue, the data shows auctions are anything but a passing trend. These events not only generate substantial revenue but can also increase in effectiveness over time with the right strategies.
The key words from above? “When done well.” Yes, auctions take work. Fundraising in general takes work. As our friend T. Clay Buck of Next River Fundraising Strategies says, there is no “Easy Button” in fundraising.
What can you do? Take the time to plan and refine your auction strategy. Don’t rush the process—use feedback from attendees, volunteers, and board members to make meaningful improvements year over year. By iterating and continuously improving your auctions, you’ll maximize their effectiveness and build a more loyal donor base over time.
3. The Right Auction Items Drive Engagement and Bidding Activity
When it comes to successful auctions, item variety and quality are key. One surveyed auction participant said:
Offering a wide range of items—from high-end experiences to more affordable options— helps ensure broad bidder engagement.
Thirty-three percent (33%) of auction attendees bid on gift cards, 32% on dining and culinary, and 26% bid on travel packages, showing that people are looking for a mix of luxury and accessible items.
What can you do? Curate your auction inventory with both high-ticket and more budget-friendly options. This diversity will maximize participation and help increase bids from donors with varying budgets. Additionally, make sure your items are aligned with what attendees are likely to value and bid on – you know your supporters best!
4. Auction Technology Enhances Engagement—Especially Among Younger Donors
Auction technology is no longer a “nice-to-have” — it’s essential to keep donors engaged, especially younger generations. According to the study, 65% of Gen Z and Millennials value receiving outbid notifications via text, 61% want buy-it-now and fixed-price items, and 59% prefer receiving automatic suggestions for items related to what they’re bidding on. These features enhance the overall bidding experience and help keep younger, tech-savvy donors engaged throughout the event.
What can you do? Invest in technology that supports mobile bidding, live-streaming, real-time notifications, and personalized suggestions. This will not only increase your appeal to younger donors but also improve the experience for all attendees, ensuring your auction is accessible and interactive for everyone.
The 2025 State of Nonprofit Auctions Report reinforces that auctions are more than just a short-term revenue source—they’re a powerful touchpoint for building long-term donor relationships. By offering a well-curated mix of items, utilizing innovative technology, and engaging donors through personalized experiences, nonprofits can turn auction attendees into loyal supporters who continue to give year after year.
By refining your auction strategy and focusing on engagement with your mission at every step, you can build a foundation for sustained success and deeper donor relationships.
Download the full report today and learn how to leverage auctions as a key driver of long-term fundraising success!
