Best College Fundraising Ideas to Attract Alumni (And Tips to Set Up Your Event)

Creative ways to engage alumni, boost donations, and build lasting connections with college fundraising events

13 October 2025   |   10 minute read

  Tricia Harris

Online Bidding vs. Paper Bidding: Key Differences and Which One to Choose

Choosing the best auction format for your fundraiser without losing your mind

6 October 2025   |   10 minute read

  Becca Wallace

25 Mindblowing Fundraising Statistics to Keep in Mind for Your Next Event

Turning numbers into strategy for your next fundraiser

29 September 2025   |   12 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Inclusive Fundraising: Everything You Need to Know to Make Your Event More Accessible

Simple ways to open your fundraiser to more people without making things more complicated for your team

22 September 2025   |   7 minute read

  Tricia Harris

11 Wildlife Fundraising Ideas to Help Animals During Wildfires

Creative ways to support animals affected by wildfire smoke, habitat loss, and emergency rescues

15 September 2025   |   10 minute read

  Tricia Harris

Understanding the Secrets of Bidding Psychology (and How to Use It for Your Auction Event)

Why some auctions take off and others stall out

8 September 2025   |   10 minute read

  Tricia Harris

Givebutter vs. Gofundme vs. Silent Auction Pro: What’s the Best Option for You?

How these fundraising platforms really compare when you’re short on time, energy, and patience

2 September 2025   |   10 minute read

  Becca Wallace

9 Top Event Management Software for Nonprofits: Features, Pricing, and Reviews

A practical guide to tools that save time, reduce stress, and help you pull off an event that works

25 August 2025   |   10 minute read

  Becca Wallace

10 Things to Keep in Mind When Planning a Fall Auction

Helpful reminders to make your autumn auction easier, smoother, and way more successful

18 August 2025   |   10 minute read

  Tricia Harris

Proxy Bid vs Exact Bid: Differences, Similarities, and What You Should Know About Each

How you bid can change everything

11 August 2025   |   8 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Everything You Need to Know About Building a Successful Fundraising Team (Hiring Tips and Roles Included)

Smart steps to build the right team and keep your event moving forward

4 August 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Non Profit vs Not for Profit – What’s the Difference and Why Does it Matter for Fundraising Tools?

Understanding the real difference and how it affects your fundraising efforts

28 July 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

30+ Consolation Prize Ideas That You Should Add to Your List

Fun and thoughtful ways to reward everyone, not just the winners

21 July 2025   |   15 minute read

  Tricia Harris

Donor Cultivation: How to Build Lasting Relationships with Silent Auction Pro

Some donors give once. The right ones come back.

14 July 2025   |   25 minute read

  Tricia Harris

15 Unique Fundraising Ideas for Colleges and Universities

Creative and practical ways to raise funds, build community, and support student success

9 July 2025   |   20 minute read

  Becca Wallace

11 Common Event-Planning Problems and Solutions

How to avoid the headaches that catch most planners off guard

7 July 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

30+ Easy Fundraising Ideas for Your First Event

Low-stress ways to raise money, boost engagement, and make your first event feel like a win

30 June 2025   |   20 minute read

  Becca Wallace

What to Include in Your Event Communication Plan for Fundraising Success)

Simple strategies that keep your event team, guests, and supporters informed, engaged, and ready to give

16 June 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Why You Need a Fundraiser Goal Tracker (And How to Realign Your Goals This Summer)

Stay focused, adjust your goals, and get back on track with summer fundraising

9 June 2025   |   20 minute read

  Becca Wallace

How to Plan an Alzheimer’s Fundraiser This Summer

Simple steps and creative ideas to organize a successful summer event and raise money for Alzheimer’s research

2 June 2025   |   10 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Are Political Deductions Tax Deductible? Here’s What You Need to Know

Understanding the tax rules around political contributions

26 May 2025   |   10 minute read

  Becca Wallace

11 Mailchimp Alternatives for Nonprofits You Should Use for Email Marketing

Explore better options for email outreach with the top email marketing platforms

19 May 2025   |   18 minute read

  Becca Wallace

9 Donorbox Alternatives You Should Try in 2025

Finding the right fundraising platform doesn't have to be stressful

12 May 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

The Complete List of All Awareness Causes by Month

A full guide to awareness causes by month and how to get involved

8 May 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

How to Effectively Use QR Codes to Speed Up Event Registration and Check In

Simplify check in and registration with QR codes for a smoother event experience

1 May 2025   |   10 minute read

  Becca Wallace

The Complete Guide to Nonprofit Bylaws for Your New Organization

Everything you need to know about writing nonprofit bylaws

24 April 2025   |   12 minute read

  Becca Wallace

How to Start a Fundraising Business in 9 Simple Steps

How to Start a Fundraising Business in 9 Simple Steps

17 April 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

How to Make a Sponsorship Package That Actually Works

A step-by-step guide to creating sponsorship deals that bring in real support

10 April 2025   |   12 minute read

  Becca Wallace

7 Best CRMs for Fundraising — Features, Reviews, and Pricing Included

Find the right fundraising CRM to build donor relationships and simplify event management

4 April 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

15+ Ideas to Host an Affordable Fundraising Event

Creative and budget-friendly ways to raise money without breaking the bank

2 April 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

11 Best Online Auction Software You Should Try in 2025

The ultimate guide to finding the right online auction software for your next fundraiser

27 March 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

11 Questions You Should Ask When Searching for Event Ticketing Platforms

The essential guide to finding the right solution for your fundraising and event needs

25 March 2025   |   22 minute read

  Becca Wallace

25+ Seasonal Fundraising Ideas to Help With Your 2025 Planning

Creative ways to build your fundraising calendar and achieve year-round success

20 March 2025   |   22 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Are Auction Bids Legally Binding? The Truth You Need to Know

Clearing up the confusion around auction bids and legal obligations

18 March 2025   |   8 minute read

  Becca Wallace

How to Host a Ramadan Charity Event for Muslim Americans

A guide to planning a successful fundraiser during Ramadan

11 March 2025   |   23 minute read

  Becca Wallace

How to Host a Successful Fundraising Event for Women's History Month

Easy and effective ways to plan a meaningful fundraiser in March

5 March 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

13 Fundraiser Ideas to Support LA Wildfire Relief

Creative ways to raise funds and help communities recover after the LA wildfires

26 February 2025   |   20 minute read

  Breanne Jones

How Nonprofit Organizations Can Make the Most of CRM Software (Tips and Best Practices Included)

From connecting donors to growing your cause, CRM NPO strategies that truly work

20 February 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

The Complete Guide to Hosting a Successful Car Wash Fundraiser

Everything you need to know to raise money and make a splash for your cause

18 February 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Sponsor vs Donor—Understanding the Difference (And How to Appeal to Both

A practical guide to engaging sponsors and donors for your nonprofit's success

13 February 2025   |   15 minute read

  Breanne Jones

15 Best Donation Landing Page Examples (And How to Create Your Own)

Inspiration for creating high-converting donation websites that drive support for your cause

11 February 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

6 Types of Nonprofit Marketing Tools Every Organization Must Have

Empower your nonprofit with the right tools to amplify your impact

6 February 2025   |   15 minute read

  Breanne Jones

12 Best Nonprofit Marketing Campaigns to Inspire You

Inspiring nonprofit campaigns that prove creativity drives impact

4 February 2025   |   15 minute read

  Breanne Jones

Who are Major Donors, and Why Does Your Fundraiser Need Them?

Learn the key role major donors play in fundraising and how to identify, engage, and build lasting relationships with these invaluable supporters.

30 January 2025   |   15 minute read

  Breanne Jones

How to Reactivate Lapsed Donors in 7 Easy Steps (+ Tools to Use)

7 Steps to rekindle donor relationships and boost your fundraising efforts

23 January 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Silent Auction vs Raffle: What's the Better Fundraising Option?

Choosing the right path to maximize your fundraising success

16 January 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

What is a Donor Journey Map, and Why Do Nonprofits Need One?

Understanding donor journey mapping and its impact on nonprofit success

9 January 2025   |   15 minute read

  Jim Donnell

How to Create and Sell More Fundraiser Tickets in 2025 and Beyond

Building ticket sales for your nonprofit’s most successful fundraiser yet

2 January 2025   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

How to Create a Fundraising Calendar for 2025

6 steps to successful fundraiser planning for the New Year

18 December 2024   |   15 minute read

  Breanne Jones

Door Prize Ideas to Spice Up Your Event

Exciting door prize ideas that bring fun and leave a lasting impression

11 December 2024   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Big Money Fundraising Ideas for Nonprofits

Unlock major gifts with big money fundraising ideas for nonprofits

4 December 2024   |   20 minute read

  Becca Wallace

What is Peer-to-Peer Fundraising? Our Comprehensive Guide

Everything you need to know to get started with peer-to-peer fundraising for your next successful campaign

27 November 2024   |   20 minute read

  Breanne Jones

30 Christmas Fundraising Ideas Guaranteed to Maximize Your Donations

Stress-free holiday fundraising that brings in big donations

20 November 2024   |   15 minute read

  Breanne Jones

Food For Thought: 27 Food Fundraising Ideas

Delicious and fun ways to raise money for your cause

13 November 2024   |   23 minute read

  Breanne Jones

15 Auction Themes for Schools to Inspire Your Next Fundraising Event

Creative and exciting ways to host school auctions that will energize your fundraising efforts

6 November 2024   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Starting Bids, Bid Strategies, and Setting Up Your Silent Auction Items for Success

Setting starting bids that attract bidders and drive success

30 October 2024   |   23 minute read

  Becca Wallace

What Is an In-Kind Donation? Here Is Everything You Need to Know

A comprehensive guide to understanding and maximizing in-kind donations

23 October 2024   |   20 minute read

  Becca Wallace

27 Volunteer Appreciation Ideas (Plus Favorite Gifts!)

Creative ways to show volunteers how much they mean

16 October 2024   |   15 minute read

  Breanne Jones

What is Giving Tuesday? (Theme Ideas and How to Organize Your Event)

Discover the impact of Giving Tuesday and how Silent Auction Pro can kickstart your fundraising efforts

9 October 2024   |   20 minute read

  Breanne Jones

The Beginner's Guide to Nonprofit Payment Processing: Process + Tools

Understanding the importance of payment processing for nonprofits

2 October 2024   |   20 minute read

  Jim Donnell

11 Thanksgiving Fundraising Ideas for the Festive Season

Creative and simple ways to raise funds during the Thanksgiving holiday season

25 September 2024   |   15 minute read

  Breanne Jones

Warm Up with These Winter Holiday Fundraising Ideas

Explore these creative and inclusive winter holiday fundraising ideas

18 September 2024   |   20 minute read

  Becca Wallace

21 Fundraising Ideas for Church Youth Groups (and Why They Work)

Unleash your creativity with these effective fundraising ideas for church youth groups

11 September 2024   |   25 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Top Donor Acquisition Strategies That You Need to Start Using

6 proven methods to attract and retain donors for your cause

4 September 2024   |   12 minute read

  Breanne Jones

The Complete Event Planning Checklist for Schools (Tips and Best Practices Included)

A stress-free guide for organizing successful school events

28 August 2024   |   19 minute read

  Becca Wallace

How to Use Moves Management to Increase Donations

Make your fundraisers soar with proven moves management strategies

21 August 2024   |   19 minute read

  Breanne Jones

19+ Effective Sports Fundraising Ideas for the New School Year

Boost your team's spirit and funds: innovative sports fundraising strategies

14 August 2024   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

The Ultimate Guide to Nonprofit Analytics for Successful Fundraising

Harnessing data to drive your nonprofit’s success

7 August 2024   |   19 minute read

  Breanne Jones

How to Use Consignment Auction Items in Your Fundraising Strategy (50+ Item Ideas)

Strengthen your fundraising with consignment auction items

31 July 2024   |   19 minute read

  Breanne Jones

3 Pros and Cons of Including the Estimated Value of Items in Your Auction Catalog (Plus 3 Tips for Raising the Most Money)

Should you put a value on silent auction items?

24 July 2024   |   25 minute read

  Jim Donnell

30+ Golf Tournament Fundraiser Ideas You Can't Go Wrong With

How popular golf tournaments increase fundraising efforts

17 July 2024   |   23 minute read

  Breanne Jones

29 Themed Silent Auction Basket Ideas to Inspire You

Unlock creativity with our top silent auction basket themes

10 July 2024   |   23 minute read

  Breanne Jones

11 Items to Avoid in Your Next Auction

Why choosing the right auction items matters

3 July 2024   |   20 minute read

  Breanne Jones

The Step-by-Step Guide to Hosting Better Hybrid Auctions

Why hybrid auctions are the future of fundraising

28 June 2024   |   11 minute read

  Becca Wallace

70+ Unique Fundraising Ideas for Schools)

Creative fundraising ideas to upgrade your school

19 June 2024   |   20 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Best Practices to Build Your Digital or Printed Auction Catalog (Template Included!)

Streamline your fundraising event with a professional auction catalog

12 June 2024   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

11 Crowdfunding Campaign Examples to Inspire You

How crowdfunding fuels dreams through the potential of collective support

6 June 2024   |   15 minute read

  Jim Donnell

Understanding the 4 Stages of the Donor Cycle

A comprehensive guide to the donor engagement cycle

4 June 2024   |   15 minute read

  Breanne Jones

8 GoFundMe Alternatives You Need to Try

Exploring top crowdfunding solutions beyond GoFundMe

30 May 2024   |   23 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Silent Auction vs Live Auction: Which One is Better for My Nonprofit?

Exploring the differences between silent and live auctions for fundraising

23 May 2024   |   15 minute read

  Breanne Jones

Are Charity Auctions Legal? Here Are Three Things You Need To Know.

Understanding the legality of charity auctions

21 May 2024   |   15 minute read

  Jim Donnell

Everything You Need to Know About Buyer's Premium in an Auction

Decoding the buyer's premium: How it impacts your next auction experience

15 May 2024   |   12 minute read

  Becca Wallace

What Is Proxy Bidding? Why Should I Use It?

Unlocking the advantages of proxy bidding for your next auction

9 May 2024   |   12 minute read

  Becca Wallace

5 Auction Games to Make Your Event a Success

Have fun and increase participation with these top auction games

7 May 2024   |   12 minute read

  Breanne Jones

7 Winning Fundraiser Seating Strategies To Maximize Bids

Creating the perfect layout for your next charity event

2 May 2024   |   12 minute read

  Breanne Jones

What Is a Nonprofit Donor Database and How Can You Create One?

Unlocking the potential of your nonprofit with an effective donor database

30 Apr 2024   |   15 minute read

  Jim Donnell

The Complete Guide to Text To Give Fundraising for Nonprofits

How text-to-give empowers your nonprofit's fundraising efforts

24 Apr 2024   |   12 minute read

  Breanne Jones

7 Things To Do to Receive More Donations Online + 4 Platforms You Can Use

Unlocking online donations: A strategic guide for nonprofits

17 Apr 2024   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

7 Tips For a Successful Paddle Raise (From an Expert with 20 Years in the Auction Industry)

Explore expert tips for your next successful paddle raise

11 Apr 2024   |   15 minute read

  Jim Donnell

What is a Nonprofit Impact Report and How Can You Write One Using Silent Auction Pro?

Crafting an engaging impact report nonprofit organizations can use to unlock its value

9 Apr 2024   |   15 minute read

  Breanne Jones

How to Host an Online Auction: 15 Tips for Nonprofits

A comprehensive guide for nonprofits on hosting online auctions

4 Apr 2024   |   20 minute read

  Jim Donnell

How to Create a Tax-Compliant Donor Receipt + Templates

A guide to crafting compliant donor receipts

2 Apr 2024   |   15 minute read

  Jim Donnell

5 Nonprofit Fundraising Trends to Know in 2024

Your blueprint for embracing nonprofit success in the new year

27 Mar 2024   |   15 minute read

  Jim Donnell

10 Nonprofit Email Marketing Ideas and How To Implement Them

Unlocking success through nonprofit email marketing strategies and implementation

20 Mar 2024   |   20 minute read

  Breanne Jones

5 Monthly Giving Program Examples and How to Set One Up

Unlocking the power of consistency with monthly giving programs

14 Mar 2024   |   12 minute read

  Breanne Jones

How to Use Fundraising Analytics for More Successful Events

Unlocking the power of fundraising analytics for event success

12 Mar 2024   |   12 minute read

  Breanne Jones

24 Spring Fundraising Ideas for 2024

Find inspiration and spring forward your fundraising efforts

7 Mar 2024   |   20 minute read

  Breanne Jones

A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Donation Page for Nonprofit Events

Discover how to create a donation page that engages your audience and raises more money for your cause.

5 Mar 2024   |   15 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Top 9 Mobile Bidding Software You Should Try in 2024

Explore the top mobile bidding platforms: features, pricing, and more

7 Feb 2024   |   20 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Fundraiser Performance Management Explained (Best Practices)

6 Strategies to analyze, guide, and improve your fundraising efforts

1 Feb 2024   |   11 minute read

  Breanne Jones

Here's What Every Nonprofit Needs to Know About Donor Segmentation

Explore how to engage, acquire, and manage donors for deeper connections and great success

26 Jan 2024   |   20 minute read

  Breanne Jones

Here's What Nonprofits Can Do to Encourage Recurring Donations

How Silent Auction Pro can help maximize your recurring revenue

23 Jan 2024   |   11 minute read

  Breanne Jones

7 Steps to Successful Fundraising Event Planning

The art of masterful fundraising event planning

19 Jan 2024   |   15 minute read

  Jim Donnell

Fundraising Strategies You Should Try at your Nonprofit

Increase your organization's reach with proven strategies

17 Jan 2024   |   15 minute read

  Breanne Jones

OneCause vs. Givesmart vs. Silent Auction Pro: Features, pricing, reviews, and more

Navigating the world of the most popular fundraising software options

28 Dec 2023 | 17 minute read

  Becca Wallace

Donor Management Explained + 7 Tools You Should Try in 2024

Explore building better relationships with these innovative software solutions

26 Dec 2023 | 18 minute read

  Becca Wallace

11 Most Successful Fundraising Campaign Examples to Take Inspiration From

Draw inspiration from the power of exceptional fundraising campaigns

21 Dec 2023   |   11 minute read

  Breanne Jones

Donor-centric Fundraising Explained + 5 Tips to get you Started

Revolutionizing engagement: A guide to donor-focused strategies

19 Dec 2023   |   10 minute read

  Breanne Jones

Crowdfunding vs Fundraising: How Are They Different?

Explore the differences between crowdfunding and raising to know which is better for you

14 Dec 2023   |   13 minute read

  Breanne Jones

18 Great Ideas for Silent Auction Items for Every Budget

Finding the perfect auction items for every wallet

12 Dec 2023   |   12 minute read

  Jim Donnell

23 Holiday Fundraising Ideas to End the Year Right

7 Dec 2023   |   23 minute read

  Jim Donnell

How to Price Silent Auction Items

12 Tips from an expert

5 Dec 2023   |   11 minute read

  Jim Donnell

Are charity auctions tax deductible?

Everything you need to know about the mysteries of charity auctions and taxes

30 Nov 2023   |   9 minute read

  Jim Donnell

How to write a silent auction donation request letter

A step-by-step guide for fundraising success

28 Nov 2023   |   9 minute read  

  Breanne Jones

Silent auction rules

11 silent auction rules you must follow for a successful event

17 Nov 2023   |   11 minute read

  Jim Donnell

What is a silent auction, and how does it work?

A complete guide to mastering silent auctions

15 Nov 2023   |   15 minute read

  Jim Donnell