Hey Nonprofits is the ONLY podcast specifically focused on event fundraising and auction strategy — because someone has to stand up for the gala.

This is Part 2 of the Timed to Perfection Series — a 6-part webinar series built entirely around the #1 question we get from nonprofit event fundraisers:

"How do we nail the timing of our event?"

In this episode, we go deeper into the strategies that separate good fundraising events from great ones — covering everything from donor psychology and technology to the sensory details that make your room feel like a movement.

Spoiler: It's not just about raising money. It's about making donors feel something they want to feel again next year.

🔑 *What You'll Learn:*

✅ Why timing is still the #1 lever in fundraising — and how to protect it

✅ The audience engagement techniques that consistently unlock more donations

✅ Why lengthy speeches are quietly killing your golden hour (and what to do instead)

✅ How to use technology to elevate the donor experience — not distract from it

✅ The peer pressure principle: how the room influences individual giving decisions

✅ How to engineer a sensory experience that builds community and keeps donors coming back

✅ Why audience development has to start months before your event — not weeks

✅ The right way to deploy a matching gift so it creates momentum instead of confusion

✅ How to read your audience and adjust your approach in real time

✅ The post-event follow-up strategy that turns one-time donors into long-term supporters

This is the event fundraising conversation your board, your ED, and your auctioneer all need to hear.

*Connect with Trevor Nelson:*

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167

🌐 Website: https://hgafundraising.com

*Connect with Mark Schustrin:*

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markschustrin/

🌐 Website: https://mrkauctions.com/

*Connect with Dan Lyles:*

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-lyles/

🌐 Website: https://danlylesauctions.com/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING*

HGA helps nonprofit event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable — and mission-focused — consignment auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization raise more money.

🔗 Explore auction items: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

🔗 Free fundraising coaching: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

🔗 Subscribe to the newsletter: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Mastering Fundraising Events: Timing and Engagement With Dan Lyles and Mark Schustrin