Most nonprofits think more silent auction items = more money. Phil Sanger has spent 15+ years proving the opposite.

In this episode, Phil, founder of HelloFund and an OG in the fundraising tech space since 2009, joins Trevor to break down what's actually working at galas right now and what's quietly killing revenue.

We cover:

→ Why the "espresso machine in the silent auction" mindset is costing you donors

→ The bid paddle mistake auctioneers hate (and the better way to land that sponsorship)

→ Closing your silent auction AFTER the event — and why it's making orgs more money

→ Using the silent auction to test future live auction items (and identify new major donors)

→ The check-in data you need 3 days before your event to avoid a slow line at the door

→ Why nonprofit turnover is leading to "paralysis by analysis" — and how to lead through it

→ "Software works WITH people, not instead of them" — what AI actually means for fundraisers

Whether you're raising $25K or $1M+ at your next gala, this one's worth your time.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro

00:33 The Role of Software in Nonprofits

02:52 Phil Sanger's Journey and HelloFund

06:27 Challenges in the Nonprofit Sector

07:33 Leadership and Decision-Making in Nonprofits

11:08 Simplifying Processes for Better Outcomes

14:36 Maximizing Auction Effectiveness

16:28 Silent Auction Strategies

22:00 Streamlining Check-In and Check-Out

24:49 Closing Silent Auctions for More Revenue

26:46 Final Thoughts and Future Opportunities

28:35 BONUSHave a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Phil's Website HelloFund: https://www.hellofund.com/

Connect with Phil on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philsanger/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/