top of page
  • Writer's pictureTricia Roseveare

Should My Nonprofit Host A Virtual Pop-Up Auction?



Great question, we're glad you asked! The answer is of course yes, but read on to learn WHYHo a virtual pop-up auction is a good idea for your nonprofit - and more importantly find out just how EASY it is to do!


But first things first...


What Is A Pop-Up Auction?


A virtual nonprofit pop-up auction fundraiser is an event that involves a limited-time auction of items or experiences to raise money for a charitable cause. These auctions are typically held online for a short period, such as a few hours or days.


Nonprofits may use a pop-up auction as a way to raise funds quickly for a specific project or program. They may reach out to individuals or businesses to donate items or services such as gift certificates, travel packages, artwork, or unique experiences.


Risk-free providers like Charity Ace and Jewels With A Purpose, will also provide items on consignment, that a nonprofit would feature virtually and only pay the wholesale cost of the item if it sells. Auction consignment items are a great way to get some fantastic items without having to ask for donations or purchase anything up-front.


During the auction, participants can bid on the items using a variety of methods, such as through an online platform or in person. The highest bidder at the end of the auction period wins the item, and the proceeds go directly to the nonprofit organization. Pop-up auctions for nonprofits can be a fun and exciting way for donors to contribute to a good cause while also obtaining unique items or experiences.



What Items Should I Feature?


People like to win a variety of items at auctions, depending on their personal interests and preferences. However, some types of items tend to be more popular among bidders, including:

  1. Unique experiences: This can include things like vacations, concert tickets, or exclusive access to events or activities.

  2. Artwork: Bidders may be interested in unique pieces of art, such as paintings, sculptures, or photographs.

  3. Memorabilia: Items that are associated with a celebrity, athlete, or historical event can be popular among collectors and fans.

  4. Luxury items: High-end products like designer handbags, jewelry, or electronics can attract bidders who are looking for a premium item.

  5. Services: Bidders may be interested in services such as spa treatments, personal training sessions, or cooking classes.

  6. Gift cards: Bidders may be interested in winning gift cards to their favorite stores or restaurants.

In general, items that are unique, valuable, and difficult to obtain through regular channels tend to be popular at auctions. Additionally, items that are relevant to the cause or mission of the nonprofit hosting the auction can also be attractive to bidders who are passionate about the cause.






How Do I Host A Pop-Up Auction?


To host a pop-up auction for your nonprofit, you will need to follow these steps:

  1. Determine the purpose of your auction and how much money you would like to raise.

  2. Make a list of potential donors to invite and sponsors who can donate items, experiences, or services for the auction.

  3. Select an online auction platform like ZGIVE, to host your event, manage your auction items, accept bids, and track donations.

  4. Set a date and time for your auction, and promote it widely to your network and supporters through social media, email marketing, and word of mouth.

  5. After the auction, be sure to thank all of your donors, sponsors, and volunteers for their contributions, and provide updates to your supporters on how the funds raised will be used to support your nonprofit's mission.

Remember, hosting a pop-up auction can be a fun and effective way to quickly raise funds for your nonprofit, and it can be easy to do if you choose the right online auction platform.


The secret to fundraising these days is diversifying your portfolio and hosting different types of fundraisers for your nonprofit throughout the year. Donors want to give, but if you can provide them a value-added incentive to get something AND help make a positive impact, it is a WIN-WIN for everyone!

ZGIVE Offers A Turn-Key Pop-Up Auction!


ZGIVE, a digital auction fundraising platform for nonprofits, has a pop-up auction ready to go! To make it super easy, we do the work for you and feature twelve risk-free items on consignment (vacations, jewelry, and memorabilia - a few of the items are feature above). All you need to do is promote your event and invite your donors to attend! We even load in onto your auction portal - it doesn't get easier than that!


Kick-start your Spring fundraising and start raising money for your mission right away. We can't wait to partner with you and help you achieve your nonprofit's fundraising goals.


To schedule a free, zero-obligation demo CLICK HERE and remember to ask about our - we do it for you pop-up auction!


Visit zgive.com to learn more about easy digital auction fundraising for your nonprofit organization.




bottom of page