How to Find Quality Live and Silent Auction Items

The success of your live or silent auction hinges on one thing: the items you offer. Great auction items don’t just fill tables—they create excitement, drive competition, and keep guests engaged from start to finish. But finding those standout items takes more than sending a few donation request emails.

The best auction lineups strike a balance between value and excitement. They offer something people want– whether it’s a luxury experience, a rare collectible, or a creative package they can’t find anywhere else. So, how do you get auction items for charity fundraisers that people will actually bid on? It comes down to understanding what works, building strong relationships, and thinking outside the box. 

Let’s review some practical ways to find high-quality items that will make your auction successful..

1. Local Businesses and Corporate Sponsors

Best for: Gift cards, restaurant vouchers, retail products, hotel stays, spa treatments

Looking for great silent auction items for a fundraiser? Start by reaching out to businesses in your community. Many local shops, restaurants, and service providers are happy to donate items or experiences in exchange for exposure at your event.

Begin with businesses that align with your cause. A local spa might donate a massage package, while a popular café could offer a gift card. If your nonprofit supports kids, a children’s bookstore or toy shop might be a good place to ask.

Corporate sponsors are another option. Larger companies often have community giving programs, and some even set aside budgets specifically for charitable donations. 

Reach out to their marketing or community relations teams and ask about sponsorship opportunities. Some may donate products, while others might offer services like event space, catering, or branded merchandise.

Websites like TheShareWay can help you find businesses willing to donate to auctions. You can create an event profile and get a list of potential donors in your area. ​

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2. Community Members and Major Donors

Best for: Unique experiences, memorabilia, personal collectibles

Some of the best charity auction items come from people who already support your nonprofit. Community members, board members, and major donors often have valuable items or unique experiences they’re willing to contribute.

Start by reaching out to your strongest supporters. These could be local families, volunteers, or business owners who believe in your cause. 

Someone might have a vacation home they can offer for a weekend getaway, while another might donate tickets to a big game or concert. Others may have handmade crafts, artwork, or collectibles that could bring in high bids.

Major donors can also be a great resource. They may have access to exclusive items, behind-the-scenes experiences, or connections with businesses that can provide high-value donations. 

If they can’t donate an item directly, they might be willing to cover the cost of a sought-after auction item, like a new tech gadget or a luxury dining experience.

3. Online Auction Procurement Services

Best for: High-value consignment items like travel packages, luxury goods, and celebrity memorabilia

If you’re struggling to find silent auction items for nonprofit events, online auction procurement services can help. These companies offer a selection of high-value items, like vacation packages, sports memorabilia, and exclusive experiences. 

Your nonprofit can include these items in your auction without securing them directly.

Most procurement services work on a consignment basis, meaning you only pay for an item if it sells. This setup allows you to offer big-ticket prizes without taking on any financial risk. If an item doesn’t sell, you don’t lose money.

For example, Winspire provides travel packages nonprofits can include in their auctions. If a package sells, the organization pays Winspire the predetermined cost and keeps any additional funds raised.

There are plenty of options to choose from, so look for a service that fits your needs. Some specialize in travel experiences, while others focus on sports, entertainment, or unique collectibles. Check the terms and any fees before adding items to your auction.

Not sure how to find the right auction items? Read our guide on How to Choose Silent Auction Items That Sell Well.

4. Local Artists, Craftspeople, and Small Businesses

Best for: Handmade goods, artwork, photography sessions, and custom jewelry

One of the best ways to find unique silent auction items is by connecting with local artists, craftspeople, and small businesses. These creators often have one-of-a-kind pieces that can add personality to your auction while also supporting the local economy.

Reach out to painters, photographers, woodworkers, and jewelry makers in your area. Many are happy to donate a piece in exchange for visibility at your event. Their work could be a great addition to a home or a special gift for a bidder.

Small businesses, like boutique shops and specialty stores, can also provide great auction items. A handmade quilt, a custom pottery set, or a locally made gourmet food basket can draw interest from bidders looking for something unique.

When making the ask, highlight how their donation helps both your nonprofit and their business. Let them know you’ll promote their work in your auction materials and at the event. 

A little recognition can go a long way in building strong partnerships for future fundraising efforts.

5. Entertainment and Hospitality Industry

Best for: Concert tickets, private dining experiences, VIP passes

A great way to find high-interest auction items is by reaching out to the entertainment and hospitality industry. 

Hotels, resorts, theaters, and restaurants often donate gift cards, overnight stays, or exclusive experiences that bidders love. These items can add excitement to your event while giving businesses exposure.

If you're wondering how to get auction items for charity, start by contacting hotels and resorts in your area. Many are willing to donate a weekend stay or a special package, especially if they get recognition at your event. 

High-end restaurants might offer a dining experience, while local theaters or concert venues can provide tickets to a show.

Entertainment centers are also great options. Concert tickets or a behind-the-scenes tour can create bidding competition. If your city hosts major events, see if you can secure VIP passes or meet-and-greet opportunities.

6. Sports Teams and Fitness Centers

Best for: Signed memorabilia, game tickets, gym memberships, sports lessons

Sports-related auction items always draw interest, especially from fans and fitness enthusiasts. Whether it’s game tickets, signed memorabilia, or exclusive training sessions, these items can bring in strong bids while giving donors a fun experience.

Start by contacting local professional, college, or minor league teams. 

Many teams have community outreach programs and may donate tickets, VIP experiences, or signed merchandise. A jersey or ball signed by a favorite player can be a big hit at your event.

Fitness centers and gyms are another great source. Many are willing to donate gym memberships, personal training sessions, or specialty fitness classes like yoga or boxing. These items appeal to bidders looking for ways to stay active and try something new.

7. Travel and Adventure Companies

Best for: Vacation stays, adventure packages, outdoor gear

Getaways and adventure experiences make exciting silent auction items for nonprofit events. People love bidding on trips, unique excursions, and outdoor activities they might not book on their own.

Start by reaching out to hotels, airlines, and travel agencies. Many businesses donate vacation packages, weekend stays, or discounted flights, especially if they see it as a way to attract future customers. 

Bed-and-breakfasts, boutique resorts, and rental property owners may also be open to donating a few nights’ stay in exchange for promotion.

Adventure companies can add variety to your auction. Local tour operators, zipline parks, and outdoor activity centers might offer experiences like hot air balloon rides, whitewater rafting, or guided hiking trips. 

Services like TravelPledge can help nonprofits secure travel-related charity auction items. By connecting charities with generous business owners, TravelPledge provides access to a variety of experiences, including vacations and adventure activities, suitable for auctions and raffles. 

Nonprofits can offer these experiences without upfront costs, making it easier to feature high-value items that attract competitive bids.

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8. Online Marketplaces and Wholesale Retailers

Best for: Discounted brand-name goods, bulk auction items, subscription boxes

Online marketplaces and wholesale retailers can be a useful resource for securing silent auction items. These platforms offer everything from high-end electronics to unique handmade goods, often at discounted rates.

Websites like eBay, Etsy, and Facebook Marketplace are great for finding rare or customized items. Many small business owners on these platforms may be open to donating if you explain how their product will support a nonprofit cause.

Several online marketplaces, such as Liquidation.com and B-Stock Solutions, specialize in selling overstock and liquidation products. 

You can browse and bid on products from a variety of retailers on these sites. Make sure to review the terms and shipping costs when closing a deal to avoid any unexpected issues or fees.

Some large retailers also operate their own liquidation channels, such as Walmart Liquidation Auctions. These platforms provide access to brand-name products at reduced prices.

When using these sources, focus on quality and practicality. A well-curated selection of items will attract more bids and help your nonprofit raise more funds.

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