AFP ICON Conference 2026

The Fundraising Event Playbook Nobody Hands You

Most nonprofit professionals inherit a fundraising event, receive a folder of documents from the previous committee, and are told, "This is how we've always done it." But what if that's exactly what's holding your event back? In this episode of Auction is Action, Bobby D. sits down with fundraising event strategist Beth Sandefur to discuss the fundraising event playbook nobody hands you. Together, they explore why so many galas become stagnant, how successful organizations continuously evolve their events, and the difference between simply planning an event and intentionally designing an experience. You'll discover: * Why "the way we've always done it" can be dangerous * How to identify revenue leaks that cost nonprofits thousands * The importance of designing a donor experience, not just managing logistics * Why smaller, more intentional events often outperform larger galas * How to maximize sponsorships, auctions, and paddle raises * The systems, templates, and tools that separate great events from average ones * Why the paddle raise may be the most overlooked fundraising opportunity in your event Whether you're planning a gala, auction, luncheon, golf tournament, or special event, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help you save time, reduce stress, engage donors, and raise more money. Because great fundraising events don't happen by accident. They happen by design. galatoolbox.com [http://galatoolbox.com/]   Recieve a 25% coupon code, use: Action Recommended For Nonprofit leaders Development directors Board members Event planners Fundraising committees School, hospital, and foundation galas

Free Isn't Free: The Hidden Cost of Bargain Auctioneers

In this episode of Auction Is Action, Bobby D. tackles one of the most common—and costly—mistakes nonprofits make when planning a fundraising gala: hiring the "free" auctioneer. At first glance, saving a few thousand dollars on an auctioneer fee sounds like a smart financial decision. But what if that decision costs your organization tens of thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—in missed fundraising revenue? Bobby breaks down the true role of a professional fundraising auctioneer, why fundraising events are unlike any other speaking engagement, and how the right auctioneer can dramatically increase donor participation, paddle raise revenue, live auction performance, and overall event energy. You'll learn why an auctioneer isn't an expense on your budget—it's one of the most important investments in your event's success. Whether you're a development director, executive director, board member, or gala committee volunteer, this episode will help you understand the hidden cost of bargain auctioneers and why free isn't always the best value. Because when it comes to fundraising, the cheapest option can end up being the most expensive. This episode is perfect for nonprofit leaders looking to maximize revenue, elevate the guest experience, and unlock the full fundraising potential of their gala. Recommended For Nonprofit leaders Development directors Board members Event planners Fundraising committees School, hospital, and foundation galas

Dessert Dash Done Right: Energy, Competition, and Revenue

What if one of the most profitable moments at your gala wasn’t your live auction… but dessert? In this episode of Auction Is Action, Bobby D. breaks down the Dessert Dash — the fast-paced, high-energy fundraising game that creates excitement, table competition, and unexpected revenue in just minutes. You’ll learn: • How a Dessert Dash works step-by-step • Why it activates group psychology and donor momentum • How to structure the game for maximum participation • Common mistakes nonprofits make • Tips to increase energy, bidding, and guest engagement • How to turn desserts into a memorable fundraising experience Whether you’re planning a school gala, nonprofit fundraiser, golf event, or community celebration, the Dessert Dash is a simple addition that can create a massive impact. Auction Is Action with Bobby D. — helping nonprofits raise more money, create unforgettable events, and inspire radical generosity. Recommended For Nonprofit leaders Development directors Board members Event planners Fundraising committees School, hospital, and foundation galas

The Smartest Gala Sponsorship Most Nonprofits Aren’t Using

What if your auctioneer fee wasn’t viewed as an expense… but as a sponsorship opportunity with massive ROI potential? In this episode of Auction is Action, billion-dollar fundraiser, event strategist, professional fundraising auctioneer, auctioneer coach, and industry thought leader Bobby D. breaks down one of the smartest strategies nonprofits can use to protect their event budget while creating meaningful sponsor visibility. Learn how to secure an “Auctioneer Sponsorship” — a high-impact partnership where a business or donor covers the cost of your professional auctioneer in exchange for premium recognition throughout the event. Bobby shares why this strategy works, how to position the ask, what sponsors actually value, and the exact steps nonprofits can take to fund their auctioneer before the first paddle is ever raised. If you want stronger sponsorship conversations, healthier event budgets, and a smarter way to think about fundraising investments, this episode is for you. Recommended For Nonprofit leaders Development directors Board members Event planners Fundraising committees School, hospital, and foundation galas

AFP ICON Conference 2026

Recommended For Nonprofit leaders Development directors Board members Event planners Fundraising committees School, hospital, and foundation galas