What's going on...

As we move into the last part of 2025, charities and fundraising platforms face both opportunity and disruption. The giving landscape is more competitive, donor expectations more exacting and technology is redefining how we raise, steward and scale support. For us at BIDAID, staying ahead means understanding not just what’s happening now, but anticipating how behaviours, tools and the global environment will shift next.

Below are some defining trends shaping charity auctions, events and fundraising in 2025

1. Charity Auctions and Silent Auctions as Cornerstones of Fundraising

In-person and online auctions continue to be a key revenue driver for charities globally. Silent auctions, in particular, provide a low-pressure, engaging way for supporters to give while participating in an event.

In 2025, hybrid auction models combining in-person events with online bidding have grown in popularity, allowing supporters to participate regardless of location.

Silent auctions are also evolving with digital bidding tools, allowing instant updates, automatic bid increments and real-time notifications, creating a more interactive experience.

BIDAID has enabled numerous charities to run silent auctions that reach supporters anywhere in the world. Features like mobile bidding help maximise engagement and revenue.

As we look into 2026, we expect even more immersive auction experiences, integrating live streaming and gamification elements. BIDAID is creating solutions that let charities deliver these modern fundraising experiences seamlessly.

2. Mobile-first Bidding and Event Integration

Donors now expect smooth, mobile-native experiences for bidding and donations, especially at charity events. QR codes at gala dinners, event tablets and mobile apps for live and silent auctions have become table stakes.

Mobile bidding ensures attendees can participate instantly without missing out on key lots.

BIDAID’s mobile-first platform allows charities to run events where every guest can bid from their phone, whether in the room or at home. Our technology has powered record-breaking auctions with hundreds of mobile participants simultaneously.

For 2026, frictionless mobile experiences will dominate charity events. 

3. Data-driven Personalisation for Auction and Event Engagement

Understanding donor behaviour is critical in competitive fundraising. Analytics can identify high-value bidders, optimise lot placement and personalise appeals.

At BIDAID, we provide charities with actionable analytics, showing which lots generate the most interest, predicting high-value bidders and enabling tailored communications. 

Blending Events with Impact Storytelling

Successful fundraising events combine live experiences with storytelling about impact. Donors want to see tangible outcomes of their generosity.

• Auction items tied to experiences — like celebrity meet-and-greets or exclusive trips — resonate because they provide both engagement and meaning.
• Digital displays during live events can showcase how bids and donations directly contribute to the cause.

For 2026, we expect even more immersive storytelling, including live video updates from the impact dashboards at events and interactive displays linking bids to measurable outcomes.

Transparency and Trust in Event Fundraising

Donors increasingly expect clarity on how their money is used. Auction and event platforms must ensure transparency to maintain confidence.

Event organisers can build stronger relationships by providing personalised post-event feedback.

As our founder Jamie Baulch explains:

“Effective fundraising is not about simply collecting donations — it’s about creating experiences, trust and shared purpose. Charity auctions, events and silent auctions allow donors to engage, compete and connect with the cause in a tangible way. The platforms that make giving exciting, easy and transparent will define the future of philanthropy.”

BIDAID’s mission is to empower charities to run seamless auctions and fundraising events that maximise reach, engagement and impact, creating modern solutions that redefine what’s possible in fundraising.

Monday, 3rd November 2025