Boost Your Event Revenue with a Paddle Raise: Here’s How
Imagine this: your guests have just heard a moving story about someone your nonprofit has helped. The room is quiet for a moment—and then hands begin to rise. One by one, donors step up, not to win an item, but to support your mission directly. That’s the power of a paddle raise.
Also known as a fund-a-need or mission moment, the paddle raise is one of the most effective and accessible ways to increase revenue at any fundraising auction. It doesn’t rely on luxury trips or high-value packages—it taps into your supporters’ generosity and emotional connection to your cause.
Here’s what a paddle raise is, why it works, and how to do it right.
What Is a Paddle Raise?
A paddle raise is a direct appeal for donations made during a live event. Rather than bidding on items, attendees are asked to give specific amounts to support your mission. Donors raise their bid paddles—or click a button in virtual formats—to indicate their pledge.
This segment usually follows an inspiring story, video, or short speech, and is facilitated by a professional auctioneer or emcee who calls out giving levels and acknowledges each donor.
Why It’s So Powerful:
- No inventory required—just a compelling mission
- Inclusive for all donors, regardless of budget
- Emotional giving often leads to higher contributions
- Quick and effective, often raising more than the auction itself
How to Plan a Successful Paddle Raise
1. Craft a Compelling Story
The most important ingredient in a paddle raise is the story you tell. This is your chance to connect the audience to your mission in a personal, emotional way.
What Works Best:
- A video or live testimonial from someone your organization has helped
- A passionate speech from a staff member, volunteer, or beneficiary
- Clear, relatable impact examples (e.g., “$250 provides meals for 10 families”)
2. Time It Strategically
The paddle raise should occur at a moment of peak engagement—when guests are emotionally connected and before fatigue sets in.
Ideal Timing:
- After dinner but before any long speeches or entertainment
- Right after a mission-driven video or story
- Before the live auction’s highest energy peak
3. Use a Professional Auctioneer
A skilled fundraising auctioneer can make or break your paddle raise. They know how to read the room, build excitement, and keep the momentum going from high-level gifts to smaller donations.
Why It Matters:
- They set the right pace
- They make donors feel acknowledged and appreciated
- They help avoid awkward pauses or momentum loss
4. Offer Multiple Giving Levels
Structure your appeal with a range of giving options so everyone feels they can participate. Start high and work down, recognizing each level before moving to the next.
Example Sequence:
- $10,000 – “Raise your paddle to underwrite an entire program.”
- $5,000 – “Sponsor a year of services for a family in need.”
- $1,000 – “Fund a full scholarship or emergency grant.”
- $500 – “Support a week’s worth of essential care.”
- $100 – “Provide supplies for a classroom or shelter.”
- Open call – “Give what feels meaningful to you.”
Tip: Prepare donation impact statements for each level to make the giving feel tangible and purposeful.
5. Make Giving Easy
Ensure donors know how to give, whether it’s raising a paddle, writing a check, or donating via mobile platform. Clear instructions and visible prompts (on screens or printed materials) go a long way.
What to Include:
- Donation cards on each table
- Mobile bidding platform instructions
- A volunteer or staff member at each table to assist if needed
6. Acknowledge Every Donor
Recognition builds momentum. Whether it’s applause, a thank-you from the stage, or a name on the screen, acknowledging donors in real time shows gratitude and encourages others to follow.
Best Practices:
- Acknowledge by name if possible
- Keep energy high and celebratory
- Avoid awkward pauses or overly long breaks between donors
7. Follow Up with Impact
After the event, let donors know what their gifts accomplished. This helps with donor retention and sets the stage for future giving.
How to Follow Up:
- Send personalized thank-you emails or letters
- Share impact updates or stories in newsletters
- Invite paddle raise donors to exclusive events or updates
Final Thoughts: Big Impact Without Big Items
A paddle raise allows you to cut through the noise of prizes and competition and focus on what matters most—your mission. It’s a rare moment where donors give not to win, but to make a difference. And for many events, it’s the single most profitable segment of the evening.
At the Fundraising Auction Team, we’ve seen the transformative impact a well-run paddle raise can have. Whether you’re hosting a black-tie gala or a community fundraiser, we’ll help you craft the right story, set the right levels, and execute with heart and precision.
Want to maximize your paddle raise? Contact us today to learn how we can help you inspire generosity and exceed your fundraising goals.