Fundraising Events: Digital Fundraising Minus the Distraction

Digital fundraising has revolutionized how we give. We can donate to a great cause, or make a bid at a silent auction at the touch of a button. And, we can do this 24 hours a day from almost any location around the world!

While digital technology has made giving more interactive, fun, and engaging - fundraisers may struggle to keep fundraising event guests from getting distracted by their device.

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A Digital Dilemma

Keeping event guests focused can be a challenge—especially with mobile phones constantly demanding attention. For fundraisers, it can be tough to keep people engaged during an event when they're distracted by social media, texting, or checking notifications.

This is even more tricky when digital fundraising tools, like mobile bidding for silent auctions, mean phone engagement is an intrinsic part of the event.

While digital fundraising tools make it easier for guests to donate and bid on items, they also give people another reason to be glued to their phones—potentially pulling their attention away from the event’s main message.

So, how can fundraisers encourage guests to use their phones for bidding, while still keeping them engaged with the cause? Let’s explore some strategies to strike the right balance:

Mobile Magic!

Firstlly, it’s worth understanding why mobile devices have become a key part of fundraising events.

For a start, they make things easier, faster, and more interactive. Take silent auctions, instead of hovering over the auction table, guests can place bids directly from their phones—anytime and anywhere in the room. This adds an exciting element of competition and keeps people engaged without disrupting the flow of the event.

Mobile devices also make donating simpler. With apps or text-to-donate options, guests can contribute with just a few taps. This convenience often leads to more donations, as it removes the barriers to giving. Plus, real-time donation trackers and instant updates keep everyone in the loop and create a sense of excitement throughout the event.

While it's true that phones can be a distraction, their role in enhancing the fundraising experience can't be ignored. Here are some of the ways digital fundraising platforms boost engagement:

Mobile Bidding for Silent Auctions: Guests can easily place bids from anywhere in the venue, increasing participation and creating excitement as bids come in live.

Text-to-Donate: Allowing attendees to donate via SMS or an app makes giving quick and easy, encouraging spontaneous contributions throughout the event.

Real-Time Donation Tracking: Displaying live donation updates on screens or through fundraising apps helps create a sense of progress and friendly competition, motivating guests to give more.

Event Updates and Reminders: Push notifications or text messages can keep guests informed about key moments—like when the auction closes or when special announcements are made—helping them stay engaged with the event’s schedule.

Event Engagement Games or Challenges: Using event apps, guests can participate in fun games or challenges that tie back to the cause, earning rewards or points while staying engaged with the mission.

Easy Check-In and Ticketing: Mobile devices can streamline check-in with digital tickets or QR codes, reducing wait times and allowing guests to focus on the event rather than logistics.

Mobile devices are indispensable when it comes to boosting event giving, guest experiences,  and event engagement. The trick for event organizers is to use mobile technology in a way that encourages participation while still keeping guests focused on the cause.

But rather than banishing devices, the key is to harness their capabilities to enhance engagement and participation.

Striking the Right Balance

While mobile phones are great tools for driving engagement at fundraising events, there are definitely times when it's important for guests to put them down and focus on the cause.

For event organizers, the challenge is finding the right balance—encouraging guests to use their phones when it matters, but also helping them stay present during key moments:

1. Create Dedicated ‘Phone-Free’ Moments

Designate specific times during the event when phones should be put away. For example, during speeches, presentations, or when a special guest is speaking, encourage attendees to be fully present. A gentle reminder or a fun announcement asking everyone to "put their phones down for a few minutes" can help everyone refocus.

Coldplay recently did this as part of their world tour. They asked everyone to put their phones away for the song A Sky Full of Stars -  it created a memorable experience where everyone pocketed their devices and simply enjoyed the moment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mywBbo5hdnY

2. Make It Part of the Event’s Atmosphere

Build anticipation for key moments by setting the tone early on. If there’s a live auction or a major announcement coming up, let guests know in advance so they can “power down” and stay tuned. Use the event's app or signage to create excitement and remind people that these moments are worth paying attention to without distractions.

3. Engage Guests with Interactive Elements

Before or after major segments, encourage guests to engage with mobile bidding, donation trackers, or live polls. When people know there’s something interactive to do, they’re less likely to drift into distracting behaviors. You can even gamify the event by offering small rewards or recognition for those who stay engaged during phone-free moments.

4. Use Visual Cues to Keep Focus

Instead of just relying on verbal reminders, incorporate visual cues to signal when it’s time to focus. For example, when a guest speaker is about to take the stage, have the lights dim or display a message on the screens to indicate that it’s time to pay attention. This can help guests associate the visual cue with a time to tune in.

5. Leverage the Emcee or Host

The event’s emcee or host plays a big role in guiding the audience’s attention. A skilled host can weave in moments where the crowd is encouraged to put phones down and focus on the cause. They can also create fun, lighthearted moments of connection where guests are reminded of the importance of staying present.

6. Use push-notifications and alerts carefully

Avoid overwhelming attendees with too many alerts. Focus on sending notifications that genuinely add value or direct attention to key parts of the event.

In Summary

By creating designated phone-free moments, engaging guests with interactive elements, and making the event more immersive, you can help guests stay present and focused on the cause when it matters most—while still benefiting from the power of mobile technology throughout the event. The key is to strike that balance and make sure the cause is always at the center of attention!

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