The Whole Package: Behind the Bid Chicago

Impact House|

September 17, 2026

8:30 am - 12:30 pm (EST)

A half-day, CFRE-accredited masterclass focused on the strategy, structure, and moments that define high-performing fundraising events

From event design and donor engagement to emerging trends and interactive experiences, this half-day workshop is packed with practical ideas to help you plan smarter, engage supporters, and create fundraising events that perform.

Join nonprofit professionals from across the Chicago area for an energizing morning of expert-led education, interactive experiences, and meaningful networking with peers who share your passion for event fundraising.

Limited seating available.

Early pricing through August 12 – $69 Registration (Regular Price $129)

Course Curriculum:

8:30 – 9:15 AM: BREAKFAST

Kick things off with breakfast and conversation. Connect with fellow fundraisers, share ideas, and get ready for a high-impact morning.

9:15 – 9:55 AM: AUCTION SUCCESS FRAMEWORK

Title:
The Auction Success Framework: Five Strategies to Drive Attendance, Revenue, and Donor Loyalty

Speakers:
Kevin Spykerman, Director of Fundraising, Auction Packages

Course Description:
Explore a practical framework for maximizing auction performance across the entire event lifecycle. From curating the right mix of auction items and leveraging experiences to drive attendance, to optimizing package presentation, creating momentum during the live auction, and strengthening stewardship after the event, attendees will learn how each stage contributes to stronger fundraising results.

Key Takeaways:

Curate auction portfolios aligned with donor interests, fundraising priorities, and revenue goals.
Increase attendance and donor engagement through strategically selected auction experiences.
Position auction items to inspire competitive bidding and maximize fundraising revenue
Leverage auctioneers, program flow, and event timing to elevate participation and fundraising results
Strengthen donor relationships through post-event stewardship and exceptional winner experiences

10:00 – 10:40 AM: PLAN. FLOW. WOW.

Title:
Plan, Flow, Wow: A Masterclass in Revenue-Driving Event Design

Speaker:
Kalsey Beach, Founder & President, Do Good Events

Course Description:
Discover how to design events that inspire generosity and deliver measurable results. From pre-event strategy to post-event impact, this session breaks down the art and science of creating fundraising experiences that captivate donors and drive dollars.

Key Takeaways:

Discover how thoughtful planning and storytelling elevate your event’s purpose and profitability
Explore proven strategies to enhance flow, keeping guests engaged from first impression to final bid
Learn practical revenue-focused best practices for auctions, fund-a-need moments, and program pacing
Gain insights into emerging trends shaping modern fundraising events
Walk away with actionable tools and inspiration to “wow” your supporters at every stage

10:50 – 11:10 AM: HEADS OR TAILS

Title:
Heads or Tails: An Interactive Game Break

Master of Fun:
Keith Jones, President, Sayer & Jones Auctioneers

Course Description:
Take a break from traditional sessions and experience one of the most popular fundraising event games from your donors’ perspective. By stepping into their shoes, you’ll gain a fresh appreciation for what makes event activities fun, engaging, and memorable, along with ideas you can bring back to your own events.

11:15 – 12:15 PM: PANEL DISCUSSION

Title:
The Future of Event Fundraising

Moderator:
Nicole Clark, Enterprise Account Executive, OneCause

Panelists:
Dana McFadden, Fundraising Specialist, Auction Packages

Tracy Gaal-Smith, Manager of Foundation Event Logistics, Ascension Healthcare Foundation

Course Description:
Explore the trends, technologies, and donor engagement strategies shaping the future of nonprofit fundraising events, with insights from industry experts on how to stay ahead of what’s next.

Key Takeaways: