New data from fundraising consulting firm Raising Paddles reveals that non-profit galas have demonstrated resilience in the current economic climate, with overall revenues increasing 14% from 2022 through 2025 despite concerns about reduced government funding and donor giving. The analysis, drawn from 800 non-profit gala events, provides crucial insights for the charitable sector navigating challenging fundraising conditions.
The data shows that while revenue per attendee declined by 4.7% in 2025 compared to 2024, overall gala revenues increased due to higher attendance numbers. In 2024, galas averaged $429,183 in revenue with 330 attendees, while 2025 figures through September show averages of $433,227 with 348 attendees. This represents a modest but significant increase in both revenue and participation despite economic headwinds.
Attendance at these events has grown 6% since 2022, while giving per attendee has increased 8.7% over the same period, though both metrics show a slight year-over-year decline from 2024 to 2025. The overall 9% attendance increase and 14% revenue growth across the three-year period suggests that non-profits are successfully adapting their fundraising strategies to maintain financial support.
The analysis specifically examined events where professional fundraising auctioneers were utilized, excluding events that used emcees, local personalities, or non-professional auctioneers. According to Raising Paddles, the use of professional fundraising services has been a key factor in maintaining revenue growth. The company provides consulting services to help non-profits identify and optimize fundraising opportunities that might otherwise be overlooked.
Another significant factor contributing to the positive results has been the generosity of key donors who have stepped up to fill funding gaps created by reduced government support and other traditional revenue sources. This demonstrates the importance of cultivating strong donor relationships, particularly during challenging economic periods when additional support may be necessary.
The findings are particularly relevant for non-profit organizations concerned about the impact of economic uncertainty and changing donor behavior. The data suggests that professional fundraising strategies and strong donor relationships can help offset declines in traditional funding sources. For more information about fundraising analytics and strategies, visit https://www.raisingpaddles.com.
Raising Paddles has supported over 1,000 non-profit organizations with consulting, education, and on-stage performances, helping raise nearly $500 million for their clients. The current data provides valuable benchmarking information for non-profits planning their fundraising strategies in an increasingly challenging economic environment.
