Website to help charity auctions

A NEW WEBSITE is aiming to help charities raise money through online auctions.

iDonate.ieallows those who want to give money to charity to auction off unwanted gifts and other items, with the proceeds going directly to a nominated organisation.

The site, which was co-founded by Tuam-based businessman Paddy Coyne, has already attracted high-profile items such as a pair of signed boxing gloves from Olympic gold medallist Katie Taylor and a dress donated by Saturdays singer Una Healy.

“Charities see the potential in this, but they don’t necessarily have the items to put up there,” said Mr Coyne.

Sports clubs can also benefit from the fundraising method, and funds can be split between charities and clubs.

“It now gives other voluntary organisations that don’t have any charitable status a huge opportunity to fundraise,” he said.

In addition to auctions, the company also facilitates donating directly to a charity that has registered with iDonate, through an SMS short code, and will set up branded pages integrated into a charity’s site.

Mr Coyne, who has also set up a successful web marketing and design firm, said the platform was set up in consultation with charities.

“We found there were two thing charities wanted. First, to do fundraising on their own website, because there was less chance of the donation being shared or halved with other charities,” he said.

“Secondly, it enhances the brand because people can see what the charity is all about – you’re on their site the whole time.”

The platform has no fixed set-up or monthly fees, he said, instead opting to take a 4 per cent commission from donations to cover charges levied for taking the payments and any VAT that may arise.