100K Ideas adds an element of surprise to local support with ‘Mystery Box’ Auction

FLINT, Michigan — The upcoming ‘Mystery Box’ Auction, hosted by 100K Ideas, is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing events of the new year. Scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM inside the Dryden Building (601 Saginaw St), the event promises to blend creativity, community engagement, and a bit of mystery, all in support of 100K Ideas’ mission to empower local innovation and entrepreneurship.

The concept of a mystery box auction is both simple and thrilling. Attendees will have the opportunity to bid on sealed boxes containing unknown items, adding an element of surprise and excitement to the auction.

According to Community Engagement Coordinator, Vivian Williams, “Attendees of the ‘Mystery Box’ Auction can expect the mystery boxes to contain unique items provided by 100K Ideas’ clients and their Circle of Friends — a network of local vendors and small businesses. While the specific contents of each box remain a surprise until after bidding, the boxes represent the creativity and innovation of local entrepreneurs and businesses.”

Each of the boxes will feature a variety of items that highlight the work, products, or services of its local contributors, making the auction an exciting way to discover and support local talent.   

“The ‘Mystery Box’ Auction supports local entrepreneurs and creatives by showcasing their work to the community, raising funds to provide essential services like design, prototyping, and business support, all while creating opportunities to build connections and grow their ideas,” said Williams. 

The event directly aligns with 100K’s mission to uplift and empower community members, and help innovators move closer to bringing their ideas to market while fostering community engagement and collaboration. 

In planning the ‘Mystery Box’ Auction, Williams drew inspiration from her time at the University of Michigan Flint (UM-Flint).

“This was inspired by me while attending UM-Flint, spurring the idea of providing mystery boxes in the style of an auction! This fundraiser is a great fit for 100K Ideas as it highlights entrepreneurs and raises funds for future clients interested in exploring entrepreneurship,” shared Williams.

This innovative approach not only engages the local community but also reinforces the organization’s dedication to fostering a culture of creativity and curiosity.

The auction is expected to draw a wide range of participants, from longtime supporters of 100K Ideas to first-time attendees. Williams highlights the community’s enthusiastic response to similar events in the past, showcasing how the ‘Mystery Box’ Auction is set to continue that tradition while offering new surprises.

“This is our third year hosting the ‘Mystery Box’ Auction. Bidders have walked away happy, excited, and our past attendees have posted on social media highlighting the businesses they bid on boxes from,” said Williams. “Bidders will not know what is included in the box they are bidding on, just the name of the company or vendor who provided the items. After bidding is complete, the items of each box will be revealed.” 

Williams also shared that the event features collaborations with notable participants and sponsors like The Roman, Gansik, and Factory Two. 

Ultimately, the ‘Mystery Box’ Auction is about more than just the items inside the boxes. It’s an experience designed to inspire and connect people while celebrating the creativity that defines the local community.

As Williams notes, “Beyond the excitement of winning mystery boxes, the event aims to inspire attendees by showcasing the creativity and talent of local entrepreneurs and small businesses. It highlights the innovative spirit in the community and fosters an appreciation for supporting local ideas and ventures.”

Attendees are encouraged to feel more connected to Flint’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and motivated to engage with and support these growing businesses in meaningful ways.

To learn more about the ‘Mystery Auction’ Auction and to purchase tickets, visit: 100kideas.org/events