Fred Northup, Jr.
Founder & President
Fred Northup, Jr. is a nationally recognized fundraising auctioneer, corporate emcee, and comedy improviser who has built a career out of helping people say “yes.”
As the founder of Northup Fundraising, Fred and his team of professional auctioneers and consultants host more than 150 events each year, raising over $50 million annually for nonprofits across the country. From local galas to nationally recognized events, Fred has partnered with organizations like the American Cancer Society, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Los Cabos Children's Foundation (San Jose del Cabo), Pacific Northwest Ballet, ZACH Theatre (Austin), Woodland Park Zoo, and the Auction of Washington Wines. His specialty is making generosity feel joyful — inspiring guests to give not out of obligation, but out of excitement.
Fred is also a trusted corporate emcee, known for his quick wit, warmth, and professionalism. He has entertained audiences at major events for Microsoft, UMB Bank, Starbucks, Amazon, Turner Broadcasting, Boeing, Zillow, Expedia, BECU, New York Life, and many more. Whether he’s energizing a ballroom of 1,500 donors or hosting a Fortune 500 conference, Fred brings humor, authenticity, and polish to every stage.
Before launching his career as an emcee and auctioneer, Fred spent 10 years as a company member of Seattle’s famed TheatreSports improv group, honing the listening and storytelling skills that now define his style. He’s also appeared on NBC’s The [206] and Up Late NW, hosted national projects for Microsoft and Xbox, and was once known as “Captain Fred McGilicutty,” the hilarious national spokesperson for Copper Mountain Ski Resort.
When he’s not on stage, Fred is the co-inventor of RainGlobes® (the globe that rains!) and once played percussion for the Grammy-nominated kids’ band Caspar Babypants, making him briefly famous among the preschool crowd. He lives in Seattle with his wife, Ashley, and their two teenagers.
Whether you’re planning a nonprofit gala or a corporate conference, Fred’s mix of professionalism, humor, and heart will make your event unforgettable.