What Is a Virtual Fundraiser? 60+ Creative Ideas & Expert Tips (2025) 🎉

Imagine rallying thousands of supporters from every corner of the globe—all without leaving your living room. Sounds like magic, right? Welcome to the world of virtual fundraisers, where technology meets philanthropy to create powerful, engaging, and boundary-breaking events. Whether you’re a nonprofit veteran or a first-time organizer, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about virtual fundraising—from the basics and history to over 60 innovative event ideas, expert planning tips, and real success stories that prove virtual events can raise serious money.

Did you know that virtual fundraising events can reduce costs by up to 70% compared to traditional galas while reaching exponentially larger audiences? But here’s the catch: pulling off a memorable virtual fundraiser takes more than just flipping on a webcam. Stick around, and we’ll reveal the secret ingredients to keep donors engaged, choose the right platforms like OneCause or Givebutter, and measure your event’s success with data-driven insights. Ready to transform your fundraising game in 2025? Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

  • Virtual fundraisers are online events designed to raise money globally, offering flexibility and cost savings over traditional events.
  • Success hinges on compelling storytelling, user-friendly platforms, and interactive engagement techniques like live polls and auctions.
  • Over 60 creative virtual fundraising ideas—from walkathons to virtual galas—can inspire your next campaign.
  • Choosing the right tools (OneCause, Funraise, Givebutter) and planning carefully with clear goals are essential for winning big.
  • Post-event follow-up and data analysis turn one-time donors into lifelong supporters and improve future events.

Table of Contents

Here is the body of the article, written according to your instructions.

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Virtual Fundraisers

Welcome to the future of fundraising! Before we dive deep, let’s get our heart rates up with some quick, digestible facts and tips. Think of this as your warm-up lap!

  • What’s the big deal? A virtual fundraiser is any fundraising activity or event conducted entirely online. It’s your classic fundraiser, just without the stuffy event hall and questionable hors d’oeuvres.
  • Global Reach, Local Impact: The biggest advantage? You can reach supporters from across the globe, not just those who can physically attend. As Funraise points out, “Online fundraising lets you connect with a much wider audience, anywhere and at any time.” 🌍
  • Cost-Effective Champion: Virtual events often have significantly lower overhead costs compared to in-person galas. No venue rental, catering, or physical decorations mean more of the money raised goes directly to your cause.
  • Tech is Your Teammate: Success hinges on the right technology. Platforms like OneCause, Funraise, and Givebutter are the digital venues that make it all happen.
  • Engagement is Everything: The challenge isn’t getting people to log on; it’s keeping them there! Interactivity is key. Think live polls, Q&A sessions, and gamification.
  • Data-Driven Decisions: Digital platforms provide a treasure trove of data. You can track donor behavior, see what’s working, and refine your strategy for next time. 📊
  • Hybrid is the New Hotness: Many organizations are now blending physical and virtual elements into “hybrid” events, offering the best of both worlds.

🌟 Virtual Fundraising Unveiled: What Exactly Is a Virtual Fundraiser?

Video: How to Host a Successful Virtual Fundraiser.

So, what’s all the buzz about? At its core, a virtual fundraiser is an online event or campaign designed to raise money for a specific cause, charity, or organization. Instead of gathering in a physical space, you and your supporters connect through the magic of the internet. Here at Walkathon Virtual™, we live and breathe this stuff; our entire model is built on the power of virtual connection for a good cause. If you’re curious about the specifics of our favorite type of event, you should check out our expert guide on How Do You Do a Virtual Walk Fundraiser? 10 Expert Tips for 2025 🚶 ♂️.

Think of it like this: an in-person fundraiser is like a blockbuster movie you have to see in a specific theater at a specific time. A virtual fundraiser is like Netflix—your supporters can engage from their couch, in their PJs, at a time that works for them. This flexibility is a game-changer.

These events leverage digital tools to create an engaging experience, solicit donations, and build community, all without geographical limitations. They can be as simple as a 24-hour social media giving day or as elaborate as a fully produced, live-streamed gala with celebrity guests and online auctions.

📜 The Evolution of Fundraising: From Bake Sales to Virtual Galas

Video: How to properly produce a virtual fundraiser!

Remember the good old days? Fundraising meant bake sales with questionable brownies, car washes with enthusiastic but clumsy volunteers, and gala dinners with rubber chicken on the menu. They were charming, effective, and deeply rooted in local community.

Then, the internet happened. 💥

Slowly at first, fundraising began to dip its toes into the digital waters with simple “Donate Now” buttons on websites. Then came crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe, which revolutionized how individuals could raise money for personal causes. Nonprofits saw the potential and started launching their own crowdfunding-style campaigns.

The real tipping point, however, was the global pandemic in 2020. Suddenly, in-person events were impossible. Nonprofits faced a choice: adapt or face financial crisis. And adapt they did! The industry leaped forward, embracing technology and creativity at an unprecedented rate. Virtual galas, online auctions, and virtual 5Ks became the norm, not the exception. What started as a necessity has now become a powerful, permanent part of the fundraising landscape, offering unparalleled reach and efficiency.

🎯 Core Elements of Successful Virtual Fundraising Events

Video: Top ten virtual fundraising ideas.

Ready to build your own virtual fundraising champion? Every successful event, no matter the format, is built on a few core pillars. Get these right, and you’re already halfway to the finish line.

  1. A Compelling Story: Why should someone donate? Your mission needs to be front and center. Use powerful storytelling—videos, testimonials, and live speakers—to connect emotionally with your audience. This isn’t just about raising money; it’s about inviting people to be part of a solution.
  2. A User-Friendly Platform: This is your virtual venue. It needs to be reliable, easy to navigate for donors, and simple for your team to manage. A clunky, confusing platform is the digital equivalent of a venue with no parking and leaky pipes.
  3. A Multi-Channel Promotion Strategy: You can’t just build it and hope they will come. A robust Event Promotion plan using email, social media, partnerships, and even traditional media is crucial to get the word out.
  4. Engaging & Interactive Content: This is the secret sauce! Virtual attention spans are short. You need to keep your audience hooked with interactive elements like:
    • Live polls and Q&As
    • Gamification (leaderboards, fundraising thermometers)
    • Breakout rooms for smaller discussions
    • Live entertainment or special guest appearances
  5. A Clear Call-to-Action (CTA): Don’t be shy! Throughout your event, you need to clearly, creatively, and repeatedly ask for donations. Make the donation process as simple as possible—a big, obvious “Donate Now” button is your best friend.
  6. Rock-Solid Follow-Up: The event isn’t over when the live stream ends. Promptly thank every single donor. Share the results of the campaign. Keep your new supporters engaged and show them the impact of their generosity. This turns a one-time donor into a lifelong supporter.

🛠️ Top Tools and Platforms Powering Virtual Fundraisers

Video: How To: Create Your Virtual Fundraiser.

Choosing your tech stack is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. Your fundraising platform is your command center, your virtual stage, and your donation processor all in one. Here’s a look at some of the heavy hitters in the game.

All-in-One Fundraising Suites

These platforms are the Swiss Army knives of virtual fundraising, offering everything from event ticketing and live streaming to mobile bidding and donor management.

Feature OneCause Funraise Givebutter
Best For Robust Galas & Auctions Modern, Donor-Focused Campaigns Free, All-in-One Solution
Key Features Mobile Bidding, Live Stream Integration, Event Management, Text-to-Donate Customizable Donation Forms, Peer-to-Peer Tools, CRM Integration Free Platform (donor-tipped), Auctions, Ticketing, P2P
Ease of Use Professional, feature-rich Sleek, user-friendly interface Extremely intuitive and easy
Our Take ✅ A powerhouse for large, complex events. ✅ Excellent for creating beautiful, branded campaign pages. ✅ The best starting point for organizations on a tight budget.

Peer-to-Peer & Crowdfunding Platforms

These tools empower your supporters to become fundraisers themselves, tapping into their personal networks.

  • GoFundMe Charity: A well-known name with a dedicated platform for nonprofits. It leverages the massive user base and brand recognition of its parent company.
  • Classy: A comprehensive and highly-regarded platform known for its beautiful design and powerful peer-to-peer fundraising capabilities.
  • DonorDrive: A favorite for virtual athletic events (like walkathons!), with strong gamification features and integrations with streaming platforms like Twitch.

Essential Supporting Tools

Don’t forget the other gear you’ll need!

  • Streaming Software: For high-quality live streams, you’ll need tools like Zoom, StreamYard, or OBS Studio.
  • Email Marketing: Platforms like Mailchimp or Constant Contact are essential for promoting your event and following up with donors.
  • Graphic Design: Create stunning visuals for your campaign with user-friendly tools like Canva.

👉 Shop Fundraising Platforms on:

🚀 Planning Your Virtual Fundraiser: 8 Essential Steps to Win Big

Video: 10 Sites to Find Donations and Donors | Nonprofit Fundraising.

Alright, team, let’s get tactical! A successful event doesn’t just happen; it’s the result of meticulous planning. We’ve adapted the fantastic 8-step framework from our friends at OneCause and added our own Walkathon Virtual™ training secrets.

Step 1: Evaluate Your Game Plan (Pros & Cons)

Before you start, do a quick self-assessment. Are you ready for a virtual event?

  • ✅ Pros: Wider reach, lower costs, valuable data.
  • ❌ Cons: Requires new tech, can be harder to keep audiences engaged, potential for technical glitches. Be honest about your team’s tech-savviness and resources.

Step 2: Set Your Finish Line (Budget & Goals)

What does success look like? Define clear, measurable goals.

  • Financial Goals: How much do you need to raise? Be specific.
  • Performance Goals: How many attendees do you want? How many new donors do you hope to acquire? How much social media engagement are you aiming for?
  • Budget: Create a realistic budget. While cheaper than in-person events, you’ll still have costs for platforms, marketing, and any entertainment.

Step 3: Build Your Toolkit

This is where you choose your weapons! Based on your goals and budget, select your fundraising platform, streaming software, and marketing tools. Do not skimp here! Investing in reliable tech is the best insurance policy against a disastrous event.

Step 4: Assemble Your Dream Team

You can’t do it all alone. Designate clear roles and responsibilities.

  • Tech Guru: Manages the platform and live stream.
  • Marketing Maestro: Handles all promotion and communication.
  • Sponsorship Star: Secures corporate partners.
  • Engagement Expert: Manages the chat, polls, and Q&A during the event.
  • Showrunner: The overall project manager who keeps everything on track.

Step 5: Shout It from the Rooftops (Promotion!)

Start your promotion early and use a multi-channel approach.

  • Email: Segment your lists and send targeted invitations.
  • Social Media: Create a compelling campaign with a unique hashtag. Use videos, countdowns, and behind-the-scenes content.
  • Partnerships: Leverage sponsors, board members, and volunteers to spread the word to their networks.

Step 6: Go Live! (Launch Your Event)

It’s showtime! Have a detailed run-of-show document outlining every minute of the event.

  • Do a tech rehearsal! Then do another one. Test everything.
  • Have a dedicated tech support person ready to help attendees who are having trouble.
  • Keep the energy high! Your on-camera hosts are crucial.

Step 7: The Grand Finale (Wrap Up)

End your event with a bang! Announce your fundraising totals, thank everyone profusely, and have a clear final call to action. Use your software to automatically close out auctions and process payments.

Step 8: The Victory Lap (Follow-Up)

The work isn’t done! This is arguably the most important step for donor retention.

  • Thank You’s: Send immediate, personalized thank-you messages to every donor, attendee, and sponsor.
  • Analyze Data: Dive into the analytics. What worked? What didn’t?
  • Share Impact: A week or two later, send a follow-up report showing the impact of the funds raised. This closes the loop and makes donors feel great about their contribution.

🎉 60+ Creative Virtual Fundraising Event Ideas to Inspire Your Next Campaign

Video: How to host a virtual event: Tips for the most profitable events online.

Feeling stuck in a creative rut? Don’t sweat it! The virtual world is your oyster. We’ve brainstormed over 60 ideas to get your creative juices flowing. For even more inspiration, check out our dedicated category for Fundraising Ideas.

Active & Wellness-Focused 🏃 ♀️

  1. Virtual Walkathon/5K/10K: Our personal favorite! Participants track their miles using apps like Strava and fundraise through peer-to-peer pages.
  2. Online Yoga or Meditation-a-Thon: Host a day of wellness sessions led by local instructors.
  3. Virtual Dance Party: Hire a DJ to spin tunes on a live stream. Sell tickets and have dance-offs.
  4. Online Fitness Challenge: A week-long challenge with daily workout videos and health tips.
  5. Virtual Field Day: Coordinate silly at-home challenges like a sock toss or a living room obstacle course.

Arts & Culture 🎨

  1. Virtual Concert: Feature local bands or musicians in a live-streamed performance.
  2. Online Art Auction: Auction off donated pieces from local artists.
  3. Virtual Paint & Sip Night: Mail kits with supplies to participants and have an instructor lead a class on Zoom.
  4. Online Open Mic Night: Showcase local poets, comedians, and storytellers.
  5. Virtual Museum Tour: Partner with a local museum for an exclusive guided tour.
  6. Digital Cookbook Sale: Compile recipes from your community and sell it as a PDF.
  7. Online Film Screening & Q&A: Host a viewing party for a mission-related documentary.

Food & Drink 🍷

  1. Virtual Cooking Class: Partner with a local chef to teach a signature dish.
  2. Online Wine or Beer Tasting: Send tasting kits to attendees and have a sommelier or brewer guide the experience.
  3. Virtual Happy Hour: A simple and fun way to connect with donors.
  4. “Chopped” Style Cooking Competition: Have contestants compete from their own kitchens with a mystery basket of ingredients.

Galas & Auctions ✨

  1. Full-Scale Virtual Gala: A live-streamed formal event with speakers, awards, and entertainment.
  2. Online Silent Auction: Use mobile bidding software to let people bid from anywhere over several days.
  3. Live Auction with a Professional Auctioneer: Create a high-energy bidding war on a live stream for your big-ticket items.
  4. Fund-a-Need or Paddle Raise: A direct appeal for donations to fund specific items or programs.

Just for Fun & Games 🎲

  1. Virtual Trivia Night: Use platforms like Kahoot! and host it over Zoom.
  2. Online Bingo: Easy to organize and fun for all ages.
  3. Virtual Escape Room: Work together in teams to solve puzzles.
  4. Video Game Tournament: Host a tournament for popular games like Fortnite or FIFA.
  5. Online Scavenger Hunt: Have participants find items around their house or solve riddles.

And 35+ More!

  1. Peer-to-Peer Campaign, 27. Giving Day, 28. Text-to-Give Campaign, 29. Social Media Takeover, 30. Virtual Pet Show, 31. Online Talent Show, 32. Masterclass with an Expert, 33. Virtual Book Club, 34. Online Fashion Show, 35. “Ask Me Anything” with a VIP, 36. Virtual Karaoke, 37. Online DIY Craft Workshop, 38. Virtual Gardening Class, 39. Car Parade with Online Voting, 40. Birthday Fundraiser, 41. Read-a-Thon, 42. Virtual Career Day, 43. Online Raffle, 44. T-Shirt Fundraiser, 45. Virtual Story Time for Kids, 46. Online Comedy Night, 47. Virtual Magic Show, 48. Guess the Number of Jellybeans in a Jar, 49. Virtual Holiday Party, 50. New Year’s Eve Virtual Ball Drop, 51. Super Bowl Squares Pool, 52. March Madness Bracket Challenge, 53. Online Chess Tournament, 54. Virtual Choir Performance, 55. A-Thon for Anything (Knitting, Puzzles, etc.), 56. Mask Decorating Contest, 57. Virtual House Tour, 58. Online Board Game Night, 59. “Meet the Team” Virtual Open House, 60. Pledge Campaign, 61. Matching Gift Campaign.

💡 Expert Tips and Tricks for Hosting Engaging Virtual Fundraising Events

So, you’ve got your plan and your big idea. How do you make sure your event is a can’t-miss experience and not a snooze-fest? Here are some pro tips from our team and other experts in the field.

Keep It Snappy!

Virtual events should be shorter than their in-person counterparts. Aim for a 45-60 minute program. If you need more time, build in breaks or spread the content out over a few days.

Communication is Queen 👑

Over-communicate with your attendees. Send reminder emails with clear instructions on how to join. As OneCause wisely advises, train your attendees on any new technology beforehand to ensure a smooth experience.

Make It Interactive

We can’t say this enough. Engagement is the name of the game.

  • Use the Chat: Have a dedicated person responding to comments and questions in the chat. Shout out to donors by name when they give.
  • Run Polls: Ask fun, simple questions to keep people clicking and paying attention.
  • Gamify Everything: Use fundraising thermometers and leaderboards to create a sense of urgency and competition.

The “First YouTube Video” Secret

Want a deeper dive into the nuts and bolts? The first YouTube video embedded in this article, “What is a Virtual Fundraiser?” by BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising, covers some great insider tips. They call it “the SECRET the fundraising community does not want you to know,” and it’s definitely worth a watch for another perspective.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Do a full technical run-through with all your speakers and hosts. Test your internet connection, lighting, and sound. Nothing kills the vibe faster than technical difficulties.

Leverage Your Network

Encourage your board members, staff, and top supporters to be “ambassadors” for your event. Give them pre-written social media posts and emails to make it easy for them to spread the word. Wayland Academy used this “social influencer strategy” to great effect, raising over $94,000 in their virtual event.

📈 Real-Life Success Stories: Virtual Fundraisers That Raised the Roof

Video: Free Virtual Events with Donations and Fundraising.

Still wondering if this virtual thing really works? Let’s look at some real-world examples of organizations that knocked it out of the park. These stories, highlighted by OneCause, show what’s possible with a little creativity and the right tools.

Case Study 1: Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington

When they had to cancel their annual “Blue Fest,” they didn’t just move it online; they transformed it into a three-day virtual experience.

  • The Strategy: They combined a live-streamed program, an online auction, and live donation appeals.
  • The Results: They raised an incredible $150,896, exceeding their goals for both the silent auction and the live appeal. This proves that a multi-day format can keep engagement high.

Case Study 2: Interfaith Food Pantry

Pivoting their annual gala to a virtual format, this food pantry got creative with their “ask.”

  • The Strategy: Alongside a virtual auction and live stream, they offered fixed-price items for sale, like a case of peanut butter or a pallet of soup.
  • The Key Tactic: These tangible, mission-related items completely sold out, generating a huge amount of revenue and connecting donors directly to the impact of their gift.
  • The Results: They had 922 attendees and raised tens of thousands through their raffle and donation appeals.

Case Study 3: Wayland Academy

This private school showed the power of mobilizing your community.

  • The Strategy: They shifted their annual gala online, using personalized videos and an online auction.
  • The Key Tactic: They created a “social influencer” strategy, providing supporters with pre-written posts and videos to share.
  • The Results: They raised $94,456 and saw an average of over 10 bids per auction item, showing massive engagement.

These stories all share a common thread: they didn’t just try to replicate their in-person event online. They re-imagined it for a digital-first audience, playing to the strengths of the virtual format.

🤝 How to Maximize Donor Engagement and Retention in Virtual Fundraisers

Video: 20 Online Fundraising Ideas Working During COVID-19.

A virtual event is a fantastic way to attract new donors. But how do you keep them? The key is to think of your event not as a one-off transaction, but as the start of a beautiful relationship.

During the Event: Make Them Feel Seen

  • Personalize the Experience: Use merge tags in your emails. Greet people by name in the chat.
  • Create a Sense of Community: Use breakout rooms for smaller group discussions. Encourage attendees to share where they’re tuning in from.
  • Show, Don’t Just Tell: Instead of just talking about your work, show it. Use powerful videos, live interviews with beneficiaries, or virtual tours of your facility.

After the Event: The Follow-Up Funnel

  • Instant Gratification: Send an automated thank-you email and tax receipt the moment a donation is made.
  • The 24-Hour Rule: Within 24 hours, send a personalized thank-you from a real person. A short video message can have a huge impact.
  • Report Back: Within a week, send an email to all attendees (not just donors!) announcing the final fundraising total and thanking them for their part in it.
  • Show the Impact: One to three months later, send another update showing exactly what their donations have accomplished. A picture of the new playground, a testimonial from a scholarship recipient—this is what builds long-term loyalty.
  • Offer Other Ways to Engage: Invite them to volunteer, follow you on social media, or sign up for your newsletter. Give them a way to stay connected beyond just giving money.

Video: 20 Virtual Fundraising Ideas for Nonprofit Organizations.

One of the most attractive aspects of virtual fundraising is its potential for a higher ROI. By cutting out major expenses like venue rental, catering, and travel, you can significantly reduce your overhead. But “low cost” doesn’t mean “no cost.” Here’s how to manage your budget wisely.

Where You’ll Spend Money

  • Platform/Software: This will likely be your biggest expense. Don’t cheap out, but choose a plan that fits your needs.
  • Marketing & Promotion: Budget for social media ads, email marketing services, and potentially graphic design.
  • Talent & Entertainment: If you’re hiring a host, DJ, or special guest, factor in their fees.
  • A/V Equipment: You may need to invest in a good webcam, microphone, or lighting to ensure a professional-looking stream.
  • Swag/Kits: If you’re mailing physical items (like for a wine tasting or paint night), budget for the items, packaging, and shipping.

Money-Saving Tips 💰

  • Look for Free Tools: Platforms like Givebutter offer their services for free, relying on optional tips from donors. Tools like Canva have robust free versions for design.
  • Seek In-Kind Sponsorships: Ask a local A/V company to sponsor your tech needs. See if a local restaurant will sponsor a food delivery voucher for your VIP donors.
  • Leverage In-House Talent: Do you have a staff member who is a great on-camera host? A board member with a great voice for narration? Use the talent you already have!
  • Go Lean on Production: You don’t always need a Hollywood-level production. A clean, well-lit, and engaging stream from a home office can be just as effective as a fancy studio setup. Authenticity often trumps polish.

🔍 Measuring Success: Key Metrics and Analytics for Virtual Fundraising Events

Video: Virtual Fundraiser: Tips and Ideas From a Pro | Interview with Shannon Whitt | Anedot.

You crossed the finish line and raised a ton of money. Success, right? Yes, but that’s only part of the story. The beauty of digital events is the wealth of data they provide. Tracking the right metrics will help you understand what truly worked and how to improve next time.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to Track:

  • Gross and Net Revenue: The total amount raised vs. the amount left after expenses.
  • Number of Attendees: How many people tuned in?
  • Attendee-to-Donor Conversion Rate: What percentage of viewers made a donation?
  • Average Gift Size: How much did the average donor give?
  • New vs. Returning Donors: How many new supporters did you acquire?
  • Email Open & Click-Through Rates: How effective was your promotional outreach?
  • Social Media Engagement: Track likes, shares, comments, and reach for your event-related posts.
  • Peak Viewership & Drop-off Rates: At what point in your program were the most people watching? When did they leave? This is invaluable for planning future content.
  • Cost Per Dollar Raised (CPDR): How much did it cost you to raise each dollar? (Total Expenses / Gross Revenue)

Analyzing this data will give you a 360-degree view of your event’s performance and provide a clear roadmap for your next virtual fundraiser.

🌐 Integrating Social Media and Marketing to Boost Your Virtual Fundraiser

Video: How to start a virtual fundraiser.

Your virtual event needs a virtual megaphone. A smart, integrated marketing strategy is essential to cut through the digital noise and get people to your event. This is where a solid Event Promotion strategy comes into play.

Pre-Event Hype Machine

  • Create an Event Hashtag: Make it unique, memorable, and easy to spell. Use it on all your posts.
  • Leverage All Platforms: Use Facebook for community building, Instagram for compelling visuals and stories, Twitter for quick updates and engaging with partners, and LinkedIn for corporate sponsors and professional audiences.
  • Go Live Before You Go Live: Host short “teaser” live streams on Facebook or Instagram with your hosts or special guests to build excitement.
  • Create a Facebook Event Page: This acts as a central hub for updates, discussions, and reminders.
  • Run Targeted Ads: Use the demographic targeting tools on social media to reach potential new supporters who are similar to your existing donors.

During the Event

  • Simulcast Your Stream: If possible, stream your event to multiple platforms at once (e.g., your website, Facebook, and YouTube) to meet your audience where they are.
  • Have a Social Media Manager: Designate someone to post live updates, share screenshots, and engage with comments during the event.
  • Encourage User-Generated Content: Ask attendees to post photos of themselves enjoying the event from home using your hashtag. Feature the best ones on screen!

Post-Event Gratitude Tour

  • Share Your Success: Post your final fundraising totals and thank your community across all your channels.
  • Create Highlight Reels: Edit down the best moments from your event into a short, shareable video.
  • Spotlight Your Sponsors: Give your sponsors dedicated thank-you posts.

🧰 Getting Started with OneCause and Other Leading Virtual Fundraising Platforms

Video: Virtual Fundraising Best Practices & Pro Tips.

Feeling ready to take the plunge but overwhelmed by the options? Let’s break down how to get started with a few of the top contenders.

OneCause: The Gala & Auction Powerhouse

OneCause is a fantastic choice for organizations planning sophisticated events like virtual galas with extensive silent auctions.

  • Getting Started: You’ll typically start by requesting a personalized demo. Their team will walk you through the platform’s features, from setting up your event website and ticketing to managing mobile bidding and live-streaming.
  • Best Feature: Their Mobile Bidding and Auction Software is top-notch. It creates a seamless and fun experience for bidders, sending outbid notifications and allowing for easy checkout.
  • Consider If: Your event has a strong auction component and you need robust, all-in-one event management tools.

Funraise: The Modern Campaign Builder

Funraise excels at creating beautiful, modern, and donor-friendly campaign sites. It’s less about managing the nitty-gritty of a live event and more about providing a stellar giving experience.

  • Getting Started: Funraise also offers demos to see if their platform is a fit. Their focus is on ease of use and powerful integrations.
  • Best Feature: Their customizable donation forms and campaign sites are sleek, mobile-optimized, and designed to maximize conversions.
  • Consider If: Your primary need is a powerful online donation platform that supports peer-to-peer and recurring giving, with virtual events as one component of your strategy.

Givebutter: The Free & Flexible Option

Givebutter has disrupted the market by offering a huge suite of tools completely free of charge, supported by optional donor tips.

  • Getting Started: You can sign up and start creating your first campaign in minutes. The platform is incredibly intuitive.
  • Best Feature: The price tag (or lack thereof). For small to medium-sized nonprofits, getting access to ticketing, auctions, peer-to-peer, and CRM tools for free is an absolute game-changer.
  • Consider If: You’re on a tight budget, need a flexible all-in-one solution, and value ease of use.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

🎬 Wrapping Up: Final Thoughts on Mastering Virtual Fundraisers

Video: Virtual fundraiser for non-profit.

Phew! What a journey through the vibrant world of virtual fundraising. From understanding the basics to exploring over 60 creative event ideas and dissecting real-life success stories, you’re now armed with everything you need to launch your own virtual fundraiser with confidence.

So, what’s the bottom line? Virtual fundraisers are not just a pandemic-era band-aid—they’re a powerful, flexible, and cost-effective way to engage donors worldwide and raise meaningful funds. The key is to embrace the unique strengths of the digital space: interactivity, data insights, and global reach.

If you’re wondering whether to invest in a platform like OneCause, Funraise, or Givebutter, here’s a quick recap:

Platform Positives Drawbacks Our Recommendation
OneCause Robust auction tools, professional event management, great for large galas Can be complex and pricier, steeper learning curve ✅ Best for organizations hosting large, complex virtual galas and auctions
Funraise Sleek, donor-friendly design, excellent peer-to-peer tools, strong CRM integrations Less focused on live event management ✅ Ideal for nonprofits prioritizing beautiful campaigns and recurring giving
Givebutter Free to use, all-in-one platform, very easy to get started Limited advanced features for very large events ✅ Perfect for small to medium nonprofits or those new to virtual fundraising

Remember those unanswered questions about keeping donors engaged and making your event unforgettable? Now you know the secret sauce is storytelling, interactivity, and follow-up. Treat your donors like VIP guests, and they’ll keep coming back.

Ready to take that first step? Your virtual fundraising adventure awaits!

👉 Shop Fundraising Platforms & Tools:

Books to Boost Your Fundraising Know-How:

  • The Art of Fundraising: How to Raise Money and Make a Difference by Stanley Weinstein — Amazon Link
  • Fundraising for Social Change by Kim Klein — Amazon Link
  • Virtual Fundraising: How to Raise Money Online by Lisa Newton — Amazon Link (fictional example for illustration)

Further Inspiration:

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Virtual Fundraisers

Video: Virtual Fundraiser Pre-Event Programming Examples And Tips.

How do virtual walkathons work?

Virtual walkathons invite participants to walk or run in their own neighborhoods or preferred locations while fundraising online. Participants register through a platform, set personal fundraising goals, and track their activity using apps like Strava or Fitbit. They share their progress on social media to encourage donations. Organizers often provide digital swag, leaderboards, and interactive challenges to keep motivation high. This format removes geographic barriers, allowing global participation and inclusivity.

What are the benefits of hosting a virtual fundraiser?

Hosting a virtual fundraiser offers several advantages:

  • Broader Reach: Engage donors worldwide, not limited by physical location.
  • Lower Costs: Save on venue, catering, and travel expenses.
  • Convenience: Donors can participate and give anytime, anywhere.
  • Data Insights: Digital platforms provide real-time analytics to optimize campaigns.
  • Flexibility: Easily adapt event formats and timelines.
  • Accessibility: Allows participation from people with mobility challenges or busy schedules.

How can I participate in a virtual walkathon?

To join a virtual walkathon, follow these steps:

  1. Register Online: Sign up through the event’s website or platform.
  2. Set Your Goal: Decide on a fundraising target or personal distance goal.
  3. Fundraise: Use social media, email, and peer-to-peer tools to collect donations.
  4. Walk/Run: Complete your walkathon at your own pace and location within the event timeframe.
  5. Track & Share: Use fitness apps to log your activity and share updates to inspire donors.
  6. Celebrate: Join any virtual closing ceremonies or social events to connect with fellow participants.

What platforms are best for virtual fundraising events?

Choosing the right platform depends on your event’s size, complexity, and goals:

  • OneCause: Best for large-scale virtual galas and auctions with robust event management.
  • Funraise: Great for sleek, donor-centric campaigns with peer-to-peer and recurring giving.
  • Givebutter: Ideal for small to medium nonprofits seeking a free, easy-to-use all-in-one solution.
  • Classy: Excellent for peer-to-peer and crowdfunding campaigns with strong social integration.
  • DonorDrive: Perfect for virtual athletic events like walkathons with gamification features.

How do I keep donors engaged during a virtual fundraiser?

Engagement strategies include:

  • Incorporating interactive elements like live polls, Q&A sessions, and chat moderation.
  • Using gamification such as fundraising thermometers and leaderboards.
  • Sharing compelling stories and live testimonials.
  • Recognizing donors publicly during the event.
  • Providing clear, frequent calls to action.
  • Offering post-event follow-up with personalized thank-you messages and impact reports.

How do I measure the success of a virtual fundraising event?

Track these key metrics:

  • Total funds raised (gross and net)
  • Number of attendees and donors
  • Conversion rate from attendee to donor
  • Average donation size
  • New versus returning donors
  • Engagement rates on emails and social media
  • Peak viewership and drop-off points during live streams
  • Cost per dollar raised (CPDR)

Analyzing these will help refine future events and maximize impact.

These resources provide additional insights, tools, and inspiration to help you create virtual fundraisers that truly make a difference.

Ready to get started? Your virtual fundraising journey is just a click away! 🚀

Jacob
Jacob
Articles: 267

Related Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Trending now

How Do You Create a Walkathon? 12 Expert Steps to Success (2025) 🚶‍♂️
Featured image for 15 Best Free Virtual Walking Apps to Try in 2025
15 Best Free Virtual Walking Apps to Try in 2025 🚶‍♀️
[2023] How to Plan a Walkathon Fundraiser: A Complete Guide to Success
Featured image for What Equipment Prep Do You Really Need for a Virtual Walkathon 2025
What Equipment & Prep Do You Really Need for a Virtual Walkathon? 🚶‍♂️ (2025)