The 2020 pandemic did a number of things for nonprofits. And while some of those left us scrambling to make changes, there were a few great things to come out of it.
One of them? The rise of virtual events for nonprofits!
Even now that we’re coming out of the pandemic and things are normalizing, virtual fundraising events for nonprofits are still prominent.
So if you’re looking to elevate your next event, why not choose one of these virtual event platforms for nonprofits!
What Are Virtual Event Platforms for Nonprofits?
Virtual event platforms for nonprofits are designed to give audience viewers the greatest experience possible from the comfort of their homes.
Instead of needing to travel to an event in-person, they can attend the event by using their computer, tablet, or phone!
And with the right virtual event platforms for nonprofits, you can create an experience that is just as amazing (if not even better!) than one in-person.
If you haven’t jumped on board with this bandwagon, we highly recommend trying it out for your next nonprofit fundraising event!
Why Should You Consider Virtual Event Platforms for Nonprofits for Your Next Fundraising Event?
If you’re planning on having any sort of virtual element to your next nonprofit fundraising event, then it’s best to opt for a virtual event platform for nonprofits.
That’s because they’re designed for nonprofits. They know what a nonprofit organization needs to have access to make the event a success!
These virtual event platforms for nonprofits aren’t the same as throwing Zoom up on the desktop monitor and calling it a day.
They’re chock full of features and solutions to make sure your event is a success when it comes to fundraising.
Plus, they’re perfect to use alongside your online donation platforms and any other nonprofit virtual fundraising event tools you use!
What to Look for in Virtual Event Platforms for Nonprofits?
We know why we should consider virtual event platforms for nonprofits, but what should we look for when we’re searching for the best one?
Here’s a quick rundown of some of the features to be on the lookout for!
- Accessible platform before and after the event
- Breakout sessions
- Donation pages
- Event analytics
- Live chats
- Live Q&A
- Live video streaming
- Peer-to-peer fundraising capabilities
- Raffles
- Text-to-donate capabilities
- Ticket sales to events
- Virtual silent auction capabilities
Some features may be more of a priority than others depending on what your nonprofit needs and the type of virtual fundraising event you’re hosting. So be sure to look for the best platforms for your organization’s needs!
The Top 6 Virtual Event Platforms for Nonprofits
At Nonprofit-Apps, we know that having awesome virtual event platforms for nonprofits is a game-changer!
That’s why we’ve done some digging. And we’ve rounded up the top 6 virtual event platforms for nonprofits to help you elevate your next online fundraising event!
*PLEASE NOTE: This list of virtual event platforms for nonprofits is based on extensive research on the tools available to you. We’ve combed through the platforms’ websites, read reviews, and dug up reports to find helpful information.
This list is not in any particular order. We do not receive any compensation for these products at Nonprofit-Apps.
However, some of these platforms are contributors to our sister sites, Nonprofit Library and CharityHowTo.*
1. ZGive
ZGive is a digital auction platform that makes your next nonprofit virtual fundraising event more engaging!
It’s an easy-to-use platform that makes bidding and buying fun and exciting for your audience.
Top Features of This Virtual Event Platform for Nonprofits:
ZGive doesn’t just stop at digital auctions. This is one of the virtual event platforms for nonprofits that checks off quite a few things on the “features to look for” checklist above!
Here are some of the top features of ZGive:
- Unlimited auctions, items, and participants
- Mobile and online bidding
- Built-in SMS text messaging
- Donate button on auction screen
- Event stats and analytics reporting
Best For:
This is a virtual event platform for nonprofits that’s best if the main focus of your event is an auction or as an “add-on” for your overall fundraising event. While the platform is incredible, it does focus heavily on auction-related tasks.
Want a free demo of this tool?
Watch the FREE Demo of the ZGive Auction Platform at Nonprofit Library!
2. AccelEvents
AccelEvents describes itself as an all-in-one event management platform. And while it’s not specifically designed for nonprofits, the capabilities it has for nonprofits are stellar! You’ll get everything you need out of this one!
Top Features of This Virtual Event Platform for Nonprofits:
AccelEvents is one of the virtual event platforms that checks just about every box on the “features to look out for” list!
Here are the highlights of the top features:
- Integrated live streaming
- Attendee workshops and drop-in lounges
- Ticketing and registration
- Gamification to increase engagement among attendees
- Branded landing pages that can act as donation pages
- Silent auctions
- Event analytics
Best For:
AccelEvents is one of the best virtual event platforms for nonprofits if you’re hosting a larger event or if you’re a larger nonprofit overall. With so many features, you can host an incredible online fundraising event for your nonprofit with this tool!
3. Handbid
Handbid is another virtual event platform for nonprofits that’s great for silent auctions. Bidders can participate from anywhere in the world, so you’re not limited to a certain location!
Top Features of This Virtual Event Platform for Nonprofits:
Handbid is an awesome platform for nonprofits that are planning to incorporate silent auctions into their upcoming events. But this tool doesn’t just stop at auctions!
Here are some of the best features of Handbid:
- Integrated live stream
- Auction management and analytics
- Web-based and live-event bidding
- Simple, secure checkout for attendees
Best For:
This is an excellent virtual event platform for nonprofit organizations that plan to incorporate a lot of auctions for their next events. It’s also great for nonprofits who know their supporters are spread out, rather than in one localized area. With the Handbid app, users can download and use it from anywhere!
4. Run the World
Run the World is one of the best virtual event platforms for nonprofits available. And that’s because, no matter what type of online fundraising event you’re planning, you can create it with this platform.
From social events, to webinars and workshops, to conferences and fairs – you can do all of that and so much more with the Run the World platform.
Top Features of This Virtual Event Platform for Nonprofits:
Whew, there are so many amazing features to this platform! So we’ll hit the highlights:
- Panel discussions with up to 15 different speakers
- Round table and breakout discussions
- Live Q&A with a “grab the mic” option for attendees to speak if they wish (something that you can’t do on Zoom!)
- 1:1 Speed networking for meet and greets with your attendees
- Integrated live streaming
- Ticketing and registration for private events
- Sponsor shoutouts and booths
- Attendee user profiles
- Up to 10K attendees
- Event reporting and analytics
Best For:
“No more boring virtual events.” That’s what Run the World stands for! So this virtual event platform for nonprofits is the best choice if you want to make sure your attendees have an outstanding experience.
5. Givebutter
Givebutter is quickly setting the pace as the #1 free fundraising platform in America. And for good reason!
It’s one of the best virtual event platforms for nonprofits that’s designed specifically with nonprofits in mind.
From event landing pages with custom nonprofit branding to peer-to-peer fundraising, this platform is sure to help you rock your next online fundraising event!
** You get a free onboarding call when you activate your account above **
Top Features of This Virtual Event Platform for Nonprofits:
We love all that Givebutter can do for your organization! Here are some of the top features that are included with this platform:
- 0% platform fee
- Fundraising pages
- Integrated live streaming
- Ticketing and registration
- Peer-to-peer fundraising
- Donor messages
Best For:
Givebutter is an incredible platform that’s perfect for nonprofits who are looking for options with smaller budgets. It’s also one of the best virtual event platforms for nonprofits who are just getting started with online fundraising events!
Get an Inside Look at Givebutter with a FREE Demo at Nonprofit Library!
6. Trellis
This is another one of the best virtual event platforms for nonprofits that focuses on auctions. But it doesn’t stop at auctions! You can host your entire virtual event and even host raffles with Trellis.
Top Features of This Virtual Event Platform for Nonprofits:
Trellis is a virtual event platform that’s made specifically for nonprofits! And the features show it!
Here are some of the top features of Trellis:
- Ticketing and registration
- Merchandise eCommerce option
- Dedicated event page
- Integrated live streaming
- Silent and live auction capabilities
- Automatic tax receipting
- In-app messaging
- Text notifications
- One-click donate options
- Checkout upsell options
- Auto-bidding for auctions
- Raffles
- Easy-to-use interface for all users!
Best For:
All nonprofit organizations can benefit from this incredible virtual event platform! Plus, they have a wonderful “First Fundraiser Guarantee.” They believe in their platform so much that they’ll give your money back if you don’t increase your revenue at your first fundraiser!
Trellis is truly one of the best virtual event platforms for nonprofits. And we’re here to prove it!