How to Host a Virtual Fundraising Event

A Complete Guide for Nonprofits

Virtual fundraising events are here to stay. They allow nonprofits to reach supporters across the country or even around the world, often with lower costs and more flexibility than in-person events. From livestreamed galas to peer-to-peer fundraisers, the right strategy can help you raise money, build community, and showcase your mission online.

Whether you are planning your first virtual fundraiser or looking to improve your next one, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to plan, promote, and run a successful online event.

• Why Virtual Fundraising Events Work
• Types of Virtual Fundraisers
• How to Plan a Virtual Fundraising Event
• Tools and Platforms to Use
• How to Promote Your Event
• Tips for Engaging Attendees
• Follow-Up and Retention Strategies

Why Virtual Fundraising Events Work

Virtual events remove the geographic and logistical limitations of in-person gatherings. They allow your nonprofit to:

• Expand reach to a broader audience
• Lower overhead costs
• Provide flexible participation options
• Gather real-time engagement and data
• Raise funds using digital tools with built-in donation features

According to Nonprofit Source, 54 percent of donors prefer to give online, and virtual events provide a direct pathway to meet them where they are.

Types of Virtual Fundraisers

There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Here are some popular formats:

Live-streamed events
Use platforms like YouTube Live or Facebook Live to host galas, panels, or performances.

Online auctions
Use a tool like OneCause to auction off donated items with mobile bidding.

Peer-to-peer campaigns
Encourage supporters to raise money on your behalf. Classy and Givebutter make this easy to manage.

Virtual runs or challenges
Ask participants to walk, run, or bike in their own neighborhoods and share their progress online.

Interactive webinars or panels
Host informative sessions with guest speakers or beneficiaries to educate and inspire.

How to Plan a Virtual Fundraising Event

Set a clear goal

Define what you want to raise and why. Tie it to a tangible outcome. For example, “We want to raise twenty thousand dollars to fund emergency shelter for thirty families.”

Choose the right format

Select a format that matches your audience, tech comfort level, and budget.

Pick a date and time

Avoid major holidays and check for conflicts with other virtual events. Consider your time zones if you have a national or global audience.

Build a timeline and checklist

Use tools like Trello or Asana to track milestones like rehearsals, promotions, and tech testing.

Secure speakers, hosts, or performers

Choose individuals who are engaging and familiar with your mission. Consider reaching out to local influencers or board members.

Tools and Platforms to Use

Livestreaming

• Zoom for meetings and webinars
• StreamYard for branded livestreaming
• OBS Studio for advanced streaming setups

Fundraising platforms

• Givebutter
• Classy
• Donorbox

Engagement tools

• Slido for live polls and Q and A
• Mentimeter for interactive presentations
• Kahoot for virtual quizzes or trivia

Choose platforms that integrate with your CRM or email list when possible.

How to Promote Your Event

Promotion should start at least four to six weeks before your event and include:

• Email marketing
  Send save-the-dates, registration reminders, and final countdowns. Use platforms like Mailchimp or ConvertKit.
• Social media content
  Create event countdowns, teaser videos, and highlight speakers on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
• Paid promotion
  Use Meta Ads or Google Ad Grants if you have the budget or support.
• Landing page
  Build a simple event page with details, registration form, and donation options. Include social proof like testimonials or previous event highlights.

Tips for Engaging Attendees

• Use live chat to acknowledge donors or answer questions
• Display a real-time fundraising goal or donation ticker
• Include breakout rooms or discussion prompts if on Zoom
• Encourage photo sharing with branded hashtags
• Offer prizes or shoutouts for top fundraisers or trivia winners

According to Eventbrite, engagement increases when attendees feel seen and valued. Use their name, thank them during the stream, and invite two-way interaction.

Follow-Up and Retention Strategies

Your event does not end when the stream stops. Be sure to:

• Send thank-you emails or text messages within 24 hours
• Share a recap blog or video on your website and social media
• Report on how funds will be used and the difference donors made
• Invite attendees to subscribe, volunteer, or attend your next event
• Use surveys (via Google Forms or Typeform) to collect feedback

Retention begins with appreciation and communication. Make supporters feel like insiders, not just donors.

Final Thoughts

Hosting a virtual fundraising event gives your nonprofit the ability to reach supporters where they are, tell your story in new ways, and raise essential funds with flexibility and creativity.

With the right digital tools, intentional planning, and post-event follow-up, you can turn an online experience into a lasting connection.

Need help designing or promoting your next virtual event? RJ’s Digital Solutions specializes in nonprofit marketing strategies built for impact. Contact us today and let’s create an experience your community will never forget.