7 Best Apps & Websites To Use For A Silent Auction Raffle Draw
Hosting a silent auction raffle draw is a great way to raise funds and engage your audience, but managing bidding, tracking tickets, and drawing winners can become complicated without the right tools. In this guide learn the best apps and websites, their features, pros and cons, and tips for selecting the best fit for your nonprofit and budget.
1. BetterWorld
BetterWorld allows nonprofits to manage auctions, raffles, ticketed and crowdfunded campaigns, donations, peer-to-peer fundraising, paddle raises, and more, all in one platform.
Key Features:
Seamless automation and integrations
Encrypted payments
Little to no manual work
Pros:
Extremely user-friendly
Multiple plans for flexibility
Free core platform with optional plans
Integrated tools for all campaign needs
Unlimited campaigns
Cons:
Missing features like keyword search for auction items
Some donor reports aren’t easy to access unless items are entered directly
Donor accreditation doesn't appear on an item page
Navigation flow issues in certain campaign types
2. Charity Auctions Today
Charity Auctions Today stands out as an all-in-one solution designed specifically for nonprofit organizations. The platform handles everything from item catalog creation to payment processing, making it a favorite among event planners who want minimal technical hassle.
Key Features:
Mobile-responsive bidding interface
Real-time bid notifications via text and email
Integrated payment processing with multiple options
Detailed analytics and reporting
24/7 customer support during events
Pros:
Intuitive interface that requires minimal training
Excellent customer service reputation
Built-in marketing tools for pre-event promotion
Supports both silent auctions and raffles in one platform
Cons:
Higher pricing compared to some competitors
Limited customization options for branding
Processing fees can add up for smaller organizations
3. BiddingOwl
BiddingOwl offers a straightforward approach to mobile bidding that appeals to organizations prioritizing simplicity and affordability. The platform focuses on core functionality while maintaining competitive pricing.
Key Features:
QR code bidding system
Automatic bid increment settings
Basic reporting and analytics
Text message outbid alerts
Simple setup process
Pros:
Affordable pricing structure
Quick setup and launch process
No long-term contracts required
Good for organizations with limited tech expertise
Cons:
Fewer advanced features than premium platforms
Limited design customization
Basic reporting capabilities
No dedicated account management
4. ClickBid
ClickBid caters to organizations running high-stakes fundraising events that demand professional polish and advanced functionality. The platform offers extensive customization options and powerful analytics tools.
Key Features:
Advanced bidding algorithms
Comprehensive guest management system
Custom branding and design options
Multi-language support
Integration with major donor management systems
Pros:
Highly customizable interface
Robust reporting and analytics
Excellent for large-scale events
Strong integration capabilities
Cons:
Steeper learning curve
Higher cost for premium features
May be overwhelming for smaller organizations
Requires more setup time
5. 32auctions
32auctions positions itself as the accessible choice for organizations that want effective mobile bidding without complexity or high costs. The platform particularly appeals to schools and community groups.
Key Features:
Simple catalog creation tools
Mobile-optimized bidding experience
Basic payment processing
Event management dashboard
Email marketing integration
Pros:
Very user-friendly interface
Affordable pricing for small organizations
Good customer support
Quick setup process
Cons:
Limited advanced features
Basic customization options
Fewer reporting details
Not ideal for large, complex events
6. GalaBid
GalaBid is a cloud-based fundraising platform tailored for nonprofits, event organizers, and charities. It enables seamless management of live and silent auctions, raffles, donations, and event ticketing, all accessible via desktop or mobile browser. Event participants simply register, bid, donate, or buy—no app downloads required.
Key features:
Hosts both live and silent auctions
Organizes raffles and monitors donations seamlessly
Offers customizable event pages
Pros:
Intuitive, mobile-first interface with smooth bidder experience
Automated alerts to help drive engagement
Pretty affordable or pay-per-proceeds model
Real-time bidding, raffles, customizable sites, and gamification enhance events
Cons:
Requires Stripe—no other payment integrations supported
Cannot assign different end times to items within the same auction
Limited email and visual presentation options (e.g., image size, communications)
Reporting can be confusing or lack flexibility
7. Givergy
Givergy is a versatile, intuitive platform designed to help nonprofits elevate their fundraising initiatives. With a robust suite of tools, personalized support, and global capabilities, it caters to organizations of all sizes and types.
Key features:
Allows organizations to host both silent and live auctions
Offers tools to manage and promote raffles, increasing fundraising opportunities
Streamlines ticket sales and guest check-in processes for events
Features like leaderboards, personalized fundraising pages, and gamification to boost participation
Real-time event management with the Givergy Event App, allowing for on-the-go updates and control
Pros:
Intuitive design makes it easy for both organizers and donors to navigate
24/7 customer service to assist with any issues or questions
Tailored features to fit the unique needs of each event or campaign
Supports organizations worldwide with multi-currency and multi-language capabilities
Cons:
Can be a steeper learning curve, especially for those new to online fundraising platforms
More customization for reporting and analytics
The overall pricing structure lacks clarity
Implementation Best Practices For Your Live Or Silent Auction Fundraiser
Start Planning Early
Allow sufficient time for item catalog creation, bidder registration setup, and team training. Most organizations need at least 4-6 weeks for full implementation.
Train Your Team
Invest time in team training. Your volunteers and staff need to feel confident troubleshooting common issues and helping bidders navigate the platform. Some auctions that aren’t as successful results from inadequate preparation rather than platform limitations.
Test Everything Multiple Times
Conduct thorough testing sessions before your event. Test the bidding process, payment system, and checkout workflow. Have team members simulate various scenarios including outbid notifications and payment failures.
Technical Support
Even the best platforms occasionally experience issues. Ensure you have direct contact information for technical support during your event. Some platforms provide dedicated support representatives for event days.
Choosing The Right App & Website For A Silent Auction Raffle Draw
The right digital platform for your nonprofit can boost auction raffle results by increasing participation, raising bids, and reducing administrative work. Choosing the right app and website for your organization and doing pre-planning prep work will help make your fundraiser a smooth and engaging experience for everyone.
It’s important to offer exciting and silent auction items that generate buzz for attendees and donors. A great easy to do this is by offering luxury vacation travel packages and experiences to encourage competitive bidding and drive more funds for your nonprofit. At BlueTree, our team makes the process seamless and stress-free from helping you choose packages to directly working with the winning bidder! Explore our auction catalog and reach out to let us help make your next fundraiser truly unforgettable.