Quick Overview
- 1#1: GiveSmart - Provides mobile bidding, auction management, and fundraising tools tailored for nonprofit events.
- 2#2: OneCause - Offers mobile bidding, live auctions, and donor engagement software for nonprofit galas and fundraisers.
- 3#3: Auctria - Delivers all-in-one auction software with bidding, ticketing, and donor tracking for nonprofits.
- 4#4: ClickBid - Enables online and mobile silent auctions with easy item management and real-time bidding for charities.
- 5#5: BetterWorld - Supports virtual and hybrid auctions with fundraising pages, payments, and donor CRM for nonprofits.
- 6#6: Galaxy Digital - Manages live, silent, and online auctions with integrated event registration and donor management.
- 7#7: Handbid - Facilitates mobile bidding and paddle raise events with customizable auctions for nonprofit organizations.
- 8#8: BidZii - Powers text-to-bid and online auctions with real-time updates and fundraising analytics for charities.
- 9#9: Silent Auction Pro - Simplifies silent auctions with digital bidding sheets, paddles, and reporting for nonprofit events.
- 10#10: AuctionMob - Offers mobile-first auction software for check-in, bidding, and payments at nonprofit fundraisers.
These tools were selected based on a holistic assessment of key factors, including feature breadth (such as mobile bidding, donor tracking, and event management), user experience, technical reliability, and overall value, ensuring they cater to the unique demands of charity events of all scales and formats.
Comparison Table
Selecting the right nonprofit auction software is critical for streamlining fundraising efforts and driving impact; this comparison table explores key tools—including GiveSmart, OneCause, Auctria, ClickBid, BetterWorld, and more—to help you identify the best fit. Readers will discover details on features, usability, and cost, enabling them to match their organization’s unique needs with a platform that enhances auction success.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | GiveSmart Provides mobile bidding, auction management, and fundraising tools tailored for nonprofit events. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | OneCause Offers mobile bidding, live auctions, and donor engagement software for nonprofit galas and fundraisers. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Auctria Delivers all-in-one auction software with bidding, ticketing, and donor tracking for nonprofits. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | ClickBid Enables online and mobile silent auctions with easy item management and real-time bidding for charities. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | BetterWorld Supports virtual and hybrid auctions with fundraising pages, payments, and donor CRM for nonprofits. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 6 | Galaxy Digital Manages live, silent, and online auctions with integrated event registration and donor management. | specialized | 0.5/10 | 0.0/10 | 3.0/10 | 0.0/10 |
| 7 | Handbid Facilitates mobile bidding and paddle raise events with customizable auctions for nonprofit organizations. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | BidZii Powers text-to-bid and online auctions with real-time updates and fundraising analytics for charities. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 9 | Silent Auction Pro Simplifies silent auctions with digital bidding sheets, paddles, and reporting for nonprofit events. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 10 | AuctionMob Offers mobile-first auction software for check-in, bidding, and payments at nonprofit fundraisers. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 6.8/10 |
Provides mobile bidding, auction management, and fundraising tools tailored for nonprofit events.
Offers mobile bidding, live auctions, and donor engagement software for nonprofit galas and fundraisers.
Delivers all-in-one auction software with bidding, ticketing, and donor tracking for nonprofits.
Enables online and mobile silent auctions with easy item management and real-time bidding for charities.
Supports virtual and hybrid auctions with fundraising pages, payments, and donor CRM for nonprofits.
Manages live, silent, and online auctions with integrated event registration and donor management.
Facilitates mobile bidding and paddle raise events with customizable auctions for nonprofit organizations.
Powers text-to-bid and online auctions with real-time updates and fundraising analytics for charities.
Simplifies silent auctions with digital bidding sheets, paddles, and reporting for nonprofit events.
Offers mobile-first auction software for check-in, bidding, and payments at nonprofit fundraisers.
GiveSmart
specializedProvides mobile bidding, auction management, and fundraising tools tailored for nonprofit events.
The proprietary mobile bidder app that enables contactless, real-time bidding and donor engagement without desktops or hardware.
GiveSmart is a leading mobile-first fundraising platform tailored for nonprofits, specializing in silent, live, and online auctions at events like galas and fundraisers. It provides a seamless bidder app for real-time mobile bidding, item management, donor tracking, and comprehensive reporting to maximize revenue. The software integrates with popular CRMs like Salesforce and offers tools for text-to-donate, raffles, and event registration, making it a full-suite solution for nonprofit event fundraising.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile bidding app with real-time updates and paddle raise functionality
- Robust integrations with CRMs and payment processors for seamless donor management
- Excellent customer support and training resources tailored for nonprofit events
Cons
- Higher pricing can be prohibitive for smaller nonprofits or infrequent events
- Customization options are somewhat limited without enterprise plans
- Occasional reports of app glitches during high-traffic events
Best For
Mid-to-large nonprofits hosting high-profile gala auctions and fundraising events seeking a polished, mobile-centric solution.
Pricing
Custom pricing with per-event plans starting around $5,000 or annual subscriptions from $15,000+ based on event volume and features.
OneCause
specializedOffers mobile bidding, live auctions, and donor engagement software for nonprofit galas and fundraisers.
Mobile Bid app for hardware-free, real-time bidding, paddles, and donations directly from guests' smartphones
OneCause is a leading nonprofit auction software platform that specializes in mobile-first fundraising events, enabling silent, live, and online auctions through an intuitive app. It streamlines bidder registration, real-time bidding, payments, and donor tracking to boost engagement and revenue at galas and fundraisers. Designed exclusively for nonprofits, it integrates event management tools with comprehensive reporting for post-event analysis.
Pros
- Seamless mobile bidding via the proprietary Mobile Bid app, increasing participation without hardware needs
- Comprehensive tools for silent/live auctions, raffles, and text-to-donate
- Excellent nonprofit-focused support and customizable templates for quick setup
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small or infrequent events
- Limited native integrations with non-auction-specific CRMs
- Advanced customization requires higher-tier plans
Best For
Mid-sized to large nonprofits hosting high-engagement auction events like galas who prioritize mobile accessibility and real-time bidder interaction.
Pricing
Event-based pricing starts at ~$2,000-$4,000 per event depending on features and bidder count; annual subscriptions from $5,000+ for unlimited events, with custom enterprise quotes.
Auctria
specializedDelivers all-in-one auction software with bidding, ticketing, and donor tracking for nonprofits.
Unlimited bidder mobile bidding app with hybrid event support
Auctria is a comprehensive auction management software designed specifically for nonprofits, offering tools to run live, silent, online, and hybrid auctions from start to finish. It handles bidder registration, item management, real-time mobile bidding via a dedicated app, and detailed post-event reporting to track donations and donor engagement. The platform integrates with CRMs like NeonCRM and accounting software like QuickBooks, making it a robust solution for fundraising events.
Pros
- Powerful mobile bidding app with text-to-bid and real-time updates
- Comprehensive reporting and donor tracking tools
- Seamless integrations with nonprofit CRMs and accounting software
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small or infrequent events
- Initial setup and learning curve for complex events
- Limited customization options for advanced users
Best For
Mid-sized nonprofits organizing frequent or large-scale auction events that need reliable mobile bidding and donor management.
Pricing
Event-based pricing starts at $2,495 for unlimited bidders per event, with discounts for multiple events annually; no per-bidder fees.
ClickBid
specializedEnables online and mobile silent auctions with easy item management and real-time bidding for charities.
Guest self-service mobile bidding app with QR code check-in for seamless, real-time participation without paddles or desks
ClickBid is a comprehensive online auction platform built for nonprofits, specializing in silent, live, and mobile auctions to streamline fundraising events. It provides tools for item management, bidder registration, real-time bidding via a guest mobile app, and integrated payments with detailed post-event reporting. The software emphasizes ease for volunteers and donors, helping organizations maximize revenue without extensive technical setup.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile bidding app for guests, enabling paperless auctions
- Robust tools for item solicitation, donor tracking, and analytics
- Dedicated nonprofit support with quick onboarding and training resources
Cons
- Revenue-share pricing (around 3.5-5%) can reduce net funds for small events
- Customization options are somewhat limited compared to enterprise tools
- Occasional reports of app glitches during high-volume bidding
Best For
Mid-sized nonprofits hosting regular galas or auctions that prioritize mobile accessibility and volunteer-friendly interfaces.
Pricing
No setup or monthly fees; charges 3.5-5% of gross auction revenue plus payment processing, with volume discounts available.
BetterWorld
specializedSupports virtual and hybrid auctions with fundraising pages, payments, and donor CRM for nonprofits.
Zero platform fees for nonprofits, making it the most accessible entry point for auction-based fundraising
BetterWorld is an all-in-one online fundraising platform tailored for nonprofits, specializing in silent auctions, live auctions, mobile bidding, and paddle raises. It provides tools for event management, donor CRM, ticketing, and peer-to-peer fundraising, allowing organizations to host professional events without technical expertise. The platform emphasizes ease of use with drag-and-drop customization and seamless mobile integration for bidders.
Pros
- Completely free platform for nonprofits with no setup or monthly fees
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface and robust mobile bidding app
- Integrated donor CRM and reporting for streamlined fundraising
Cons
- Transaction processing fees (around 4-6%) can accumulate for high-volume events
- Limited advanced customization options compared to enterprise competitors
- Fewer third-party integrations than some paid alternatives
Best For
Small to mid-sized nonprofits needing a cost-free, user-friendly solution for online auctions and virtual events.
Pricing
Free for nonprofits; only transaction processing fees apply (e.g., 3.95% + $0.99 per card transaction).
Galaxy Digital
specializedManages live, silent, and online auctions with integrated event registration and donor management.
Advanced cryptocurrency trading desk with real-time market access
Galaxy Digital (galaxydigital.com) is a financial services firm specializing in cryptocurrency trading, asset management, and blockchain advisory for institutional investors. It provides platforms for digital asset transactions but offers no features tailored to nonprofit auction software, such as bid management, item catalogs, mobile bidding, or donor tracking. This makes it entirely unsuitable for organizing charity auctions, silent auctions, or fundraising events typically run by nonprofits.
Pros
- Secure institutional-grade cryptocurrency trading platform
- Experienced team in digital assets
- Potential for handling NFT or crypto donations
Cons
- Zero auction-specific features like bidding or event management
- Not designed for nonprofits or fundraising
- High complexity and volatility unsuitable for charity events
Best For
Institutional crypto investors seeking trading and asset management, not nonprofits needing auction software.
Pricing
Custom institutional fees including trading commissions and asset management (e.g., 0.5-2% AUM); no standard pricing for retail or nonprofit use.
Handbid
specializedFacilitates mobile bidding and paddle raise events with customizable auctions for nonprofit organizations.
Text-to-bid and smartphone paddle system for frictionless, real-time bidding without hardware
Handbid is a mobile-first auction software platform designed specifically for nonprofits to run silent, live, and online auctions seamlessly. It enables bidders to participate via their smartphones, eliminating paper bid sheets and paddles, while providing organizers with real-time insights and event management tools. The software also includes donor management, text-to-bid features, and paddle raises to boost fundraising efficiency.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile bidding app that engages guests instantly
- Comprehensive tools for silent, live, and online auctions
- Reliable customer support with dedicated onboarding
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small nonprofits
- Initial setup requires some technical familiarity
- Limited advanced reporting compared to enterprise competitors
Best For
Mid-sized nonprofits hosting in-person or hybrid auction events that prioritize mobile bidder engagement.
Pricing
Event-based pricing starts at $1,995 per event; subscription plans from $99/month with setup fees around $1,500+.
BidZii
specializedPowers text-to-bid and online auctions with real-time updates and fundraising analytics for charities.
Text-to-bid functionality allowing guests to bid via SMS without downloading an app
BidZii is a mobile-first auction platform tailored for nonprofits, enabling silent, live, and online auctions through an intuitive app-based system. It streamlines bidder registration, real-time bidding, item management, and post-event reporting to maximize fundraising efficiency. Designed for gala-style events, it supports custom paddles, text-to-bid, and seamless payment processing.
Pros
- Robust mobile bidding with text-to-bid and no app required for guests
- Comprehensive tools for live, silent, and online auctions
- Excellent customer support and setup assistance
Cons
- Per-event pricing can add up for frequent small events
- Limited integrations with broader CRM systems
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customizations
Best For
Mid-sized nonprofits hosting annual gala auctions who prioritize mobile accessibility for bidders.
Pricing
Pay-per-event starting at $495 base fee for up to 100 bidders, plus $4.95 per additional bidder; annual unlimited plans from $2,995.
Silent Auction Pro
specializedSimplifies silent auctions with digital bidding sheets, paddles, and reporting for nonprofit events.
Text-to-Bid SMS functionality allowing guests to participate without downloading an app
Silent Auction Pro is a specialized software platform tailored for nonprofits running silent auctions at live fundraising events. It provides tools for bidder registration, real-time mobile bidding via app or text, item management, and seamless payment processing. The solution supports event staff with check-in kiosks, live updates, and post-event reporting to maximize fundraising efficiency.
Pros
- User-friendly mobile bidding app for guests
- Quick setup and bidder check-in process
- Integrated payment processing with multiple options
Cons
- Limited advanced donor CRM integration
- Reporting lacks deep customization
- Per-event pricing can become costly for frequent users
Best For
Small to mid-sized nonprofits hosting 1-4 live silent auction events per year who need a simple, mobile-first bidding solution.
Pricing
Event-based pricing starts at $299 for up to 200 bidders, with tiers up to $999 for larger events; annual subscriptions from $1,200 offer unlimited events.
AuctionMob
specializedOffers mobile-first auction software for check-in, bidding, and payments at nonprofit fundraisers.
SMS text-to-bid, allowing guests to participate without downloading an app
AuctionMob is a mobile-first auction platform tailored for nonprofit events, supporting silent, live, and online auctions with seamless bidder engagement. It enables quick setup for fundraisers, galas, and charity auctions through its intuitive app and web interface. Key functionalities include real-time bidding, item management, and integrated payments, making it suitable for event-based fundraising without long-term commitments.
Pros
- Mobile bidding app enhances guest engagement
- Quick event setup with minimal training required
- Reliable text-to-bid feature for accessibility
Cons
- Limited integrations with nonprofit CRMs or donor databases
- Per-event pricing can add up for frequent auctions
- Customization options are basic compared to enterprise solutions
Best For
Small to mid-sized nonprofits hosting occasional live or silent auction fundraisers who prioritize ease and mobile engagement.
Pricing
Per-event pricing starts at $499 for up to 200 bidders, scaling with attendee count; no subscription required.
Conclusion
Exploring the top nonprofit auction software highlights a diverse set of tools, each addressing unique event needs—from mobile bidding and live engagement to virtual and hybrid formats. At the top, GiveSmart shines as the leading choice, offering a comprehensive suite tailored to streamline auction management and boost fundraising for nonprofits. Strong alternatives like OneCause and Auctria also deliver standout solutions, with robust features that cater to specific event types, ensuring there’s a fitting option for nearly every organization.
Don’t miss out on transforming your nonprofit event—start with GiveSmart to unlock intuitive mobile bidding, seamless management, and impactful fundraising tools that turn gatherings into meaningful change drivers.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison