Gofundme Alternatives     |     30 May 2024

8 GoFundMe Alternatives You Need to Try

Exploring top crowdfunding solutions beyond GoFundMe

23 minute read

It used to be that fundraising organizations only had a few options to help crowdsource money from their supporters. Modern organizers have more options than ever, making it tough to decide how to proceed. 

With the digital age enabling more people to rally support for causes, innovations in how we fundraise are crucial. This need paves the way for a look beyond traditional tools like GoFundMe, urging us to explore other avenues that might align more closely with specific project needs or organizational goals.

As we explore the wide array of available options, it's clear that each platform has a unique set of features geared to different types of campaigns and fundraising goals. Finding the right platform can significantly enhance a campaign's reach and success, whether for a personal cause, a community project, or a large-scale nonprofit initiative.

Luckily, crowdfunding isn’t the only way to raise funds for your cause. Read on to explore eight GoFundMe alternatives that might be better suited for your needs. 

Snapshot reviews: Best features of top GoFundMe alternatives

• Silent Auction Pro: While this platform may not be structured for crowdfunding, it is an all-encompassing event management tool that simplifies fundraising with features like mobile bidding and automated notifications, making it ideal for organizers.
• Zeffy: Known for its zero-fee model, Zeffy ensures that 100% of donations reach the cause, perfect for nonprofits aiming to maximize their funding.
• Spotfund: This platform is great for simple, social-media-driven campaigns, offering a mobile-first approach that helps users quickly share and promote their causes.
• Bonfire: Bonfire excels in merchandise-driven fundraising, allowing organizations to design, sell, and ship customized merchandise directly linked to their campaigns.
• Fundly: With strong social media integration, Fundly extends your campaign’s reach by easily connecting with platforms like Facebook to engage a wider audience.
• Givebutter: Ideal for tech-savvy nonprofits, Givebutter integrates with numerous third-party apps, enhancing campaign management with advanced digital tools.
• GiveCampus: Specifically designed for educational institutions, GiveCampus offers specialized tools to boost fundraising efforts and engage alumni and students.
• Kickstarter is the premier platform for creative projects needing seed funding. It connects artists and technologists with backers to support various artistic and technological projects.
• Patreon: Catering to creators seeking sustained patronage, Patreon allows artists and writers to build a subscriber base for a steady stream of support through exclusive content and perks.

A brief history of crowdfunding

Crowdfunding has come a long way from its early beginnings to the multifaceted digital platforms we know today. Originally, fundraising was largely limited to traditional methods such as mail campaigns, telephone calls, and in-person events. However, the Internet ushered in a new era of fundraising possibilities.

The first notable instance of online crowdfunding emerged in the late 1990s when fans of the British rock band Marillion raised $60,000 through an internet campaign to fund a North American tour. This success demonstrated the potential of using the Internet for collective fundraising, paving the way for the following platforms.

In the early 2000s, platforms like ArtistShare became the first dedicated crowdfunding websites, allowing musicians to fund projects through online donations from fans. This concept quickly spread across various fields, from music to invention and eventually to personal fundraising.

GoFundMe launched in 2010, marking a significant milestone in crowdfunding history. It expanded the scope of crowdfunding to include personal causes, from medical expenses to educational projects, making it easier for individuals to solicit support directly from their networks and beyond. This democratization of fundraising has since transformed how people think about and engage with charitable giving.

Understanding GoFundMe and its role in fundraising

GoFundMe is a popular online platform that has made its mark as a go-to resource for individuals, groups, and organizations looking to raise money for various causes. It's a space where anyone can set up a campaign to solicit financial support from the public for emergencies, charitable causes, community projects, and personal ventures.

How GoFundMe works

Setting up a campaign on GoFundMe is pretty straightforward. Users create a page detailing their fundraising needs with stories, photos, and videos to illustrate their cause. Once live, the page can be shared across social media networks, email, and other online channels to attract donations from around the globe.

The platform allows donors to contribute directly through the campaign page. Depending on the donor's capacity and inclination, these contributions can range from small monetary amounts to larger sums. Every donation is immediately added to the campaign's total, visible to anyone visiting the page.

Why people choose GoFundMe

One of the main reasons GoFundMe has become so popular is its ease of use. Anyone with a basic understanding of the Internet can start a campaign in a few simple steps. Additionally, the platform's ability to integrate with social media makes it highly effective in spreading the word quickly and efficiently, increasing the potential for donations.

GoFundMe has also built a reputation for security and trustworthiness. It ensures that funds are collected and transferred securely, providing both donors and recipients peace of mind. The platform also has measures to verify the authenticity of campaigns and protect against fraud.

Real-life impact

Throughout its existence, GoFundMe has facilitated the collection of billions of dollars for causes ranging from medical expenses and disaster relief to funding education and supporting local businesses. Each campaign story often touches on personal challenges and community needs, showcasing the platform's significant role in bringing communities together to support each other in need.

For example, a pair of high school students in San Jose, CA, started an organization called the Bellarmine Lunch Bag Initiative (BLBI) that made sandwiches for the homeless in the city’s downtown. They raised over $20,000 for supplies. The largest fundraiser to date was for America’s Food Fun, launched by Laurene Powell and Leonardo DiCaprio. It raised 44.6 million. 

In essence, GoFundMe simplifies the process of gathering financial support, making it accessible and feasible for anyone to help others and make a difference in their communities or across borders. It goes beyond just fundraising by creating communities that unite people to support common causes.

Why explore GoFundMe alternatives?

If GoFundMe is so easy to use and has a track record of success, why should anyone consider alternatives? Is GoFundMe the best option? Is it the only option? While this popular platform has established itself as a leader in crowdfunding, it’s simply not the best solution for everyone. With a little research, you’ll find plenty of better options than GoFundMe, depending on your needs. 

Several factors might lead organizers to consider alternatives:

1. High transaction fees

High fees, for instance, can be a deterrent, especially when every penny counts. GoFundMe charges a transaction fee for each donation, which, while standard across the industry, can add up and diminish the total funds raised.

2. Geographical limitations

Geographical limitations pose a significant barrier. GoFundMe supports several countries, leaving many potential users without a viable option within their region. This restriction can be particularly challenging for international campaigns or for organizers in countries not supported by the platform.

3. Platform limitations

Platform limitations, such as a lack of customization in campaign pages or restricted communication tools, can hinder an organizer's ability to engage with donors effectively. When your campaign needs to stand out or you need more control over your fundraising tools, these limitations can stifle creativity and reduce effectiveness.

4. Fear of abuse

While most GoFundMe campaigns are legit, scammers have found their way onto the platform. The founders of the infamous We Build the Wall campaign were sentenced to prison for tricking people into donating to a fund that was supposed to help build a wall across our southern border. Instead, it just built the wealth of those behind it. It’s easy for users to fake cancer diagnoses or come up with other sob stories to gain sympathy and support. 

5. Fast-food philanthropy

Unlike traditional fundraising, Crowdfunding gives people a quick, temporary feeling of satisfaction. They throw a couple of dollars at a cause, feel good about it, and then forget about it. While every dollar counts when raising funds, crowdfunding lacks a commitment to making recurring gifts to causes worth supporting over time. 

Recognizing these challenges doesn’t mean GoFundMe isn’t effective, but it does underscore the importance of considering other platforms that might better fit your needs and alleviate the fear of abuse. 

Key features to look for in a fundraising platform

When searching for an effective fundraising platform, several key features should be at the forefront of your decision-making process:

• Low fees: Maximizing the funds that go directly to the cause means seeking platforms with minimal fees. That ensures more donated money supports the cause rather than covering administrative costs.
• Ease of use: The platform should be user-friendly, enabling both fundraisers and donors to navigate the site or app easily. A straightforward setup process and intuitive design can help attract and retain supporters.
• Flexible campaign options: Different causes require different types of support. Look for platforms that offer a range of tools, such as options for one-time donations, recurring donations, and event-based fundraising.
• Diverse payment options: A platform with multiple payment methods is ideal for accommodating donors from various locations. This inclusivity helps ensure everyone who wants to contribute can do so without hassle.
• Robust customer support: The platform's strong support helps resolve issues swiftly and provides guidance on fundraising best practices. This support can be invaluable, especially for those new to organizing campaigns.

Each of these features plays a critical role in the overall effectiveness of a fundraising campaign. By carefully considering what each platform offers, organizers can better match their needs with the right tools, leading to more successful outcomes and a smoother fundraising experience.

GoFundMe alternatives worth exploring

Silent Auction Pro

www.silentauctionpro.com/

When exploring the vast number of crowdfunding and fundraising platforms, one option that often flies under the radar is Silent Auction Pro. This platform, known for its comprehensive approach to event management, excels at handling the intricacies of silent auctions, live events, and raffles. What sets Silent Auction Pro apart is its suite of features designed to streamline the entire process of organizing a fundraiser.

Why Silent Auction Pro stands out

Silent Auction Pro offers a robust solution for fundraising event managers. This platform simplifies the complexities of such tasks, from the initial planning stages to the final execution. Features like online and mobile bidding, integrated payment processing, and detailed event reports make it a preferred choice for many organizers.

The platform especially benefits volunteers or part-time organizers who pull off professional-level events without the usual resources. Its user-friendly interface allows easy management of ticket sales, seating arrangements, and donor tracking, ensuring that even those new to fundraising can execute a successful event.

Pricing, value, and support

One of Silent Auction Pro's most appealing aspects is its competitive pricing structure. The platform offers various packages built to different needs and budgets, allowing organizations to select features that suit their event size and complexity. This flexibility ensures that you're only paying for what you need, making it a cost-effective alternative to other platforms that might include unnecessary features at a higher cost.

Silent Auction Pro also offers world-class support. Beyond their extended operating hours (Mon - Fri: 9:00 am Eastern to 7:00 pm Pacific and Sat-Sun: 12:00 pm Eastern to 5:00 pm Pacific), they always offer a free night of event support, even if your event is outside of normal company hours. 

Throw in how-to help videos, free webinars, and an informative blog, and you’ll see why more organizations are turning to Silent Auction Pro for their event management and fundraising needs. 

Other great fundraising and crowdfunding platforms for nonprofits

While we might have a slight bias towards Silent Auction Pro, it's important to consider a variety of platforms to ensure you find the one that perfectly fits your needs. Here are some other notable GoFundMe alternatives, each with unique features that make them worthy of consideration.

Zeffy

www.zeffy.com/

Zeffy stands out in fundraising as it charges no fees to its users. It operates entirely on voluntary contributions from its donors, meaning more money goes directly to the cause. This model benefits small nonprofits or community groups working with tight budgets.

Key features

• 100% free for all users with no hidden costs.
• Allows integration with a range of third-party services to enhance campaign capabilities.
• Offers tools for event ticketing and donor management.

Pricing and efficiency

Zeffy charges its users absolutely no fees, not even payment processing fees, often covered by optional donor tips. This unique model maximizes the efficiency of each dollar raised, ensuring that 100% of the funds donated directly benefit the cause. The only downside is that the tipping feature can often confuse users, which means they may pay more than anticipated. You may not find all of the functionality with a free service that you would with a paid option, but this could be a great option for small or starting out organizations. 

Spotfund

www.spotfund.com

Spotfund excels at making fundraising as straightforward as possible, especially for campaigns that leverage social media for outreach. A mobile-first approach allows organizers to set up and share their campaigns quickly and efficiently.

Key features

• There is a low barrier to entry, and setup is achievable in minutes.
• Social media integrations that maximize campaign visibility and engagement.
• A user-friendly interface that simplifies donation collection.

Pricing and simplicity

Spotfund offers a straightforward pricing model with no platform fees; users only cover standard payment processing fees. This simplicity ensures that almost the entire donation amount directly supports the cause, making Spotfund a compelling option for quick and effective social media-driven campaigns.

Bonfire

www.bonfire.com

Bonfire provides an excellent platform for campaigns that want to offer something tangible in return for donations. Users can design and sell custom merchandise, such as t-shirts and hats, with the proceeds going directly to their cause. It is ideal for organizations looking to boost engagement through physical goods.

Pricing and impact

Bonfire operates on a cost-per-item basis, deducting a base cost for manufacturing and a small fee for its service from each sale. This pricing model means organizations can set up campaigns at no upfront cost and focus on creating appealing merchandise to boost their fundraising efforts. 

Key features

• Tools to design and sell custom merchandise.
• Direct shipping to buyers, reducing logistical hassles for organizers.
• Allows for creating custom campaign pages featuring videos, updates, and more.

Fundly

www.fundly.com

Fundly is highly regarded for its deep integration with social media platforms, making it an ideal choice for campaigns that rely heavily on word-of-mouth reach. Its platform allows users to easily share their campaigns across various social networks, significantly enhancing visibility and engagement.

Key features

• Direct integration with Facebook and other social media platforms to maximize exposure.
• Highly customizable campaign pages that allow for videos, blogs, and more.
• Mobile-optimized design to ensure donors have easy access to any device.

Pricing and impact

Fundly charges a standard processing fee (2.9% + $0.30 per transaction) but does not impose any platform fees, ensuring that a larger portion of donations goes directly to the cause. This structure makes it accessible for smaller campaigns that need to maximize every dollar raised.

Givebutter

givebutter.com

Givebutter is a favorite among nonprofits for its vast array of integration options. It supports over a thousand third-party applications, making it one of the most versatile platforms for fundraising events that need to synchronize with existing tech ecosystems.

Key features

• Comprehensive integration capabilities with tools like CRM systems, marketing software, and more.
• Features like text-to-donate and peer-to-peer fundraising to improve donor engagement.
• Real-time tracking of donations with analytics to monitor campaign success.

Pricing and value

Givebutter offers its platform services for free, with a nominal fee charged only on transactions (2.9% + $0.30 per transaction). This approach allows organizations to utilize advanced features without a significant upfront investment, making it a great option for growing nonprofits.

GiveCampus

go.givecampus.com

GiveCampus is specifically for educational institutions, from K-12 schools to large universities. It provides tools that cater to the unique needs of educational fundraising, making it a preferred choice for academic fundraisers.

Key features

• Specialized tools for alumni engagement and capital campaigns.
• Integration with educational databases and student information systems.
• Features that facilitate scholarship funds, annual giving, and more.

Pricing and accessibility

GiveCampus offers a range of pricing plans based on the institution's size and the breadth of services required. This customized pricing ensures that educational institutions can maximize their fundraising efforts without overspending on unnecessary features.

Kickstarter

www.kickstarter.com

Kickstarter is renowned for helping bring creative projects to life. From indie films to innovative gadgets, it provides a platform for creators to fund projects that might not find support through traditional funding channels. Nonprofits that are getting ready to launch a new creative endeavor often use Kickstarter to build support. 

Key features

• A project-based crowdfunding model ideal for launching new products or artistic endeavors.
• A strong community of backers interested in supporting unique and innovative ideas.
• Milestone-based funding allows creators to receive funds as they meet specific goals.

Pricing and structure

Kickstarter operates on an all-or-nothing model, where funds are only collected if the project reaches its goal. This setup encourages creators to actively promote their projects and engage with their backers. Kickstarter charges 5% of the total funds raised and processing fees of 3% to 5%. If the funding doesn’t reach its goal, there are no fees. 

Patreon

www.patreon.com

Patreon is a platform designed for artists and creators to receive ongoing support from their fans and followers. Unlike project-based platforms, Patreon allows creators to build a subscriber base with a steady income stream. This platform is a great way for nonprofits that produce content, like podcasts, YouTube channels, blogs, and more, to gain support from their supporters. 

Key features

• Monthly subscriptions where fans can support their favorite creators.
• Allows creators to offer subscribers exclusive content, early access, and special perks.
• Tools to manage and grow a community around creative work.

Pricing and benefits

Patreon's pricing model is based on a percentage of the funds raised, ensuring that creators retain a significant portion of their earnings. This model is ideal for creators who seek consistent support rather than one-time project funding. Organizations can choose from a variety of membership levels for different pricing options. The most popular, the Pro level, takes 8% of the income earned on Patreon. 

Choosing the Right Platform for Your Fundraising Needs

Selecting the ideal platform for your fundraising campaign involves carefully evaluating each option's features against your specific needs. Consider starting with smaller campaigns or tests to gauge the platform's effectiveness and ensure it aligns with your goals and audience.

• Assess your campaign's scope: Determine whether your campaign is local, national, or international. Some platforms better support global outreach than others.
• Understand your audience: Choose a platform that resonates with your potential donors. For example, younger audiences might be more engaged through social media-driven campaigns, while more traditional donors prefer straightforward donation pages.
• Evaluate technical needs: If your campaign requires complex integrations or specific customization, look for platforms like Givebutter or Silent Auction Pro that offer these capabilities.

Tips for creating a successful campaign

A successful fundraising campaign requires more than just a good idea; it needs strategic execution. Here are some essential tips to help you set up and run an effective campaign:

• Set realistic goals: Clearly define your goals and set attainable financial targets. This practice helps you plan and communicate your needs to potential donors.
• Tell a compelling story: Your campaign should connect with people. Include details about who you are, what you are raising funds for, and why it matters. Authenticity can significantly boost donor engagement.
• Engage with donors: Active engagement is key to maintaining interest in your campaign. Update your donors regularly about the progress of your project, and show appreciation for their support.
• Leverage social media: Use social media platforms to spread the word about your campaign. Adapt your message to different platforms and use visuals, such as images and videos, to enhance engagement.

Common challenges and how to overcome them

Every fundraising campaign presents several challenges that can hinder its success. Here are some common hurdles and strategies to overcome them:

• Slow fundraising progress: To keep momentum, create mini-goals and celebrate when each is achieved, keeping the campaign in the public eye and maintaining donor interest.
• Reaching the right audience: Customize your message to appeal to your specific target audience. Use targeted advertising and outreach to connect with those most likely to support your cause.
• Managing post-campaign responsibilities: Plan in advance how you will manage funds and follow up on the commitments made during the campaign. Transparency with your donors about how funds are used can build trust and pave the way for future support.

Making the most of your fundraising platform

The effectiveness of your choice in fundraising platforms can greatly influence the success of your campaign. While exploring these alternatives to GoFundMe, consider the unique benefits other platforms can offer. 

We encourage you to consider these platforms and explore Silent Auction Pro further. Request a demo today and see how it can transform your next fundraising effort into a smoother, more successful experience for everyone involved.