The shift to online fundraising during the pandemic wasn’t just a short-term fix. It’s a powerful lesson in what’s possible. Virtual fundraisers have opened the door to greater accessibility, broader reach, and lower costs. Whether it’s a live-streamed gala or an interactive trivia night, these events allow organisations to connect with supporters from anywhere, at any time. No venue hire or weather plan required.

In many ways, virtual fundraising has levelled the playing field. Smaller charities now have access to tools and audiences once reserved for major events, while donors can engage in a way that fits their lifestyle. From a single smartphone, someone can tune in, contribute, and feel part of something meaningful.

Our guide will walk you through how to host a virtual fundraiser step by step. From setting goals and choosing the right format, to promoting your event, keeping energy high, and recognising every supporter in a way that feels personal. Because when done well, a virtual fundraiser doesn’t feel like a backup plan, it feels like a breakthrough.

Step 1: Set clear goals and define your audience for your virtual fundraiser

Before jumping into platforms or planning fundraising events, start with the most important piece: why you’re online fundraising and who you’re talking to. Clarity here shapes everything else. From the tone of your messaging to the format of your event.

First, set an online fundraising goal. Be specific and realistic. Are you aiming to raise $5,000 to fund new equipment? $20,000 to support a specific program? A clear target not only helps guide planning, it also gives your supporters something tangible to rally behind.

Next, define your audience. Are you speaking to long-time donors who already know your mission? Are you trying to attract new supporters, local businesses, or corporate sponsors? Each group responds to different messaging and might prefer different styles of engagement — for example, a lighthearted trivia night might work well for new audiences, while loyal donors may appreciate a more personal behind-the-scenes event.

Tailoring the virtual fundraiser experience to your audience shows that you value their time and attention. It also increases the chances they’ll show up, and give generously.

Prezzee Tip: Create a simple audience profile or “supporter persona” to guide your decisions. What are their values? What motivates them to give? What kind of content do they engage with online?

Step 2: Choose your virtual fundraiser format

Now that you’ve defined your goals and audience, it’s time to pick the right format for your virtual fundraiser. The best events balance engagement with ease, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Below are some popular, proven options to consider:

7 creative virtual fundraising event ideas

Virtual galas

Bring the atmosphere of a traditional fundraiser online with guest speakers, performances, and a live donation tracker. Add in a dress code and meal delivery option to make it feel special — wherever your guests are.

Online auctions

Let supporters bid on donated goods or experiences via a simple auction platform. You can keep it open for a few days to maximise participation and excitement of your virtual fundraiser.

Peer-to-peer challenges

Get your community involved by encouraging them to set personal fundraising goals — like running 50km in a month, baking every day, or giving up coffee for a cause. Supporters virtually fundraise on your behalf and share their progress online.

Donation-matching campaigns

Partner with a sponsor or major donor to match every contribution made during a set period of time. This creates urgency and encourages bigger donations.

Virtual raffles or trivia nights

Easy to organise and fun to join — especially with prizes! Offer Prezzee digital gift cards as instant rewards to keep the energy up and thank participants for their time.

Virtual movie nights

Stream a film relevant to your cause and follow it with a panel discussion or Q&A. Great for creating emotional connection and fostering a deeper understanding of your mission.

Virtual classes or workshops

Think cooking lessons, yoga sessions, or art classes led by local experts. Donors get something valuable in return for their support, and it gives you a fresh way to engage them.

Prezzee Tip: Don’t be afraid to mix formats or try something unexpected when doing virtual fundraising — just keep your audience’s preferences and your campaign goals front and centre.

Step 3: Plan the program and tech setup

Once you’ve landed on your format, it’s time to map out how your virtual fundraiser event will actually run — and how to make sure the tech doesn’t let you down. A smooth, well-paced event helps build trust and keeps supporters engaged from start to finish.

Start by outlining a simple run sheet or agenda for your fundraising event. Include time blocks for key moments like welcomes, speeches, activities, and donation asks. Even if your event is casual, a clear structure helps things feel organised and professional.

Next, choose your tech tools for your virtual fundraiser. Here are a few reliable options to consider:

• Zoom or Microsoft Teams: Works best for interactive events like trivia, classes, or panel discussions.
• YouTube Live or Facebook Live: Works best for large-scale broadcasts or performances.
• Fundraising platforms: Use platforms like Raisely, Donorbox, or Funraisin’ to collect and track donations in real time.

No matter what you use, make sure to:

• Test everything in advance: Run a full tech rehearsal with your team — especially if you’re juggling multiple presenters or live streams.
• Assign roles: Have someone managing tech, another monitoring the chat, and someone ready to step in if something goes wrong during your fundraiser event.
• Have a Plan B: Share dial-in details or a backup link in case of last-minute glitches.

Remember, your supporters don’t expect perfection — but they do appreciate effort. A little preparation goes a long way toward creating a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Step 4: Promote your virtual fundraiser event

You’ve got your virtual fundraiser event planned — now it’s time to spread the word and get people excited. Promotion is where your virtual fundraiser really starts to come to life. A well-timed, well-targeted campaign can be the difference between a few RSVPs and a packed (virtual) house.

Start with the essentials:

• Create a branded landing page: Include event details, a clear call to action, and a countdown to build urgency.
• Use email marketing: Send a save-the-date for the fundraiser, a formal invite, and a few reminders as the event approaches.
• Go social: Share teaser content, behind-the-scenes previews, and shout-outs to sponsors or guest speakers.
• Consider paid ads or boosted posts: If you want to expand your reach — especially if you’re aiming to attract new donors.
• Build a promo toolkit:Include sample captions, images, and hashtags to make it easy for staff, volunteers, and partners to share within their networks.

Don’t forget the power of personal invites. A quick email or phone call to key supporters can make a big difference, especially when you tailor the message to what matters to them.

Prezzee Tip: If you’re running a peer-to-peer or challenge-style event, encourage participants to share their journey and fundraising pages across their social media.

Step 5: Make your virtual fundraiser engaging and personal

A successful virtual fundraiser isn’t just about raising money, it’s about creating connections. Without the energy of a room full of people, you need to work a little harder to keep things warm, fun, and human.

Here are some ways to spark engagement and make supporters of your fundraising event feel like part of something special:

• Include live polls, quizzes, or chat shout-outs: Keep energy high and encourage participation.
• Tell real stories: A short, heartfelt video from beneficiaries, staff, or volunteers can leave a lasting impression.
• Encourage live Q&As: Directly involve attendees by giving them a chance to ask questions. 
• Use a warm, inclusive tone: Whether it’s your MC, chat moderator, or social posts, think conversational, not broadcast.
• Offer spot prizes or giveaways: during the event — Prezzee digital gift cards  are perfect for this. They’re instant, personal, and give winners the freedom to choose something they’ll genuinely enjoy.
• Give your audience a role: Ask them to vote, share stories, or set challenges in real time. It transforms them from observers to active participants.

A little spontaneity and a few surprises can go a long way in keeping your audience present and engaged — even through a screen.

Step 6: Show appreciation and follow up after your virtual fundraiser

The fundraising event may be over, but your work isn’t. In fact, the moments after your event are some of the most powerful when it comes to deepening relationships and inspiring future support. Recognition is more than good manners, it’s part of your donor engagement strategy.

Start by saying thank you.

• Send a warm, personalised follow-up email: Ensure one is sent to everyone who attended, donated, or supported behind the scenes.
• Share the results: How much was raised, how many people participated, and what the funds will go toward. Transparency builds trust.
• Tag and thank supporters publicly: It lets them know they mattered, and shows others what being part of your community looks like.
• Thank them with a small gift: Send an instant, personalised Prezzee digital gift card to key supporters, volunteers, or prize winners. It’s a flexible, scalable way to reward generosity — and it feels thoughtful without being complicated. Whether it’s a $10 coffee voucher or a larger thank-you, it shows your gratitude in a way that feels immediate and genuine.

Prezzee Tip: Don’t let this be the last time they hear from you. Invite donors to sign up for updates, join your next event, or become regular supporters. When you follow up with heart, you keep the momentum going long after your virtual fundraiser ends.

Make every virtual fundraiser count

Virtual fundraisers aren't a fallback. It’s a future-ready way to connect with supporters, tell your story, and raise the funds that keep your mission moving. With thoughtful planning, the right tools, and a personal touch, a virtual event can be just as powerful as an in-person gathering.

From setting clear goals and choosing a format that fits, to creating moments of connection and following up with heartfelt thanks, every step plays a part in making your fundraiser a success.

And when it comes to recognising generosity, Prezzee’s digital gift cards make it easy to say thank you in a way that’s instant, personalised, and meaningful.

So go ahead: plan boldly, connect meaningfully, and give your supporters an experience they’ll remember. Because when you do, the generosity keeps flowing.

Virtual Fundraiser FAQs

What is a virtual fundraiser?

A virtual fundraiser is an online event or campaign designed to raise money for a cause. It might be a live-streamed gala, an online auction, a challenge event, or even a virtual trivia night. The goal is the same as any fundraiser — to engage supporters and raise funds — but it happens entirely online, using digital platforms and tools.

What are some easy virtual fundraising event ideas?

Some of the easiest (and most effective) ideas include virtual raffles, trivia nights, peer-to-peer challenges, and donation-matching campaigns. You could also host a virtual class, stream a film followed by a Q&A, or run an online auction. Whatever you choose, keep it simple, interactive, and aligned with your audience’s interests.

How do you thank donors after a virtual event?

Always follow up with a warm thank-you email that includes the impact of their donation. You can also post public shout-outs on social media, send a short video message from your team, or go one step further with a personalised Prezzee digital gift card. It’s a meaningful way to show gratitude instantly and make supporters feel truly appreciated.

What is the 80/20 rule in fundraising?

The 80/20 rule (also known as the Pareto Principle) suggests that roughly 80% of your donations often come from 20% of your donors. It’s a helpful reminder to identify and nurture your most engaged supporters — while also broadening your reach and building relationships with new donors over time