14 Best Online Auction Sites for Nonprofit Fundraising (Updated 2025)

Did you know that nearly a quarter of donors now give through online auctions, and the auction software market is expected to cross $600 million by 2033? That’s massive fundraising potential that is just waiting to be tapped.

Charity auction sites are becoming a vital part of fundraising strategies because they make every dollar count.

You get to slash overhead costs: no venue rentals, catering bills, or printed auction catalogs. Plus, younger donors who might skip traditional galas now get to engage from their phones during their lunch breaks.

To help you navigate this booming landscape, we’ve put together a curated list of the 14 best online auction sites for nonprofits in 2025.

Quick comparison of top 10 nonprofit auction platforms (2025)

What are online auction sites, and why should you use one?

Try to visualize this: your local animal shelter desperately needs new kennels. Hosting a gala sounds glamorous, but before a single dollar is raised, thousands would vanish on venue fees, catering, and décor.

Instead, they list donated items on an online auction site. Bids start arriving from across town, the country, and even overseas, while staff focus on caring for the animals rather than juggling logistics.

This is what nonprofit auction sites do. Items are showcased with photos, bids are tracked in real time, payments are processed securely, and receipts are sent automatically.

Benefits of using auction software for events

Here’s how moving to a fundraising auction site helps your cause:

• Lower costs: Save on venues, catering, and printing, keeping more funds for your mission.
• Bigger reach: Unlike local galas, the biggest auction sites let supporters bid from anywhere.
• 24/7 access: With nonprofit auctions online, donors can take part whenever it suits them.
• Less admin work: Bidding, payments, and follow-up run automatically in the background.
• Smart data: Track bidding trends and use those insights to refine your next fundraising auction site event.

With the best online auction sites, your supporters can join in from their couch, their commute, or even across the country. It’s fundraising that fits into their lives and yours.

Core features of online auction software

Understanding these core features helps organizations select platforms that meet both donor expectations and operational requirements.

• Mobile bidding technology: A majority of auction participants now bid exclusively from mobile devices, making responsive design and intuitive mobile interfaces non-negotiable.
• Real-time bid tracking: Live bid updates with instant notifications keep participants engaged throughout the event, while automatic bid increment controls prevent confusion and ensure fair competition.
• Automated payment processing: Integrated payment systems handle credit cards, digital wallets, and ACH transfers securely.
• Item management systems: Comprehensive catalog tools allow unlimited item uploads with multiple photos, detailed descriptions, starting bids, and buy-now options to maximize revenue potential.
• Multi-campaign support: The best online auction sites enable organizations to run simultaneous auctions, raffles, and crowdfunding campaigns from unified platforms.
• Donor management integration: CRM connectivity ensures auction participants automatically become part of ongoing stewardship programs, converting one-time bidders into long-term supporters.
• Analytics and reporting: Detailed performance metrics track bidding patterns, participant engagement, and revenue optimization opportunities, enabling data-driven improvements for future events.
• Customization and branding: White-label options allow nonprofits to maintain a consistent brand identity across all auction touchpoints, from registration pages to winning notifications.

These event features combine to create nonprofit auction platforms that not only facilitate bidding but also actively enhance donor relationships and organizational fundraising capacity.

Top 14 best online auction sites for nonprofits

To make the decision easier, here’s a look at the top 14 best online auction sites for nonprofits and what sets them apart:

1. RallyUp – Best all-in-one online auction site

Ideal for: Organizations looking for complete nonprofit auction software tools for online, hybrid, and live events.

Back in 2012, RallyUp was born from a simple belief: fundraising shouldn’t be complicated or expensive. The founders watched nonprofits struggle with clunky, costly platforms and decided to build something different. 

Today, RallyUp stands as the leading platform offering ease of use with all the features you need. The unique “Auction Gifts” feature lets supporters donate even when they don’t win, something you literally won’t find anywhere else.

Pros: 

• Free options available
• Unique Auction Gifts feature
• Run silent, online, live or hybrid auctions 
• Host galas and events
• Combines multiple fundraising types
• Mobile-optimized 

Cons: 

• No tap-to-pay (Feature coming soon!)

RallyUp Pricing: 

• Free plan with optional donor tips
• Flex plan starting from a 2.9% platform fee
• Processing fee from 1.9% to 2.9%, plus $0.30 per transaction.

2. OneCause

Ideal for: Nonprofits running fundraising events with significant budgets and auction components.

OneCause has operated in the nonprofit space for over 15 years, building its platform around comprehensive event management. 

Their Auction AI helps with crafting item descriptions and showing bidders items likely to interest them, emphasizing integration between different fundraising activities within events.

Pros: 

• AI-powered optimization
• Extensive experience
• Comprehensive event management
• Mobile bidding app 

Cons: 

• Premium pricing
• Can be complex for smaller organizations
• Requires training 

Pricing: 

• Pay-as-you-go model with upfront amount of $500 + 5% pay-later fee on funds raised
• Annual subscription starting at $2,995
• Transaction fee applicable

3. Zeffy

Ideal for: Small nonprofits with no budget for an auction tool. 

Zeffy is a web-based nonprofit auction software for online fundraisers. However, there is no dedicated bidding app, so you will struggle to run successful events end-to-end and might need additional tools.

Pros: 

• Claims to be 100% free
• Silent auction features

Cons: 

• An optional tip system can confuse some donors
• Fewer advanced features than premium platforms
• Ideal for grassroots-level NPOs

Pricing: Free (supported by donor tips)

4. GoFundMe Pro (formerly Classy)

Ideal for: National nonprofits and organizations wanting to scale their auction reach.

The result of GoFundMe’s acquisition of Classy, this platform combines professional fundraising tools with access to GoFundMe’s large donor community.

GoFundMe Pro focuses on connecting charity auction sites to broader fundraising ecosystems, offering AI-powered optimization based on extensive donor data across their network.

Pros: 

• Access to a large donor network
• AI-powered optimization
• Comprehensive event tools

Cons: 

• Premium pricing
• May be overkill for simple live auctions
• Learning curve for advanced features 

Pricing: 

• Custom pricing with fees for add-on features
• Processing fees: Typically 2.2%–2.5% + $0.30 per transaction, with a 1% additional fee for American Express.

5. Bloomerang Fundraising (formerly Qgiv)

Ideal for: Nonprofits mainly looking for a CRM platform with additional auction features.

Following its acquisition by Bloomerang Fundraising (formerly Qgiv), the platform has integrated auction functionality with donor management capabilities.

The platform emphasizes the donor journey beyond single auction events. They do this by focusing on converting auction participants into long-term supporters through integrated CRM features.

Pros:

• Integrated donor management
• User-friendly interface
• Strong customer support
• Mobile bidding 

Cons:

• Pricing can add up with multiple features
• Limited customization options 

Pricing: 

• $259/month or $687/quarter for auctions
• Transaction fees: 3.95% + $0.30 per transaction, with 1% fee for American Express

6. GalaBid

Ideal for: International nonprofit organizations wanting comprehensive features.

Launched in the UK and now operating globally, GalaBid runs on a “pay-what-you-wish” model: winners can voluntarily add a tip to cover platform costs. 

That means nonprofits can access 100+ features without mandatory fees, making it an accessible online auction example.

Pros: 

• 100+ features completely free
• Mobile experience
• Overtime bidding

Cons: 

• Not easy to use
• Integrates only with Stripe for payments
• Outdated donor experience

Pricing: 

• Free with voluntary donor tips
• Paid plans from a 4.9% software/platform fee
• For larger events: $1,250 per campaign
• Transaction fee applicable on all plans: 2.9% + $0.30

RallyUp vs. GalaBid: Find the best tool for nonprofit live auctions

7. BiddingOwl

Ideal for: Small to medium nonprofits wanting reliable auction software with direct support.

BiddingOwl was built for nonprofits tired of juggling spreadsheets. Their model is simple – you only pay a fee if an item sells. No upfront charges, no monthly subscriptions. It’s a lean, straightforward charity auction site for nonprofits that don’t want to gamble on heavy fees.

Pros: 

• Direct customer support
• Pay-only-if-items-sell model
• Mobile-friendly

Cons: 

• Limited integration options
• Basic reporting features
• 5% fee on winning bids 

Pricing: 

• 5% of winning bids only
• Standard transaction fees apply

8. 32auctions

Ideal for: Nonprofits wanting straightforward auction tools without complexity.

32auctions maintains a minimalist approach to online auction sites, focusing on core auction functionality without additional complexity. They offer both free and paid tiers based on auction size and features needed.

Pros: 

• Long track record
• Free plan available
• Supports multiple currencies 

Cons: 

• Limited features on the free plan
• Basic design
• Not the easiest to use

Pricing: 

• Free for up to 20 items (only 1 image per item allowed)
• Pricing varies from $100-$770 per campaign based on features and the number of items
• Transaction fee of 2.9% + $0.40 per online payment or donation, in addition to the Stripe or PayPal transaction fees

9. ClickBid

Ideal for: Traditional nonprofits hosting in-person events with varied tech comfort levels.

ClickBid has been around for over 20 years, making sure charity auction sites are accessible to donors of all tech levels. One standout feature is text bidding, which lets supporters place bids via SMS with absolutely no app downloads needed.

Pros: 

• Extensive experience
• Text bidding capability
• Dedicated support team 

Cons: 

• Higher pricing for full features
• Limited customization
• Fewer modern features 

Pricing: 

Three tiers:

• Essentials ($795/year)
• Enhanced ($1,295/year)
• Full Suite ($2,295/year)
• Credit card fees of 3.5% applicable to all plans

10. GiveSmart

Ideal for: Organizations running sophisticated galas and events beyond just auctions.

Created by Community Brands, GiveSmart is an event management tool that handles galas, hybrid fundraisers, and auctions all in one. Strong analytics and hybrid functionality make it especially popular with schools and educational institutions.

Pros: 

• Comprehensive event management
• Hybrid event capabilities
• Detailed analytics
• Dedicated support 

Cons: 

• Can be complex for simple auctions
• Pricing is not transparent
• Difficult learning curve 

Pricing:

• Pricing not mentioned on the site
• As per the reviews on Capterra: $2,395/year + 3.5% transaction fees

11. Greater Giving

Ideal for: Large nonprofits and schools with significant fundraising events and budgets.

Operating since 2002, Greater Giving has focused on comprehensive auction and event solutions for larger nonprofit events. 

The company provides strategic guidance, training programs, and on-site event support for organizations with substantial fundraising operations.

Pros: 

• Extensive experience
• Comprehensive training
• On-site support available

Cons: 

• Higher cost structure
• May be overwhelming for small organizations
• Complex setup

Pricing: 

• Pricing not mentioned on the site
• As per Selecthub reviews: Starting from $130/month
• Transaction fees applicable

12. Charity Auctions Today

Ideal for: Nonprofits prioritizing visual appeal and simplicity over complex features 

Charity Auctions Today is known for its sleek templates and for making auctions look professional without much setup time. As a fundraising auction site, it’s ideal for groups that value design and simplicity over deep customization.

Pros: 

• Design-focused templates
• Quick setup

Cons: 

• Limited event management features
• Fewer integrations
• Basic reporting 

Pricing: 

• Free plan available with 5% platform fees
• Paid plans starting from $297/month
• Transaction fees of 3% + $0.30

13. Handbid

Ideal for: Organizations with tech-savvy donor demographics who primarily use mobile devices.

Handbid was built with smartphones in mind. Their app delivers real-time push notifications, smooth bidding, and social sharing tools, creating an experience that feels familiar to anyone used to shopping online. Among charity auction sites, it stands out for being mobile-first.

Pros: 

• Mobile-optimized experience
• Social sharing features
• Real-time notifications
• Modern design 

Cons: 

• Higher pricing
• App-dependent experience
• Limited customization options 

Pricing: 

• Packages starting at $1,396/year
• Processing fees of 3.5% + $0.30

14. Auctria

Ideal for: Organizations with complex auction logistics and multiple volunteer coordinators.

Born out of a school auction that outgrew spreadsheets, Auctria now supports nonprofits with detailed logistics tools. It handles multiple auction types, volunteer coordination, and robust item management, making it one of the most flexible online auction sites available.

Pros: 

• Comprehensive item management
• Volunteer coordination tools
• Flexible auction types
• Reasonable pricing 

Cons: 

• Interface can feel dated
• Steeper learning curve
• Limited mobile optimization 

Pricing: 

• Free plan available (only for $10,000 total income per year)
• Paid plans from $375-$750 per year
• Several add-ons also applicable
• Auctria charges a processing fee with their optional integrated credit card processing; the processor’s own fees are separate

9 must-ask questions for charity auction platforms

Let’s be real, choosing the wrong online auction site can turn your fundraising dreams into a logistical nightmare.

Ask these questions during your next auction software demo:

1. What’s your actual fee structure, and are there any hidden costs? 

Don’t just ask about platform fees; dig into payment processing, setup charges, monthly subscriptions, and those sneaky “convenience fees” that pop up later.

Some charity auction sites advertise low rates but hit you with surprise costs during checkout.

2. Can you handle our event size without crashing? 

Nothing kills auction momentum like a frozen bidding platform. Ask about their server capacity, what happens during high-traffic moments, and whether they’ve successfully managed events similar to yours in size and scope.

3. How does mobile bidding actually work for our supporters? 

Since most people will bid from their phones, test the mobile experience yourself. Is it intuitive enough for your board members? Can bidders easily track their activity without getting frustrated and giving up?

4. What kind of support do you provide before, during, and after our event? 

Some platforms offer 24/7 chat support, while others leave you hanging with a help article when your auction goes live. Find out if you’ll have a dedicated contact person or if you’ll be stuck in a support ticket queue.

5. How do payments and payouts work? 

Ask about payment processing times, which payment methods you can accept, and how quickly funds reach your account. Some nonprofit auction sites hold payments for weeks, which can mess with your cash flow.

6. Can we customize the platform to match our brand?

Your auction should look and feel like it belongs to your organization, not like a generic template. Ask about logo placement, color customization, and custom branding.

7. What reporting and analytics do you provide? 

You’ll need data to measure success and plan future events. Find out what reports are available, whether you can export donor information, and how detailed the bidding analytics are.

8. Do you integrate with our existing donor management system? 

If you’re using a CRM, the best online auction site should play nicely with it. Ask about CRM integrations with platforms like Bloomerang, Salesforce, or the system you’re currently using.

9. What happens if we need to make changes during our live auctions? 

Sometimes you need to extend auction times, add last-minute items, or fix descriptions on the fly. Make sure the platform allows real-time edits without breaking everything.

These are the most common needs, but if you have more specific requirements, like international bidding capabilities or multi-language, you should absolutely ask about those too.

Finding the best online auction site for your nonprofit fundraising

Choosing the best online auction site goes way beyond checking off feature boxes. It’s about finding a platform that clicks with your team and clicks with your donors. 

You want something that simplifies your workload instead of adding to it. Something that makes supporters excited to bid, not frustrated with clunky interfaces. The trick? Don’t get dazzled by the cheapest option or the fanciest dashboard.

Instead, think about tomorrow, not just today. Will this platform grow with you? Can your supporters actually use it without calling for help? And here’s the real question – can you layer in other fundraising activities without juggling multiple platforms?

Smart nonprofits want flexibility. They want options. That’s exactly why RallyUp has become the go-to fundraising auction site: auctions, raffles, crowdfunding, and more, all working together seamlessly.