Virtual Fundraising Event

What Is a Virtual Event?

A virtual event is a fully online fundraiser where guests participate remotely using their computer or mobile device. With BetterUnite, organizations can create completely virtual events such as online or silent auctions, live-streamed fundraisers, or virtual walk/run events.

Virtual events include the same core functionality as in-person events, delivered through an immersive online experience. Guests can register, preauthorize their payment method, donate, bid in auctions, participate in fund-a-need or paddle raise activities, and purchase event offers all online.

If you include a live stream (such as Zoom or YouTube Live), guests can watch the stream while interacting with your event, auctions, and donation options in one seamless experience.

Types of Virtual Events You Can Create

With BetterUnite, you can host:

• Completely virtual or online auctions

• Virtual galas or live-streamed fundraising events

• Virtual walk/run or challenge-based fundraisers

• Hybrid events (in-person + virtual guests)

Each event type uses the same flexible event tools, allowing you to tailor the experience to your audience.

How to Set Up a Virtual Event

To create a virtual event:

1. Click Start from your Home, Giving Pages, or Events page.

2. Select the type of event you are setting up (all of these can be ran virtually.)

3. Enter your event details and configure your fundraising tools.

Virtual events do not use traditional tables of tickets. Instead, each guest registers individually and receives a secure link to access and participate in the event. You can set up an individual ticket type for $0 to collect the information you need. 

You can add live-stream details closer to the event start time. Desktop users will see the embedded stream alongside the event interface. 

Helpful setup articles:

• How to Set Up an Event in BetterUnite

• Online-Only Bidder Registration (Perfect for online auctions where you don't want to create tickets.

• Setting Up a Donation or Giving Page (For online donation only fundraisers where there is no registration needed and no "guest" participation other than to donate.)

Virtual Auctions & Fundraising Features

Virtual events support:

• Silent and live auctions

• Fund-a-need / paddle raise

• Event offers and donations

You control when items are visible and available. For example, silent auctions can open days before your event, and live auction items can be set to View Only until they are activated during the live program.

Guest Experience & Notifications

Once an online only event is launched, registered guests receive:

• A confirmation email and text with their secure event link via your Guest Experience Link settings.

• Automated reminders 3 days before and 1 hour before the event begins. Some of these are scheduled automatically, but you can change or set additional ones in the Communications.

This ensures guests are ready to participate, no app downloads or logins required.