You’re on the lookout for a lucrative, highly engaging fundraiser—and you’ve decided that hosting an online auction is the perfect solution. Your team can’t wait to gather your community of supporters together for an unforgettable evening and earn increased revenue through competitive bidding. But first, you need to acquire the tools to plan a standout auction.
Whether you’re fundraising for a school or a nonprofit, having the right online auction software will make the entire process easier for your team, allowing you to focus on providing top-notch experiences for your attendees.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top online auction software solutions for you to consider. If you need some additional tips to guide your decision-making, read on to the end to find the answers to some frequently asked questions about auction platforms.
You’ve got ambitious auction goals. SchoolAuction.net will help you get there.
Comparing the Best Online Auction Software Options
The ideal auction management software for your organization will depend on your specific needs, goals, and resources. Since there are so many compelling options available, we’ve done the research for you and compiled the top solutions below:
Software |
Best For |
Top Features |
Pricing |
| 1. SchoolAuction.net | All online, silent, and virtual live auctions | Easy guest self-check-in and checkout | Plans start at $79/event or $1,000/year |
| 2. Qgiv | Additional fundraising options | Raffles, a “buy now” option, and other fundraising tools | Starts at $259/month |
| 3. Snowball | Mobile bidding app | Text-to-bid | Starts at $849/year |
| 4. ReadySetAuction | Data-driven auction strategies | Data analysis and reporting | Starts at $1,099/year |
| 5. GiveSmart | Donor management | Automated donor communications | Contact GiveSmart for pricing |
| 6. OneCause | Guest experience | Livestreaming tools | Contact OneCause for pricing |
| 7. Silent Auction Pro | After-hours availability | Free support and coaching | Starts at $749/year |
| 8. Auctria | Beginner auction planning | Event website templates | Free to start (with credit card and payment processing fees) |
| 9. Handbid | Auction gamification | Countdown timers and leaderboards | Starting at $1,396 |
| 10. ClickBid | AI integration | AI-driven communication content | Starting at $795/year |
| 11. AuctionWorx | Easy auction setup | Multiple auction vendors option | $2,995 |
| 12. Bonterra Guided Fundraising | Small fundraising teams | Modern user interface | Contact Bonterra for pricing |
| 13. CharityAuctionsToday | Affordability | Popcorn bidding | Contact CharityAuctionsToday for more details |
| 14. Winspire | Tailored auction packages | Customized travel package selections | No upfront costs for auction packages |
| 15. Risk Free Item Shop | Easy auction package search | Extensive auction package categories | No upfront costs for consignment packages |
| 16. CharityACE | Auction package consulting | Free auction package consulting | No upfront costs for auction packages |
| 17. Auction Packages | Luxury, high-bid packages | Travel services department | No upfront costs for auction packages |
1. SchoolAuction.net: Best Overall Online Auction Software
Whatever your auction goals are, SchoolAuction.net will help you reach them! SchoolAuction.net’s all-in-one fundraising platform is designed to streamline your auction planning and execution from start to finish. Trusted by thousands of schools and nonprofits around the country, SchoolAuction.net has helped these organizations raise nearly $1 billion with its user-friendly fundraising tools.
SchoolAuction.net’s top features include:
- Hybrid and virtual live auctions. Remote participants can access livestreamed video, chat features, and bidding all on one screen. Support seamless, simultaneous in-person paddle bids and virtual online bids.
- Mobile bidding. The average American spends nearly five hours a day looking at a phone screen. Make it convenient for guests to participate in your auction by allowing them to bid and receive bid notifications on their smartphones.
- Online fundraising. Choose from pre-made online campaign templates to raise funds through crowdfunding, event tickets, membership fees, or an online store. Allow donors to make one-time or monthly donations.
- Voting contests. Keep auction attendees engaged by holding voting contests, where participants can donate to submit a vote on topics from the best musical performances to the most adorable pet photo submissions.
- Easy checkout. Leave a lasting, favorable impression on your attendees by giving them the option to review their cart and check out using their smartphones.
Additionally, SchoolAuction.net offers an abundance of training and support resources to ensure you get the best possible results from your auction. Your team can take advantage of unlimited email support, plus immediate phone support on the day of your event, to address any questions or concerns you may have.
Key Takeaways
SchoolAuction.net’s customers commonly praise how intuitive and easy the platform is to use—requiring minimal training for even the least experienced users.
SchoolAuction.net is built to help you hit the ground running with your auction planning, with detailed documentation that covers everything you need and a dedicated customer support team that responds promptly to your messages.
Price
SchoolAuction.net has numerous pricing options, all of which come with a free trial. For organizations with a limited budget, the “Acorn” plan charges only $79/event to start. The best value “Plus” plan is $1,500/year, providing a full suite of fundraising tools, unlimited event sites, and the option to use your existing credit card processor during your auction.
You’ve got ambitious auction goals. SchoolAuction.net will help you get there.
2. Qgiv: Best for Additional Fundraising Options
Qgiv’s online auction software allows you to engage guests through both a mobile app and web-based bidding. Designed to make auctions exciting for your participants and stress-free for your team, Qgiv’s auction platform comes with features such as:
- A drag-and-drop event builder
- Flexible guest registration options with multi-guest ticketing
- Raffle tool and “buy now” options
- Advanced auction item filtering and sorting
- Quick QR code check-in and checkout
During and following your event, Qgiv makes it easy for you to assess your auction’s performance on a single, customizable reporting dashboard.
Key Takeaways
Qgiv users appreciate the customer service that comes with the platform. Plus, Qgiv integrates with various constituent relationship management (CRM) systems, such as Bloomerang and Salesforce, to provide a seamless experience for fundraising teams.
However, some users have noted that, because of the numerous functionalities provided by Qgiv, there can be an initial learning curve to overcome.
Price
Qgiv’s Auction Events & Mobile Bidding is priced at $259/month with a 3.95% + $0.30 transaction fee.
3. Snowball: Best Mobile Bidding App
Snowball’s fundraising platform comes with no hidden fees and allows you to plan multiple auctions throughout the year. More than 15,000 nonprofits use Snowball to connect with their donors and raise revenue. With Snowball’s Fundraising Auction Software, you can unlock the following features:
- Text-to-bid
- Online payment portal
- Automatic email and text notifications to guests
- “Purchase now” item options
- Instant purchase and donation receipts
For each auction item in your catalog, Snowball allows you to upload up to five photos and a detailed description to catch supporters’ attention and encourage them to bid.
Key Takeaways
Snowball’s customers are happy with the platform’s ability to support unlimited auctions, auction items, and bidders throughout the year. However, users have noted that the software lacks some features that could improve the user experience, such as allowing guests to pay for more than one auction item at once.
Price
While Snowball has a free “Essential” plan with basic fundraising tools, organizations must opt into the “Professional” plan at $849/year to access its auction capabilities and support.
4. ReadySetAuction: Best for Data-Driven Auction Strategies
ReadySetAuction is a cloud-based fundraising auction solution. The platform, which does not charge a portion of your auction proceeds, has helped its customers raise over $250 million. Whether you’re fundraising for a sports team or a public school, ReadySetAuction equips you for success with auction features such as:
- Item, in-kind gift, consignment, and sponsorship tracking
- RSVP and ticket management
- Mobile bidding
- A leaderboard slideshow for spotlighting top items and sponsors
- Self-checkout and emailed receipts
When you use ReadySetAuction, relevant auction data will automatically roll forward from one event to the next. As a result, your team can pick up where you left off from the previous year and engage past guests with ease.
Key Takeaways
Users of ReadySetAuction generally enjoy the online auction software’s simplicity. However, some users may find the functionality and options too basic, especially when it comes to personalizing their auction website and catalog.
Price
ReadySetAuction’s pricing plans start at $1,099/year. To access online and mobile bidding features, however, organizations must choose the “Complete” plan at $1,999/year.
5. GiveSmart: Best for Auction Donor Management
GiveSmart is dedicated to helping nonprofits of all sizes raise more through silent auctions and mobile bidding. This auction management software allows you to put the donor experience first with the following features:
- Intuitive mobile registration and check-in
- Live auction leaderboard display
- Personalized text messages and automated outbid notifications
- Easy-to-navigate auction catalog creation
- Donor-optional transaction fees
Additionally, GiveSmart facilitates various aspects of auction planning for your team by handling item packaging, providing live support, and allowing you to manage your virtual auction from any device.
Key Takeaways
GiveSmart’s customers note that the online auction software’s reporting and data analytics features are detailed and easy to understand. However, some users have reported issues with learning how to use the platform, contacting customer support, and limited training resources.
Price
To learn about GiveSmart’s pricing options, organizations should contact the GiveSmart team on their website.
6. OneCause: Best Online Auction Software for Guest Experiences
OneCause’s fundraising and event platform has supported more than 60,000 nonprofit events, from auctions to luncheons. The software is designed with fundraisers in mind, equipping auction planners with key features such as:
- Livestreaming
- AI item description generation and recommendations
- Image galleries for auction items
- Custom ticket packages and promo codes
- Online sponsor management
The OneCause team is continually working to improve the auction experience for both your fundraising team and guests by implementing customer feedback and incorporating the latest technology into the platform.
Key Takeaways
According to OneCause users, the OneCause support team is very attentive and experienced. The online auction software is easy to use, with minimal technical issues that crop up. The main downsides noted by customers include difficulties uploading auction item images and a clunky user interface.
Price
OneCause has three plans for auctions and events. To learn more about their specific pricing, organizations must contact the OneCause team directly.
7. Silent Auction Pro: Best After-Hours Availability
Silent Auction Pro has partnered with more than 3,000 organizations to raise over $130 million for their causes. The platform simplifies auction and event management with features including:
- Mobile bidding
- Outbid text and email notifications
- Multiple ticketing options
- “Buy it now” and “fixed price” item options
- Customized event landing pages
Notably, Silent Auction Pro always provides free support on the night of your auction, even if the event extends beyond its normal company hours.
Key Takeaways
The majority of Silent Auction Pro’s users are pleased with the software’s cost and the level of customer support they receive. However, several have noted that the interface could use some improvement.
Price
Silent Auction Pro’s virtual and hybrid auction features are available in plans starting at $749/year.
8. Auctria: Best for Beginner Auction Planners
Auctria is an online auction software solution that makes auction planning easy and accessible for teams of all experience levels. Some of Auctria’s most notable fundraising and event management features include:
- Complete procurement tracking
- Sponsorship sales and recognition
- Customizable event website templates
- Flexible ticket sale options
- Mobile catalog viewing and bidding
Plus, Auctria hosts many webinars that your team can watch to learn tips and best practices that will boost your auction results.
Key Takeaways
Typically, Auctria users appreciate the software’s efficiency and prompt customer support. However, they have noted that the user experience is not always intuitive and the interface feels a little dated.
Price
Auctria’s cheapest pricing plan is free for organizations with a $10,000 total income per year, though it comes with a 1% credit card fee in addition to payment processing fees. From there, pricing starts at $350/year.
9. Handbid: Best Online Auction Software for Gamification
Handbid is an auction management software solution for nonprofits and commercial organizations. The easy-to-use platform is made to help you create memorable, fulfilling auction guest experiences with features like:
- Auto-generated guest lists
- Quick two-minute check-in
- Live fundraising thermometer, countdown timers, and leaderboards
- Mobile bidding through the Handbid app
- Real-time event performance monitoring
Additionally, Handbid comes with comprehensive engagement tools for your guests, allowing you to host games such as prize drawings and heads-or-tails contests at your auction to raise more.
Key Takeaways
One of the most favorable aspects of Handbid is its ease of use for both fundraising teams and auction guests. However, some users have noted that the software is pricey for their budget.
Price
For nonprofits, Handbid’s software starts at $1,396, with single-event and multi-event packages available.
10. ClickBid: Best for AI-Enhanced Auction Software
ClickBid’s auction software has helped major nonprofits such as the Salvation Army manage their auctions. So far, the platform has supported more than 10,000 events and raised over $500 million. Some of ClickBid’s top features include:
- Text-to-register
- Custom event landing pages
- Online auction catalog
- Mobile bidding
- Secure payment processing with Stripe
ClickBid even has an AuctionGPT feature that allows you to create more tailored, impactful communication with AI assistance.
Key Takeaways
According to ClickBid users, the customer support team is what makes the platform stand out. However, some users have noted that they wish there was more training available to overcome the initial learning curve.
Price
ClickBid’s pricing starts at $795/year with its “Essentials” plan. However, to access a Dedicated Advisor who will lend their expertise throughout the auction process, organizations must opt into the “Full Suite” plan at $2,295/year.
11. AuctionWorx: Best for Easy Auction Setup
AuctionWorx is an online auction software solution that facilitates auction management for businesses. The platform boasts an extensive list of features, including:
- Complete, mobile-friendly auction websites
- Multiple auction vendors option
- Optional seller and buyer fees
- Auto-generated consignment statements
- Real-time data updates
AuctionWorx even allows you to add an existing YouTube video to your auction item listings to promote engagement and bidding.
Key Takeaways
Users generally note that the AuctionWorx platform is easy to use and that the customer support is high quality. However, marketing features may be on the limited side.
Price
The AuctionWorx Enterprise License costs $2,995 and comes with standard support for 12 months.
12. Bonterra Guided Fundraising: Best for Small Fundraising Teams
Bonterra Guided Fundraising is a fundraising platform that has an “Auctions” add-on option. Bonterra’s online auction software for nonprofits comes with many smart features to streamline event setup, including:
- Favoriting items and tracking bids
- Automated outbid notifications
- Modern mobile user interface
- Livestreamed videos
- Self-checkout and automated receipts
Additional add-ons include event management and fundraising coaches who can support you toward short-term and long-term goals.
Key Takeaways
While users appreciate that Bonterra’s auction tools integrate with the overall fundraising platform, it’s important to note that the auction package comes at an added cost.
Price
Since Bonterra provides personalized pricing based on each organization’s needs, you must contact them directly for details.
13. CharityAuctionsToday: Best Solution for Affordability
CharityAuctionsToday’s online auction platform is built to allow fundraising teams to hit the ground running with their auction planning—all without technical expertise. To help you raise funds and engage guests, the software has features such as:
- Popcorn bidding
- Bulk auction item upload
- Event ticket and sponsorship sales
- Text-to-give
- Attendee management
CharityAuctionsToday even allows you to add a donation button and fundraising goal to your auction page so guests can make contributions beyond bidding on items.
Key Takeaways
Overall, users praise CharityAuctionsToday’s straightforward and easy-to-navigate platform, which makes it easy to interact with bidders throughout the auction.
Price
Organizations only pay after they start selling auction items, so you can get started on the platform for free. Contact CharityAuctionsToday for more pricing details.
14. Winspire: Best for Tailored Auction Packages
While Winspire is not a software solution for managing the entire auction process, the Winspire team has the experience and dedication to help you acquire the most appealing items for your auction. By partnering with a travel consignment provider like Winspire, you can:
- Choose from more than 200 bucket-list auction travel packages.
- Only pay for the packages you sell at your auction.
- Work with event coordinators to find packages that appeal to your unique donor base.
- Allow Winspire’s agency to handle the booking and coordination of winners’ travel experiences.
Thanks to Winspire’s curated auction travel packages, nonprofits across North America have raised $110 million for their causes!
Key Takeaways
Some auction planners may be concerned that relying on consignment auction packages may result in less-than-stellar travel experiences for winning guests. However, one of Winspire’s core values is “Accountability,” which means that the agency is committed to ensuring customer satisfaction throughout every interaction.
Price
There is no upfront cost. Winspire’s pricing varies based on the packages you successfully sell at your auction, and every dollar you raise above a package’s Nonprofit Cost (list price) goes directly to your organization.
15. Risk Free Item Shop: Best for Easy Auction Package Search
If you’re not sure what auction packages or items will best appeal to your auction guests, Risk Free Item Shop has an extensive online collection for you to explore. All nonprofits can:
- Sort packages and items by category
- Add desired choices to a cart
- Receive relevant marketing materials to present in a catalog
- Present these packages and items for sale at an auction
You can find both travel experiences and physical products, such as jewelry sets, on the website.
Key Takeaways
Many auction planners have found the Risk Free Item Shop website to be easy to use and the packages to be highly popular among their guests.
Price
There are no upfront costs, additional fees, or item markups. Nonprofits will simply pay the Cost To Nonprofit (reserve) price for what they sell at their auction and keep the profit.
16. CharityACE: Best for Auction Package Consulting
CharityACE is an auction package consignment service that can enhance your catalog with items ranging from luxury experiences to one-of-a-kind trips for sports fans. The process looks something like this:
- Explore auction packages on the CharityACE website.
- Receive advice from their fundraising specialists to choose the best packages.
- Sell these no-risk packages an unlimited amount of times at your auction.
- Keep all of the proceeds after the event.
From there, the CharityACE team will handle fulfilling the package for winners.
Key Takeaways
CharityACE has supported over 2,000 nonprofit auctions and resulted in over 6,000 packages sold. Nonprofits have enjoyed the wide range of packages to choose from and the kind, responsive support team.
Price
CharityAce charges nothing upfront. You’ll pay for the packages you sell at the auction and keep the proceeds.
17. Auction Packages: Best for Luxury, High-Bid Packages
A key element of auction success involves procuring high-quality, enticing items and setting prices that will inspire bids. Auction Packages is a consignment package provider that specializes in providing luxury experiences that will wow your guests. To get started, you’ll simply follow these steps:
- Sign up for an account.
- Choose and reserve auction packages.
- Download the provided PDFs to market each package.
- Sell the packages at your auction.
- The Auction Packages team handles the redemption process for winners.
Your team can choose from more than 250 consignment vacation packages and reach out to the provider’s fundraising specialists if you need support along the way.
Key Takeaways
Many clients are impressed with the comprehensive support offered by Auction Packages and the enticing travel packages that bring in a wider audience.
Price
There is no upfront cost. Auction Packages provides a 100% risk-free experience, so organizations only have to pay for packages they generate a profit on.
Want some actionable advice to make your next auction stand out?
Online Auction Software: FAQs
Research shows that 81% of nonprofit donors attend fundraising events. Is your organization ready to start planning thrilling auctions that will engage your community and bring them closer to your mission? Explore these frequently asked questions to set your online auction software research up for success:
What is online auction software?
Online auction software facilitates the planning, management, and execution of online auctions. Whether you’re hosting a silent auction or a virtual, livestreamed auction, you should have an auction platform that makes it easy to assemble a digital catalog, register guests, manage bids, process transactions, and more.
What are the benefits of auction management software?
By investing in the right online auction software for your organization’s specific needs, you can tap into the following benefits:
- Wider audience reach, since guests can participate no matter where they’re located or what device they prefer using.
- Reduced event expenses, since conducting an online auction cuts down on event costs, such as securing a physical venue.
- Streamlined guest experiences with convenient registration, secure payment processing, and self-check-out.
- Improved auction engagement using tools such as leaderboards and automatic outbid notifications.
With an auction platform, your fundraising team can consolidate all of its activities into one place. You can automate pre-event communications about your auction rules, monitor bidding behavior in real time, and access all of the information you need to follow up with winners once the auction is over.
You’ve got ambitious auction goals. SchoolAuction.net will help you get there.
What are the key considerations for choosing auction software?
When it comes to buying any new fundraising software, the key to success is to find the right fit for your organization’s needs and goals. As you start narrowing down your list of options, keep these considerations in mind to guide your decision-making:
- Ease of use. The platform must be user-friendly and intuitive for both your team and your auction guests to use. There should be step-by-step tutorials, videos, and other documentation available to ensure that you have all of the information you need to make the most of your auction solution.
- Essential features. Make a list of must-have features for your upcoming auction, as well as non-essentials that would be nice to have. For example, given the widespread popularity of smartphones, you may prioritize platforms that have well-designed mobile bidding tools. Additionally, you might want features that support voting contests or other engaging activities you’re planning to incorporate into your auction.
- Cost. Decide how much you’re willing to spend on your auction platform given your organization’s goals and budget. Beyond the yearly cost of a subscription plan, be on the lookout for additional charges such as setup fees and payment processing fees.
- Customer support. Consider what support resources you’ll have access to leading up to your auction and during the event day. There should be a dedicated team available to answer questions, troubleshoot issues, and provide helpful guidance promptly via email or phone.
Beyond exploring auction platform websites and user reviews online, consider reaching out to peers at similar organizations to see if they have a recommended solution. Once you’ve narrowed down your list to a few top choices, sign up for free trials or demos to get a firsthand understanding of how each software performs before you make your final choice.
Wrapping Up: Making the Most of Your Online Auction Software
While assessing online auction software options can seem daunting or labor-intensive, remember that the right platform will ultimately make your fundraising team’s lives much easier in the long run.
Look for a solution that thousands of organizations like yours have found success with, like SchoolAuction.net. With simple and powerful auction tools at your disposal, you’ll be well on your way to planning an outstanding event that shatters your audience’s expectations.
For more auction and fundraising tips to incorporate into your strategy, check out our additional resources:
- How Does a Silent Auction Work? What Fundraisers Should Know. Learn what to do before, during, and after your auction to maximize your fundraising results.
- Silent Auction Pricing: The Ultimate How-To Guide. Discover how to determine an item’s fair market value, create minimum starting bids, and set bid increments in this guide.
- 5 Ways to Simplify Your Elementary School Fundraiser. If you’re raising funds for an elementary school, use the strategies in this guide to streamline your efforts.
