15 Virtual Fundraising Ideas
that Work in 2025
(Updated Guide for Nonprofits & Churches)
Virtual fundraising has evolved dramatically over the past few years. What started as a temporary solution during global shutdowns has now become one of the most reliable, scalable, and cost-efficient ways for nonprofits, churches, schools, and community groups to grow their donor base. Supporters today expect flexible, digital-first giving options—and that’s exactly where strong virtual fundraising ideas can make a massive difference.
In fact, more than 85% of donors now prefer giving online or via mobile. Recurring digital donors contribute 42% more over time, and virtual events consistently reach 2–4x more people than in-person gatherings. This shift doesn’t just represent convenience—it opens the door to new audiences, new revenue streams, and year-round engagement opportunities.
Whether you’re planning your first virtual campaign or refreshing your annual strategy, these updated virtual fundraising ideas for 2025 will help you connect with supporters wherever they are.
1. Host a Live Virtual Giving Event
Livestream fundraising is still one of the most powerful ways to inspire real-time generosity. Platforms like YouTube Live, Facebook Live, and Zoom let you bring people together without geographic limits.
To increase conversions, pair your livestream with mobile giving options, such as asking viewers to donate via text or through a simple online form. Lowering friction is key—supporters should be able to give in under 10 seconds.
2. Launch a Text-to-Donate Campaign (Still the #1 High-Conversion Channel)
Text giving has become an essential part of modern fundraising. It’s fast, familiar, and works for donors of all ages.
With a platform like Txt2Give, you can create keywords for different causes, send push messaging reminders, and track all contributions inside a simple dashboard.
This channel is especially effective during virtual events, emergencies, special offerings, and year-end campaigns.
3. Run a Virtual Fitness Challenge
Virtual fitness events gained popularity in 2020, but they’ve continued to grow because they’re fun, simple, and highly shareable. Participants raise money by walking, running, cycling, or completing daily fitness goals.
Encourage participants to post progress on social media, join group chats, and share donation pages with their networks. This is one of the best virtual fundraising ideas if your audience loves community-driven activities.
4. Host an Online Auction (Now With AI-Powered Bidding Tools)
Online auctions have gotten a major upgrade—AI bid suggestions, auto-outbid notifications, and mobile-friendly platforms make participation seamless.
This format works especially well for churches and nonprofits with access to donated goods or experience-based items.
Use compelling storytelling in item descriptions and enable instant checkout through online donations or text-to-give links.
5. Create a Peer-to-Peer Fundraising Challenge
Peer-to-peer fundraising amplifies your reach by turning supporters into ambassadors. Provide participants with templates, shareable graphics, and talking points so they can promote your cause confidently.
Virtual leaderboards, badges, and milestone rewards boost participation dramatically.
6. Offer Digital Workshops or Skill-Based Classes
From cooking classes to photography lessons to Bible study groups—online workshops are engaging and educational. Supporters pay a registration fee or donate during the session.
A simple online signup form helps streamline registration and convert interest into participation.
7. Launch a Monthly Giving Program Online
Recurring giving remains the backbone of sustainable fundraising. Promote your monthly donor program prominently and explain the real impact of consistent support.
Encourage supporters to set up recurring gifts through mobile giving or a simple online checkout—this consistency helps you plan annual budgets confidently.
8. Organize a Virtual Gala or Online Celebration Night
A virtual gala cuts costs dramatically while still offering entertainment, connection, and generosity. Tickets can include digital access, VIP meet-and-greets, or bonus content.
Mix pre-recorded segments with live speakers to keep the event dynamic.
9. Use Social Media Mini-Campaigns
Social platforms are perfect for micro-fundraising bursts—stories, reels, countdowns, and challenge prompts work incredibly well.
Pair each post with quick links to donations, keyword prompts for text giving, or QR codes.
10. Create a Virtual Memorial or Tribute Wall
This is one of the most emotionally powerful virtual fundraising ideas. Supporters donate to honor loved ones and leave a message, photo, or story.
These pages continue to generate donations long after the campaign ends.
11. Offer Naming Rights in Digital Spaces
This is one of the most emotionally powerful virtual fundraising ideas. Supporters donate to honor loved ones and leave a message, photo, or story.
These pages continue to generate donations long after the campaign ends.
12. Host a Global Day-of-Giving Livestream Series
Instead of one long event, host multiple short livestreams throughout the day with different speakers, ministries, or program highlights.
This drives engagement in time zones your in-person events could never reach.
13. Create Digital Storytelling Campaign
In 2025, donors respond strongly to transparent, narrative-driven content.
Show real impact with interviews, behind-the-scenes videos, and updates delivered through push messaging or email.
Combine stories with easy, one-tap giving options.
14. Use Virtual Raffles or Giveaway Draws
Digital raffles remain simple, fun, and widely accessible. Promote them through social media and SMS campaigns.
Winners can be announced live to boost excitement.
15. Develop a Year-Round Virtual Giving Hub
A central digital hub helps supporters explore all your programs, campaigns, and giving options in one place. Include clear CTAs for signing up, giving online, or joining your monthly supporter community.