The best event management software for nonprofits centralizes registration, communications, check-in, and reporting in one place—saving staff time and improving the attendee experience. Over 85% of event planners already rely on software to power their events, and for nonprofits, the right tool does double duty: it streamlines logistics and strengthens donor relationships that outlast the event itself.
With dozens of platforms on the market, choosing the right one is genuinely difficult. This guide covers everything you need to make a confident decision: what nonprofit event management software actually does, the key factors to evaluate before you buy, and a curated list of 23 tools with features, standout capabilities, and transparent pricing.
- What is event management software for nonprofits?
- What should nonprofits keep in mind when browsing event software?
- Top event management software tools to explore
- Frequently asked questions
Let’s start by defining event management software and exploring key considerations before investing in a new platform.
What is event management software for nonprofits?
Nonprofit event management software is any technology tool that helps nonprofits plan, execute, and report on events. These tools typically include features for event scheduling, attendee registration, volunteer coordination, check-in management, marketing and communications, attendance tracking, and post-event follow-up.
Some platforms are purpose-built for nonprofits and integrate directly with donor CRMs. Others are general-purpose tools adapted for nonprofit use. The distinction matters: a nonprofit-specific platform will connect event attendance data to donor records, helping you identify new prospects, track giving history, and build relationships.
What should nonprofits keep in mind when browsing event software?
Choosing the right event management platform starts with understanding your organization's specific needs.
Your event management software should help you efficiently check items off your planning to-do list. The right tool will integrate with your nonprofit’s existing software, offer an intuitive user interface, and, most importantly, not break the bank. With that in mind, here are several key considerations to discuss with your team before investing in event management software:
- The size of your event. The scope and scale of the events your nonprofit plans to host matter greatly for the type of event management software you choose. It’s easier to manage small-scale events with more basic, free software solutions. However, larger events require much more coordination and cross-team collaboration, making it worth investing in paid solutions that offer a wider range of features.
- Your budget. If you plan to invest in a paid solution, setting a clear budget is essential for ensuring your event can achieve a high return on investment (ROI). Consider your expected costs and anticipated event revenue to choose a solution that won’t exceed your means.
- Your event’s format. Hybrid and virtual events have different considerations than in-person experiences. To host these events, you’ll need to find event management software with livestreaming capabilities, remote attendee engagement features, and other elements that make virtual events possible.
- Technical support. Software support can be a major help when first getting up and running with a new system. Your event software should have a support portal, free resources, and chat or email support to answer any questions.
- User-friendliness. Your event management platform should be intuitive for your nonprofit’s staff to use. Request demos from your top options and invite team members to join so they can understand how each system works.
- Integrations. Event tools with robust integrations make it easy to transfer data seamlessly between platforms without the need for manual uploads or the risk of losing data. Understand whether your event management tool integrates with other solutions, such as your CRM and marketing platforms.
- Software reviews. Your event management tool should have a variety of positive, unbiased reviews from real customers. Look up your top solutions on platforms like G2 and Capterra to review testimonials from current users.
Your organization may have unique event management needs that are not covered in this list. Compile those requirements and keep them in mind as you work through our list of top solutions.
23 top event management software tools to explore
The following software solutions are user-friendly options with features to effectively manage events. Browse our list to find tools that align with your needs, budget, and event goals.
User-friendly event management software tools
1. Bloomerang’s Fundraising Event Management feature
Best nonprofit event software for donor experience
Bloomerang’s event fundraising tools prioritize donor engagement. This leading event management software turns events into stepping stones that lead to long-term supporter engagement, providing features that make events easier to plan and enhance the event experience for attendees. Effective features of this event management software include:
- Customizable, branded event landing pages. Easily build branded, robust event information pages with a user-friendly drag-and-drop editor
- Simple event registration. Use sign-up forms that track attendance and event revenue. When attendees register, it automatically creates a touchpoint in their interaction timeline, helping you better track engagement.
- Constituent interaction timeline. All attendee interactions—like registering for your event, opening emails, and interacting with your social media posts—are logged on a chronological timeline. This helps you understand each supporter’s involvement journey at a glance and personalize your future outreach.
- Flexible ticket packages. Offer payment options for individuals, families, VIPs, sponsors, and exclusive events.
- Constituent engagement levels. Bloomerang analyzes past interactions to create an engagement level score, automatically identifying supporters who would be interested in your event and good prospects for other initiatives, like your fundraising efforts.
- Advanced reporting. Track event insights, such as supporters who are your top event promoters, or those who made their very first donation at your event. Leverage these insights to send thank-you messages and tailored marketing outreach.
- Unlimited custom fields. Track and report on any constituent information relevant to your event planning, from dietary restrictions to communication preferences.
- Attendee screening for giving capacity. Leveraging our DonorSearch integration, you can identify supporters with a rich history of philanthropic giving and a high giving capacity. Then, you can make tailored stewardship plans to invite these individuals to your events and build relationships with them.
- Event promotion tools for multiple platforms. Promote your experience across the web using email, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).
Bloomerang also includes unlimited users, free email and chat support, a mobile app, and unlimited donation pages to gather donations before, during, and after your fundraising event. Learn more about Bloomerang’s plans and pricing.
2. Cvent
Event software for unified data management
Overview: Cvent is an event management tool that offers unique features for nonprofits, such as donor and volunteer engagement and fundraising reporting. Stand-out features:
- AI recommendations and customizable templates that help create branded and personalized experiences.
- Robust reporting with interactive chats, live polling, and hybrid audience Q&A capabilities.
- Combined donor and event data for a 360-view of your fundraising and marketing efforts.
Price: Contact for pricing.
3. EventMobi
Tool for multi-event management
Overview: EventMobi’s platform is used by associations, agencies, and corporations to plan and run professional events. Stand-out features:
- A mobile event app to help attendees navigate your event, access event content, and network with other attendees.
- A virtual events platform for engaging virtual attendees and spotlighting sponsors.
- Gamification functionality, such as challenges, rewards, and leaderboards, to increase attendee engagement.
Price: Request pricing on the EventMobi website.
4. Zeffy
Free event management software for nonprofits
Overview: Zeffy is a zero-fee nonprofit fundraising platform, with tools for event ticketing and donation management. Stand-out features:
- Scannable e-tickets for simple check-ins.
- Ability to accept multiple payment methods, including all credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, ACH, and checks.
- Customizable ticketing forms that allow you to add your nonprofit’s logo, colors, and a custom banner.
Price: Zeffy is free to use. The platform is powered by optional donor contributions.
5. Bizzabo
Multi-use event management software for nonprofits
Overview: Bizzabo offers customizable nonprofit event management software to grow mission awareness and increase fundraising. Stand-out features:
- All-in-one event management dashboard to view essential metrics and centralize team communications.
- Personalized content journeys for attendees, including personal agendas and an on-demand content library.
- Interactive audience experiences, including Q&As, polls, and chats.
Price: View plans on the Bizzabo website and contact for pricing.
6. CiviCRM
Open-source nonprofit event management software
Overview: CiviCRM offers an open-source CRM for nonprofits. They also provide a full suite of event management tools to simplify planning and management. Stand-out features:
- Registration pages for free and paid events.
- Ability to import and export attendee data to and from other platforms.
- Ability to set up recurring events and other activities.
Price: Free to download, use, and share.
7. Doubleknot
Software for recurring events and programs
Overview: Doubleknot’s event registration platform is best suited for nonprofit cultural organizations, such as zoos, museums, and botanical gardens. Stand-out features:
- Custom forms, fields, and registration types to gather the information that matters most to your nonprofit.
- Flexible payments and promotions, with options for coupon codes and member discounts.
- Mobile sales and check-in apps accessible via iPhones or iPads.
Price: Contact Doubleknot for pricing information.
Best nonprofit event management software for auctions
8. Handbid
Event management software for mobile bidding
Overview: Handbid offers nonprofit software for mobile bidding and auction events. Their software is tailored to organizations looking to ditch paper bid sheets and outdated auction platforms for a modern, user-friendly system. Stand-out features:
- Mobile bidding via the Handbid app or web-browser option.
- Streamlined ticketing and registration by gathering credit card information before guests arrive.
- Mobile auction management to allow event planners to manage event logistics from their mobile devices.
Price: Packages start at $1,396, with single and multi-event options available.
9. OneCause
Fundraising software for nonprofit events and auctions
Overview: OneCause is a multifaceted nonprofit fundraising software solution that specializes in event fundraising and auction management. Nonprofits turn to OneCause when they’re looking for versatility in their event management software, as well as elevated auction functionality like mobile bidding. Stand-out features:
- Top-tier mobile bidding with Max Bid and Buy Now features
- Time-saving AI tools that generate item descriptions and automatically identify items that are likely to get the highest bids
- Real-time scoreboards to motivate bidders and donors throughout your event
Keep in mind that OneCause may not have the robust functionality you need to build genuine, long-lasting relationships with donors. Solutions like Bloomerang can help with both event management and long-term donor engagement and retention. The Bloomerang donor management platform is designed to make donor data easily accessible and streamline follow-ups to build stronger connections. Price: OneCause offers both pay-as-you-go models and custom quotes.
Top event management software for tracking registrations and attendance
10. RSVPify
Event management tool for tracking attendance
Overview: RSVPify simplifies the event management process from registration to event day. This software solution helps manage ticketing, virtual events, event website building, and more. Stand-out features:
- Ability to create an event registration form in minutes and embed it into your organization’s website.
- Ticket add-on capabilities, such as merchandise or VIP access.
- Simple event sign-in with a QR code, guest name, or confirmation number.
Price: Event pricing starts at $19 per month. Paid events incur a 1.95% + $.90 fee per ticket, item, or donation.
11. Brushfire
Event management app for ticketing
Overview: Brushfire is an online ticketing platform for online and in-person ticket sales. Stand-out features:
- Robust ticketing features including assigned seating and conditional registration forms.
- Attendee support for customers.
- Multiple integrations with leading payment processors, content management systems, and CRMs.
Price: Brushfire offers a pay-as-you-go model with a $1.50 + 1% per paid attendee or a flat $1 fee per free attendee.
12. Eventbrite
Solution for building customizable event pages
Overview: Eventbrite is a self-service event management and ticketing platform. Stand-out features:
- Customizable event pages to sell tickets online.
- Event organizer app to monitor ticket sales and event check-ins.
- A variety of marketing tools to spread the word about your event, including Eventbrite Ads and social media ads.
Price: Eventbrite offers a free option for up to 25 tickets. Paid options start at $9.99 per event.
Best event management solutions for marketing events
13. Facebook Events
Tool for marketing your event
Overview: Facebook Events is a popular Facebook feature that allows organizations to create events and invite followers to RSVP. Stand-out features:
- Easily share event logistics with a robust information page.
- Post photos and videos to your event page to generate interest.
- Personally invite supporters to your event using Facebook’s messaging and notification tools.
Price: Facebook Events are free to create and share.
14. Canva
Graphic design software for event marketing
Overview: Canva is an online graphic design platform. Nonprofits can use this tool to create a variety of event marketing materials, including social media posts, email and website graphics, flyers, postcards, and other designs. Stand-out features:
- Simple, intuitive editor with 420,000+ templates and 75 million+ images.
- Free online AI image generator and photo editing features.
- Text animations for dynamic, engaging messaging.
Price: Eligible nonprofits can access Canva for free after applying through their website.
15. Bonfire
Tool for event merchandising
Overview: Bonfire offers a merchandise fundraising platform for nonprofits. If you want to design and sell or offer event merchandise as part of the ticket price, Bonfire is a user-friendly option. Stand-out features:
- Customizable organization page to share your event information and display fundraising stats.
- Peer-to-peer fundraising capabilities to empower your community to promote your merchandise and raise funds on behalf of your organization.
- Personalized thank-you emails to supporters from your campaign dashboard.
Price: Free to use, but nonprofits incur processing fees of 3.5%.
16. BuildFire
Event mobile app builder
Overview: BuildFire is a mobile app builder that enables users to create apps for iOS and Android. It’s a simple and intuitive option if you need a mobile app to promote your event and offer attendee engagement features. Stand-out features:
- Turnkey app development with a drag-and-drop editor.
- Multiple use cases, including lecture notes, feedback surveys, polls, push notifications, and more.
- Event schedule to help attendees stay organized.
Price: Plans start at $100 per month for the app development platform.
Additional nonprofit software solutions that support event management
17. Asana
Nonprofit event tool for project management
Overview: Asana is a project management platform that nonprofits can use to manage event planning more efficiently and collaboratively. Stand-out features:
- Organize projects in a shared hub, with timelines, task roles, and task lists.
- Create custom workflows and use automation to save time.
- Add goals and report on progress with automatic updates.
Price: Asana offers a free plan, and paid plans start at $10.99 per user per month.
18. Google Meet
Free event livestreaming tool
Overview: Google Meet is a free video-conferencing tool. Nonprofits can use this platform to livestream hybrid events or host small virtual events. Stand-out features:
- Breakout rooms for small-group discussions.
- Interactive features for participants, like raising hands or reaction capabilities.
- Virtual dry-erase board for simple collaboration.
Price: Google Meet is free, but users can sign up for a Google Workspace or Google One Premium plan for premium features.
19. Hopin
Suite of event management solutions for community building
Overview: Hopin’s engagement tools are designed to help organizations build stronger supporter communities online. These tools include livestreaming and video recording, webinars, and an online community builder. Stand-out features:
- A professional livestreaming and recording studio that helps create clear, branded videos.
- A webinar platform to host online educational events.
- An online community for your supporters with channel discussions, a content library, and member groups.
Price: Pricing depends on the tool—visit the Hopin website for more information.
20. DonorSearch
Event prospect research tool
Overview: DonorSearch offers AI and custom fundraising solutions to help your nonprofit visualize data, identify prospective major donors, and enrich your database with external data. You can use this tool to screen event attendees for wealth and affinity markers that indicate they may be willing to make large donations during your event. Then, you can create a custom stewardship plan to engage these donors throughout the experience. Stand-out features:
- Machine learning algorithm to analyze donor data, identify patterns, and recommend useful next actions.
- Philanthropic and wealth screening to identify likely major donors.
- Most likely to respond score to identify highly engaged donors and create communication segments to reach out to them.
Price: Contact DonorSearch for pricing information.
21. Gratavid
Event tool for showing gratitude
Overview: Gratavid by Gravyty is a tool for creating personalized video messaging to show gratitude to event attendees. Appreciation videos are a unique way to thank attendees and donors, leave a positive impression, and boost supporter retention. Stand-out features:
- Ability to record videos easily from any device.
- Opportunity to create a custom branded landing page to host your videos.
- Ability to send videos and gifs via email to ensure all attendees receive gratitude messages.
Price: Contact Gravyty for pricing information.
22. Smartwaiver
Nonprofit software for event waivers
Overview: Smartwaiver offers online waiver software. Waivers are essential for any events that require physical activity or have a risk of injury, such as bike-a-thons. Stand-out features:
- Add customizable options to your waiver, including flagged questions and safety videos.
- Collect waivers in multiple formats, including a kiosk, email link, QR code, or embedded waiver widget.
- Grant varying user permissions and access to increase security.
Price: The basic plan is $19 per month for up to 100 signed waivers. They also offer special pricing for one-time events.
23. Slack
App for event team communication
Overview: Slack is an instant messaging and productivity app. Event planning teams can use Slack to stay in touch and quickly access other planning apps like Google or Outlook calendars. Stand-out features:
- Channels, which are messaging groups designed to focus on specific subjects.
- A workflow builder to help automate tasks.
- Audio and video meetings.
Price: Slack offers a free plan, and paid options start at $4.38 per month.
FAQ: Event management software
What is the best free event management software for nonprofits?
The best free options are Zeffy and CiviCRM. Zeffy is a zero-fee ticketing and donation platform funded by optional donor contributions at checkout; your organization pays nothing. CiviCRM is a free, open-source CRM with a built-in event management module that works well for organizations with technical capacity to self-host.
What features should nonprofit event management software include?
At minimum, look for: online event registration and ticketing, attendee check-in tools, payment processing, email communications, and post-event reporting. For fundraising-focused nonprofits, CRM integration and donor engagement tracking are essential additions that distinguish purpose-built nonprofit platforms from general event tools.
How much does nonprofit event management software cost?
Pricing ranges widely. Free platforms like Zeffy and CiviCRM cost nothing. Per-ticket platforms like Brushfire charge $1.50 + 1% per paid attendee. Subscription platforms range from $19/month (RSVPify) to $100+/month (BuildFire). Enterprise platforms like Cvent and Bizzabo offer custom pricing. Auction-specific tools like Handbid start at $1,396 per event package.
Can event management software integrate with a nonprofit CRM?
Yes, many platforms integrate with popular nonprofit CRMs. Bloomerang's event management is native to its CRM, meaning all event data flows automatically into donor records. Other tools like Brushfire and CiviCRM offer CRM integrations. Always verify specific integration compatibility before purchasing.
What is the difference between event management software and a ticketing platform?
A ticketing platform (like Brushfire or Eventbrite) focuses specifically on selling and managing tickets. Event management software is broader; it covers registration, communications, volunteer management, day-of operations, reporting, and donor engagement. Nonprofits focused on long-term fundraising benefit most from full event management platforms rather than standalone ticketing tools.
Do nonprofits get discounts on event management software?
Many providers offer nonprofit discounts or free access. Canva offers free Pro access for eligible nonprofits. CiviCRM and Zeffy are completely free. Platforms like Asana offer discounted nonprofit pricing. Always ask vendors about nonprofit rates before accepting standard pricing.
Wrapping Up
It’s not an exaggeration to say that your event management software plays a significant role in shaping the nature of your event. It can help create a streamlined experience for event planners as well as guests, creating a positive impression of your organization. Plus, the right tool will support your events long-term, helping you build on each experience to reach a wider audience. Looking for more event planning resources? Start here:
- The Ultimate Nonprofit Event Planning Checklist for Success. Use this event planning to-do list alongside your software solutions to stay on track and reach your goals.
- 15+ Volunteer Appreciation Ideas to Build Relationships. Volunteers are critical to nonprofit event success. Show appreciation for their pivotal role with these gratitude ideas.
- 27 Recommended Affordable or Free Nonprofit Software Tools. Want to explore free options to manage your events? Start with this roundup of free nonprofit software tools.
