As we move through 2026, the digital landscape for giving has become more specialized than ever. While a general search for “how to raise money” might lead you to dozens of options, the truth is that the best fundraising websites are those tailored to your specific organizational structure and goals.
From AI-powered donor insights to specialized tools for school auctions, the right website can be the difference between a stagnant campaign and a record-breaking year. In this guide, we compare the top-performing fundraising websites of the year to help you find your perfect match.
Why a “Website” is Better Than a “Page”
When people search for fundraising websites, they are often looking for a platform that does more than just host a single page. Modern fundraisers need a “hub” that handles:
- Donor Portals: Where supporters can log in, see their giving history, and manage their own recurring gifts.
- Event Integration: Selling tickets for a gala while simultaneously running an online silent auction.
- CRM (Customer Relationship Management): Storing donor data so you aren’t stuck using messy spreadsheets.
The Best Fundraising Websites by Category
1. Best for Schools: BetterWorld & 99Pledges
Schools have unique needs, such as managing student-led “thons” (walk-a-thons, read-a-thons) or selling spirit wear.
- BetterWorld: This platform has become a favorite in 2026 because it is 100% free for nonprofits. It includes auctions, giveaways, and ticketing all in one place.
- 99Pledges: Ideal for sports teams and PTA groups. It allows each student to have their own personalized page to share with grandparents and neighbors, which significantly increases total donations.
2. Best for High-Growth Nonprofits: Givebutter
Givebutter has taken the industry by storm by making fundraising “social.” Their website interface features a live feed of supporters, where donors can leave GIFs, drawings, and messages of encouragement.
- Key Advantage: It combines crowdfunding, peer-to-peer, and event ticketing into one modern, branded experience.
- Pricing: $0 platform fee (relying on donor tips), making it highly cost-effective for growing charities.
3. Best for Recurring Giving: Donorbox
If your goal is to build a sustainable monthly income, Donorbox is the gold standard. Their forms are designed to be embedded directly into your existing site, ensuring a seamless experience.
- Top Feature: Their “Ultra-Swift Pay” allows donors to give via Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Venmo in seconds, which has been shown to increase conversion rates by up to 30%.
4. Best for Events & Auctions: OneCause
For organizations that still love a good gala or golf tournament, OneCause offers the best mobile-bidding technology.
- Key Advantage: It eliminates the need for paper bid sheets. Donors get text alerts when they’ve been outbid, driving up the final price of auction items.
3 Trends Shaping Fundraising Websites in 2026
If you are evaluating a new platform this year, ensure they are keeping up with these three major shifts:
AI-Driven “Ask” Amounts
Top-tier fundraising websites now use machine learning to analyze a donor’s location, device, and past giving history. Instead of showing everyone the same $25, $50, and $100 buttons, the site automatically adjusts the suggested amounts to what that specific donor is most likely to give.
The Rise of “Zero-Fee” Models
More websites are moving toward a “tipping” model. This means the organization pays 0% in platform fees, and the website earns its revenue by asking the donor for a small, optional tip at the end of the transaction. For many small nonprofits, this has been a financial game-changer.
Asset-Based Giving (Crypto & Stocks)
Donating cash is so 2020. In 2026, many donors prefer to give via Bitcoin or by transferring appreciated stocks to avoid capital gains taxes. The best fundraising websites now have built-in “widgets” that allow donors to transfer these assets as easily as using a credit card.
FAQs: Fundraising Websites
Q1: What is the difference between a fundraising platform and a fundraising website? A: Usually, a “platform” refers to the software (the engine), while a “fundraising website” refers to the public-facing site where donors land. Most modern services provide both—a powerful backend for you and a beautiful frontend for your donors.
Q2: Are “free” fundraising websites actually free? A: “Free” usually means there is no monthly subscription or platform fee. However, credit card processing fees (usually around 2.9% + 30¢) are charged by the banks (Visa/Mastercard) and are almost never waived.
Q3: Can I use my own domain name (e.g., donate.mycharity.org)? A: High-end fundraising websites like Classy or RallyUp allow “custom domain masking.” This keeps the donor on your brand’s URL, which increases trust and professional appearance.
Q4: How do I choose between a general site like GoFundMe and a specialized nonprofit site? A: If you are an individual raising money for a friend, use GoFundMe. If you are a registered 501(c)(3) or charity, use a specialized site like Givebutter or Donorbox. Specialized sites offer tax-receipting and donor data that GoFundMe does not.
Q5: What is “Peer-to-Peer” fundraising on these sites? A: This is a feature where your supporters can “create their own page” under your main campaign. For example, a supporter might run a marathon and ask their friends to donate to their specific page, with all the funds going directly to your organization.
