Raffle Advice

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Virtual Raffle

Author:
Nina Kempster
-
Fundraising events support
Updated:
March 25, 2024

Hosting a raffle can be time-consuming and stressful - but it doesn’t have to be

If you find yourself struggling with the downsides of trying to organise mountains of paper raffle tickets, you can opt for a virtual raffle instead. It can streamline everything from purchasing tickets, to drawing your raffle, to prize allocation. Always begin your raffle planning by checking the gambling laws that are applicable in your area.

Next, to find the right online platform to suit your needs, you’ll need to look out for several important features. I’m here to run you through some tips and tricks on what to look out for when selecting the ideal Virtual Raffle platform.

An online raffle can be an effective way to raise funds

Ease Of Use

First off, ease of use is essential.

Choose a platform that offers an attractive and user-friendly interface, both for the organisers and the raffle ticket purchasers. Your raffle item should be easy to create and edit, and you should be able to add as many prizes and images as you’d like.

The platform should also have an appealing and straightforward design that will ensure that your event supporters can participate easily. After all, the easier it is to buy tickets, the more tickets you’ll sell. You’ll also want purchasers to easily buy tickets from any device, mobiles and desktops alike without needing to down load an app.

Design

Ok, next up is branding and display design.

Look for a fundraising raffle platform that will let you add in your organisation’s custom branding. You should be able to add a logo, your desired colour scheme, and even a background image or custom font.

Adding in branding and info pages on how the funds raised will be used can really make your Raffle look professional, giving your supporters confidence to participate.

Payment Options

Another important feature is payment options for the purchaser.

Payments should be secure and user-friendly. Check to see if Google and Apple Pay come as standard, and see if they allow sellers to accept cash or offline card payments.

Also, look for an option that lets you set your own ticket pricing, including adding bulk ticket packages with custom amounts.

Raffle Draw

Next, you’ll want to ensure that the online Raffle draw will be randomized. You’ll also want to select a platform that makes the Raffle Draw simple and straightforward. Choose one that has an option to close Raffle ticket sales, and then draw the winners individually.

Projector Displays

To encourage engagement amongst your participants, you can display your Raffle Draw at a live event or stream it live online. Look for a platform that offers Projector Displays which include of the following:

  • Raffle Draw, which should be linked directly to your raffle item, and which will be triggered instantly when you initiatiate the ‘Raffle Draw’
  • Raffle Winners List, which should display the names and ticket numbers of the prize winners in the order that you draw.
  • Custom Branding & Edits, you should be provided with the option to showcase your raffle with a customized display.

Look for extra features such as pop-up notifications that showcase the names of the winners alongside their ticket numbers.

Notifications

Now, let’s talk about notifications.

Keep your participants updated and encouraged with customisable messages, such as providing updates on Raffle Draw times and direct links encouraging final ticket purchases. Automatic notifications should be sent to the winning ticket holder with their name and ticket number.

An extra-useful option is a platform that allows you to contact your participants after they’ve won their raffle, to inform them how they can collect their prizes or who to contact if they would like them delivered.

Customer Service

Lastly, great service and support will ensure your virtual raffle runs without a hitch!

Look for a platform that offers prompt and reliable customer support. This might be in the form of online guides and videos, FAQS, or a support team – or ideally all three! A dedicated support service will assist you every step of the way, making your fundraising journey smooth and stress-free.

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