Best Silent Auction Software for Nonprofits in 2026

Silent auctions continue to be one of the most powerful ways for nonprofits to raise money at events — they spark excitement, encourage competition, and boost giving. But without the right platform, even the best-planned auction can quickly become overwhelming.

In 2026, the best silent auction software goes far beyond digital bid sheets. Nonprofits need mobile bidding, instant payments, ticketing, raffles, and donation tools — all in one system designed for today’s digital-first donors.

At GalaBid, we’ve reviewed the leading platforms available in 2026. Here’s how they compare, and which might be the right fit for your nonprofit.

Why Silent Auction Software Matters in 2026

- Mobile-first donors: Guests expect to bid on their phones.

- Integrated payments: Collecting funds instantly reduces unpaid pledges.

- Real-time bidding: Live updates create competition and higher bids.

- Event integration: Auctions work best when tied into ticketing, raffles, and donations.

Without a modern solution, nonprofits risk lost revenue, frustrated supporters, and unnecessary admin headaches.

1. GalaBid – Best All-in-One Silent Auction Software

Overview:

‍GalaBid is purpose-built for nonprofits hosting fundraising events. It combines silent auctions, raffles, ticketing, and donations in one seamless platform, with mobile bidding at its core.

Key Features

- Mobile bidding with live updates

- Unlimited auction items

- Instant checkout with Stripe (no markup)

- Donors can cover transaction fees

- 24/7 live human support via chat, WhatsApp, or scheduled calls

- Unique: 10% of optional donor tips donated back to your cause

Fees

- Platform: $0 (funded by donor tips)

- Transactions: Stripe 2.9% + $0.30

Reviews

- Capterra 4.7/5 (proven track record with nonprofits worldwide)

Why Choose GalaBid:

Best choice if you want more than just auctions. GalaBid lets you manage the whole event fundraising ecosystem — auctions, raffles, ticketing, and donations — without platform fees.

Book a demo or start free with GalaBid today.

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2. BetterWorld – Free Auction Platform

Overview:

‍BetterWorld is another nonprofit-first solution, focused on making online and live auctions accessible at no cost.

Key Features

- Online and hybrid auctions

- Peer-to-peer fundraising add-ons

- Donor-funded fee model

Fees

- Platform: $0 (funded by donor tips)

- Transactions: Stripe 2.9% + $0.30

Support

- Chat and scheduled calls

Reviews

- Capterra 4.7/5

Why Choose BetterWorld:

‍Best for nonprofits wanting a simple, free online auction tool, though support and event features aren’t as comprehensive as other providers.

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3. Givebutter – Social Campaigns with Auction Add-On

Overview

‍Givebutter began as a donation and peer-to-peer platform and now includes auction functionality alongside its core campaign tools.

Key Features

- Online and in-person auctions

- Peer-to-peer fundraising campaigns

- Ticketing and donation pages

Fees

- Platform: $0 with tips, 3% if tips disabled

- Transactions: 2.9% + $0.30 (cards), 1.9% + $0.30 (ACH)

Support

- 24/7 chat and email

Reviews

- Capterra 4.8/5

Why Choose Givebutter:

‍Best if you want auctions layered into broader fundraising campaigns like crowdfunding plus gala events.

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4. Handbid – Auction-Focused Platform

Overview

‍Handbid is one of the longest-running auction-specific platforms, with strong tools for mobile bidding and live auction events.

Key Features

- Mobile bidding app

- Paddle raise and live auction support

- Reporting dashboard

Fees

- Platform: Starts around $695/year + event fees

- Transactions: Stripe fees apply

Support

- Help center and support team

Reviews

- Well rated for auction-specific use

Why Choose Handbid:

‍Best for nonprofits that want a dedicated auction app, though pricing is higher than donor-tipped models.

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5. OneCause – Enterprise Auction Solution

Overview

‍OneCause is designed for larger nonprofits, offering enterprise-level event fundraising tools, including silent auctions.

Key Features

- Mobile bidding, paddle raise, and ticketing

- Donor CRM integrations

- Full-service support

Fees

- Platform: Custom enterprise pricing

- Transactions: Payment processing fees apply

Support

- Full-service client success team

Reviews

- Strong reputation, especially among large U.S. nonprofits

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Why Choose OneCause:

Best for enterprise nonprofits with complex fundraising needs and bigger budgets.

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FAQs About Silent Auction Software in 2026

Q: Which silent auction software is free?
A: GalaBid, BetterWorld, and Givebutter all offer $0 platform fees, funded by optional donor tips. It's worth noting that Galabid also returns 10% of all campaign tips back to the organising charity or non-profit.

Q: Which platform is best for mobile bidding?
A: GalaBid and Handbid both excel in mobile-first auctions with real-time bidding and instant checkout.

Q: Which silent auction software integrates ticketing and donations?
A: GalaBid is the strongest option for nonprofits that want auctions plus ticketing, raffles, and donations in one place.

Q: Which is best for large enterprise nonprofits?
A: OneCause is designed for larger organizations with complex event needs and CRM integrations.

Q: Can donors cover transaction fees?
A: Yes. GalaBid, Givebutter, and BetterWorld all allow donors to cover Stripe fees.

Final Word: Best Silent Auction Software for Nonprofits in 2026

Choose BetterWorld if you need a simple, free online auction tool.

Choose Givebutter if you’re focused on peer-to-peer fundraising with auctions added in.

Choose Handbid if you want a specialist auction app with live auction features.

Choose OneCause if you’re a large nonprofit with complex enterprise needs.

But for most nonprofits, GalaBid is the clear leader in 2026 — offering all-in-one functionality, no platform fees, donor-friendly features, and 24/7 human support.

👉 Start free or book a demo with GalaBid today.

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