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Maximizing Fundraising Success: Insights from BetterWorld’s Galas & Events Webinar

By Whit Hunter on

As part of their "Spring Into Fundraising" series, BetterWorld hosted a dynamic and insightful session focused on how nonprofits can supercharge their fundraising through galas, ticketed events, and smart campaign strategies. Hosted by Kelly Jean Hayes, Head of Marketing, and featuring Jessica, BetterWorld’s resident fundraising consultant, the webinar unpacked practical tips for planning and executing successful fundraising events.

Why Galas and Events Still Matter

Despite the digital shift, in-person and hybrid events continue to be a cornerstone for nonprofit fundraising. Events create memorable moments that bring supporters together, deepen donor relationships, and offer a platform for storytelling. As Jessica pointed out, “Events are not just about fundraising—they’re about building community and reinforcing your mission.”

Strategic Ticketing: More Than Just Entry

A major highlight of the discussion was the importance of using ticketing strategically. Rather than thinking of tickets as mere entry passes, nonprofits should view them as tools for donor segmentation and engagement. Tiered pricing, early bird specials, and bundled packages (such as VIP tables or drink vouchers) can all create opportunities to upsell and elevate the donor experience.

Jessica emphasized the role of digital tools in simplifying the ticketing process. With platforms like BetterWorld, organizations can easily manage ticket sales, track attendee data, and even integrate donation prompts at checkout.

Creating a Donor-Centric Event Experience

Another powerful point from the webinar was the shift towards donor-centric event design. From personalized invitations to post-event follow-ups, nonprofits were encouraged to create seamless, engaging experiences that make supporters feel valued.

Jessica shared actionable ideas such as:

  • Offering mobile check-in to reduce lines.
  • Including donor recognition during speeches or presentations.
  • Incorporating storytelling elements throughout the event (e.g., impact videos, live testimonials).

The goal, she said, is to turn event attendees into long-term advocates.

In-person events and galas made easy!

  • Mobile Check-In — easily track and check in donors into any event from any device

  • Keep your bidders coming back with optional outbid notifications via text

  • Raise additional funds for your event by displaying sponsors on your online pages

  • Downloadable table cards with short-links & QR codes to make it easy to bid

Raise More Funds with BetterWorld!

Data-Driven Fundraising

The BetterWorld team also discussed the value of using data to refine event strategy. By tracking metrics like ticket sales trends, donation conversion rates, and attendee feedback, nonprofits can make informed decisions for future campaigns.

Kelly noted that “every event is a chance to learn. When you look at your data, you can see what resonated with your donors and what didn’t—and adjust accordingly.”

Final Thoughts

As the session wrapped up, the key message was clear: fundraising events are still one of the most powerful tools in a nonprofit’s toolkit—if done strategically. With the right planning, tech, and donor-focused mindset, organizations can turn galas and ticketed events into high-impact fundraising powerhouses.

Whether you’re planning a black-tie gala, a casual trivia night, or a hybrid benefit concert, the tools and tips shared in this webinar can help you fundraise smarter and connect deeper with your community.

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Whit Hunter
AUTHOR

About Whit Hunter

Whit Hunter is the co-founder of BetterWorld, the free, easy-to-use online fundraising platform. His passion for empowering nonprofits and tech expertise have shaped BetterWorld’s mission to make fundraising more accessible and efficient.

Whit's innovative vision has helped countless organizations raise more funds and reach their goals, driving BetterWorld’s ongoing success.

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