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10 GiveSmart Alternatives & Competitors

If GiveSmart isn't providing the support your organization needs, it might be time to consider other options.

Finding the right fundraising platform for your nonprofit is like picking the perfect companion for a travel adventure. You need someone who understands your goals, keeps pace with your plans, and makes the ride enjoyable.

Luckily, there are platforms with features that can help you connect with donors, manage events, and reach your goals more effectively. In this article, we'll walk through ten alternatives to GiveSmart. Each one has something unique to offer that could be just what your organization needs.

What Is GiveSmart?

GiveSmart is a fundraising platform established in 2011 and based in Atlanta, Georgia. It combines the experience of several leading fundraising software companies to create a user-friendly and comprehensive solution for nonprofits. 

Operated by Community Brands, GiveSmart is designed to assist fundraisers of all sizes, including nonprofits, foundations, and schools.

The platform offers a range of features, including guest and event management tools, a ticketing portal, and capabilities for accepting online donations. GiveSmart also provides silent auction tools that allow donors to bid directly from their mobile devices.

To date, GiveSmart has partnered with over 8,000 nonprofit organizations, helping raise more than $8 billion. The platform is supported by a team of over 100 staff members.

Key Features to Consider in Alternatives to GiveSmart

When looking for alternatives to GiveSmart, there are a few key features to consider that can make a big difference in your fundraising efforts. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • 01. Budget-Friendly Options

    One of GiveSmart's major drawbacks is its cost. With a starting price of around $2,395 per year—roughly $200 a month—plus additional processing fees, it may not fit the budget of many nonprofits. 

    You might want to look for platforms that offer a more affordable pricing structure.

  • 02. Transparent Pricing

    Many GiveSmart users have faced issues with billing, including repeated charges, confusing invoices, and even threats of account deactivation. Choosing an alternative with simple and transparent pricing is important to avoid these headaches.

  • 03. Reliable Customer Service

    Some users label GiveSmart's customer support as poor, with reports of miscommunication and unresponsive service. 

    It’s crucial to find an alternative that offers reliable customer service that’s there when you need it, especially during important fundraising events.

  • 04. Advanced Customization

    Customization is essential for nonprofits to make their brand stand out to donors. GiveSmart offers a few options, but even these often highlight the platform's identity rather than your own. 

    Consider an alternative offering advanced customization so your branding shines through every interaction.

  • 05. Free Training Resources

    Many users found they needed to purchase extra training to understand GiveSmart's tools effectively. 

    When comparing alternatives, look for platforms that provide free training resources so your team can make the most of the software without extra costs.

  • 06. User-Friendly Experience

    Some users have described the learning curve for GiveSmart as overwhelming, which can delay your fundraising activities. 

    Seek out a platform that is easy to use right from the start so you can focus on your mission rather than spending time on training.

  • 07. Glitch-Free Platform

    Many GiveSmart users reported glitches, such as donors being charged multiple times or missed notifications for donations. 

    To avoid these issues, look for an alternative that provides a stable, glitch-free experience to keep your events running smoothly.

  • 08. Effective Communication Tools

    Streamlining communication is essential, but GiveSmart users have faced challenges managing tasks like sending receipts or thank-you messages. Ensure any platform you consider allows for easy communication with donors to keep them engaged.

  • 09. Better Auction Features

    Auctions are a key part of many fundraisers, but GiveSmart's tools can be limiting. 

    For instance, shared links often direct users to the general campaign rather than specific auction items. Look for an alternative that offers better auction management.

  • 10. Comprehensive CRM Integrations

    GiveSmart offers free integration with its own CRM but charges extra to connect with other common CRM providers. Additionally, their reporting tools provide limited insights. 

    Choosing an alternative offering broader and more cost-effective CRM integrations can help you get deeper insights into your donor data and event performance.

Here are some of the alternative platforms to GiveSmart.

10 Best Alternatives To GiveSmart

01. BetterWorld

BetterWorld is the top alternative to GiveSmart, and for good reason. 

Unlike many platforms, BetterWorld offers all its features with zero platform fees. Thanks to its user-friendly tools and transparent pricing structure, 97% of users say they would use BetterWorld again.

BetterWorld provides everything GiveSmart does but takes it a step further with a simpler pricing structure, better communication features, and a seamless auction experience. 

It’s specifically designed for nonprofits, charities, schools, and churches. With BetterWorld, you can set up a campaign and start raising money in just five minutes after choosing from various fundraising methods that best suit your needs.

The platform also adapts to your fundraising style—whether you plan to host an in-person, virtual, or hybrid event. BetterWorld simplifies the process by allowing donors to participate without requiring you to download an app or go through pre-registration. 

Simply share the link to your campaign, and you’re good to go.

Signing up for BetterWorld is completely free. In minutes, you’ll have a convenient place to manage campaigns, collect donations, and monitor your progress—all without hidden fees. Plus, you keep 100% of the funds you raise, which makes it a truly budget-friendly option. 

Sign up today to see why so many nonprofits stick with it over other platforms.

BetterWorld Key Features

  • Donor Engagement
  • Alumni Engagement
  • Hybrid Events
  • Zero Platform Fee
  • Unlimited Use
  • PCI Compliant

Pros

  • One of the biggest advantages BetterWorld has over GiveSmart is that it’s free to use.
  • BetterWorld offers more fundraising solutions and has helped over 100,000 nonprofit organizations successfully run campaigns.

Cons

  • BetterWorld is specifically designed for nonprofits. This makes it an excellent fit for charities, schools, and churches but unsuitable for other organizations.

Pricing

  • Platform Fee: There is no platform fee with BetterWorld. You keep all the funds you raise.
  • Transaction Fee: Credit card transactions are subject to a 2.9% + $0.30, and most donors typically cover these costs.

Overall Rating

(Capterra)
4.7 / 5.0

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