🚀 The Event Playbook:
Proven strategies to level up your next event!
Audience attending a virtual event presentation for nonprofits.

Nonprofit Virtual Events: Best Practices for Online Engagement

Virtual events have emerged as an indispensable tool for organizations seeking to expand their reach, deepen their impact, and forge meaningful connections with supporters worldwide.

In this era of relentless innovation, the landscape for organizations is being reimagined.

Transcending geographical bounds, virtual events have emerged as a game-changing catalyst.

They shatter limitations and unlock uncharted realms of opportunity.

As your trusted ally, we at We & Goliath have witnessed firsthand the profound impact these digital convergences can unleash.

Countless organizations have harnessed our guidance to navigate this exhilarating new frontier, unlocking unprecedented triumphs.

Today, we’re honored to share the wisdom distilled from our experiences, empowering you to elevate your forthcoming virtual gathering to soaring new heights.

A smiling woman using a laptop at home.
A yellow and black square on a black background.
An orange and black arrow with a black background.

Join the Virtual Event Revolution!

Let our crew of creative tech wizards cast an online engagement spell to mesmerize your audiences into a virtual frenzy! 

Why is Embracing the Virtual Revolution Mission-Critical?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty strategies, let’s explore the myriad compelling reasons why virtual events have become an indispensable asset for you.

Transcending Physical Constraints

With these digital marvels, you wave goodbye to the physical constraints that once boxed you in.

Your voice can now resonate with supporters in every corner of the globe – no more venue capacity limits holding you back!

Compared to traditional in-person affairs, virtual gatherings deliver massive cost savings right to your bottom line.

Say farewell to steep venue rentals, catering costs, printed materials, travel expenses, and so many other financial burdens.

Those budget-busters can stay in the past where they belong.

Tailored Experiences and Insightful Analytics

The virtual realm hands you the power to meticulously craft audience experiences tailored to their unique interests and preferences.

Let your imagination run wild with interactive workshops, celebrity performances, immersive networking – the possibilities are genuinely endless.

These innovative digital tools reinvent what attendee engagement looks like.

Lively chat rooms, real-time polls, intimate breakout sessions?

With virtual events, passive observers transform into active participants who help shape the trajectory.

And online events grant you exclusive access to a wealth of attendee insights you can’t get anywhere else.

By analyzing those engagement metrics, feedback, and behavioral patterns, you can refine your strategies and elevate future endeavors.

With the “why” firmly established, let’s turn to the “how” – a masterful tapestry of strategies to weave an unforgettable virtual experience that exceeds your wildest expectations.

Get “The Event Success Playbook”

Our proven event planning playbook has step-by-step strategies to increase qualified leads 25%+, grow revenue, and boost engagement.

A person holding a tablet.
A yellow and black square on a black background.
An orange and black arrow with a black background.

Mastering an Exceptional Virtual Event

Ready to embark on a thrilling journey into the world of virtual events?

Buckle up, because we’re about to dive deep into the essential strategies and techniques that will help you create an extraordinary digital gathering that leaves a lasting impact on your audience.

1. Clarifying Objectives and Understanding Your Audience

First up, you’ll want to take a step back and get clarity on your overarching objectives.

  • What specific outcomes are you hoping to achieve with this digital gathering?

Maybe you’re aiming to raise a certain amount of funds or attract a fresh wave of new donors.

Or perhaps strengthening those bonds with your existing supporters is the top priority.

By crystallizing your purpose from the get-go, you create a guiding light that will illuminate every decision along the way.

But that’s not all – developing an intimate understanding of your target audience is equally crucial.

  • Who exactly are these individuals you’re trying to captivate?
  • What unique interests, preferences and pain points do they have?

When you can inhabit their world and see things through their eyes, that’s when the magic happens.

You’ll be able to craft an experience that connects on a truly personal level.

So give some thought to the content, activities and interactions that will really strike a chord.

  • What topics will ignite their passion and leave them hungry for more?
  • What session formats will kindle that enthusiasm and inspire them to take action?
The more you can align every aspect with your audience’s needs and desires, the more irresistible your event becomes – a magnet drawing them in and keeping them engaged until the very end.

2. Channeling Technology’s Potential

Now for the tech side of things.

The caliber of your virtual event hinges entirely on the technology powering it all.

With so many platforms out there boasting different bells and whistles, choosing one that’s fully aligned with your goals and audience preferences is paramount.

That’s why we take such pride in crafting bespoke digital experiences that deliver a flawless, fully-branded journey for your attendees.

When evaluating contenders, prioritize key features such as:

  • Seamless Livestreaming: Ensure reliable, high-quality broadcasting for keynotes, panel discussions, and live performances.
  • Interactive Elements: Seek tools that foster real-time engagement – live chats, Q&As, and polls cultivate a sense of community.
  • Breakout Rooms: For larger events, these intimate spaces facilitate focused discussions and invaluable networking opportunities.
  • User-Friendly Experience: Intuitive interfaces and seamless navigation ensure accessibility for attendees across technical skill levels.

Don’t stop there, though!

Round out your core platform with complementary technologies that double-down on engagement.

A mobile app provides convenient access while gamification injects some friendly competition and fun into the mix.

At the end of the day, your tech should enable, not hinder.

So opt for reliable, scalable, intuitive solutions.

And if you need expert guidance, our team is ready to ensure flawless technical execution from start to finish.

3. Curating a Captivating Journey

At the heart of any extraordinary virtual event beats a meticulously crafted program designed to educate, entertain, and ignite passion.

To keep your attendees captivated from the opening keynote down to the closing remarks, you’ll need to strike that perfect balance between substance and style.

Finding the Rhythm

Let’s talk about finding that rhythm.

The key is integrating a dynamic mix of session formats to keep your audience perpetually on the edge of their seats.

  • Thought-Provoking Keynotes: Invite luminaries, experts, or celebrity advocates to deliver powerful addresses that set the tone and provide invaluable insights.
  • Dynamic Panel Discussions: Assemble diverse speakers to explore topics from multiple angles, sparking lively debates that engage attendees.
  • Skill-Building Workshops: Offer hands-on, interactive sessions that empower participants with practical, actionable strategies.
  • Networking Opportunities: Dedicated spaces for meaningful connections, such as virtual happy hours or topic-based groups.
  • Entertainment Interludes: Inject moments of levity with musical performances, comedy sketches, or guided mindfulness exercises.

Putting Your Audience First

When designing this program, just keep your audience top of mind.

  • What subjects will resonate most profoundly?
  • What formats will keep their energy soaring throughout?

The more you can weave interactivity into every single facet – encouraging questions, shared experiences, that collective wisdom – the more indelible an impact you’ll make.

An actively involved audience is an engaged audience.

 

Easy starting packages • Advanced options • Proven results

 

4. Effective Promotion Strategies

Now for the fun part: getting the word out!

After all, even the most extraordinary virtual event is only as successful as the audience it attracts.

That calls for executing a killer promotional strategy.

Craft a compelling event page that vividly illustrates the immense value your attendees will get.

Use eye-catching visuals, persuasive copy, clear calls-to-action – go all out in generating excitement!

Harnessing Existing Channels

From there, leverage your existing communication channels to spread the word far and wide.

  • Targeted Email Campaigns: Craft personalized invitations that speak directly to subscriber segments’ interests and needs. Compelling subject lines, engaging content, and clear CTAs drive registrations.
  • Social Media Buzz: Tap into viral potential by sharing teaser videos, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and testimonials to pique curiosity.
  • Influencer Partnerships: Amplify your message through thought leaders who can lend credibility and expand your reach.
  • Paid Advertising: Allocate a portion of your budget to targeted ads on platforms like Facebook or Google to attract new audiences.

Creating Urgency and FOMO

Throughout all your promotional efforts, make sure to highlight those unique, exclusive, can’t-miss elements that’ll have attendees chomping at the bit to join.

We’re talking marquee speakers, uber-interactive sessions, premium networking opportunities – the works.

Convey any sense of urgency like fast-approaching registration deadlines or limited ticket availability.

And strategically use social proof by sprinkling in glowing testimonials to reinforce your credibility and value.

5. Strategies for Captivating Attendees

But your efforts can’t culminate when the virtual event kicks off – that’s just when the real magic begins!

Actively engaging attendees throughout and even after is pivotal to maximizing impact.

Dedicated Moderators and Facilitators

During the live event itself, you’ll want dedicated moderators and facilitators serving as guides.

They’ll field questions, steer discussions, and keep those energy levels uber-high.

Encourage active participation by providing live chats, polls, and Q&A sessions that allow attendees to contribute their own valuable insights and ideas.

Surprise-and-Delight Moments

And don’t forget those delightful surprise-and-delight moments!

Maybe it’s a virtual photo booth for snapping silly selfies or a surprise celebrity cameo that leaves everyone buzzing.

These little wows add an air of freshness and excitement.

Gamification for Excitement

Speaking of excitement, gamification is a powerful way to ignite it.

Incorporate challenges, quizzes, scavenger hunts – letting attendees earn points or prizes as they explore different areas of your event and interact with one another.

A little friendly competition can go a long way.

Networking Opportunities

You’ll also want to provide plenty of networking opportunities through dedicated sessions or those more intimate breakout rooms.

This is where the magic of meaningful connections happens!

You could even set up a “buddy system” pairing attendees with similar backgrounds or goals to create built-in support squads.

Post-Event Engagement

But don’t let the engagement fizzle out when the virtual curtain closes.

Follow up with key takeaways, resources, and action steps to help attendees apply their newfound knowledge and keep that momentum going.

Post-event surveys gathering candid feedback are invaluable for refining your approach down the road.

Establish an online community hub where connections can continue to thrive long after – whether a private Facebook group, Slack channel or exclusive forum.

Nurturing that sense of belonging pays dividends.

Celebrating Impact

Finally, celebrate your event’s impact!

Share stories, testimonials, data points – anything that spotlights the tangible difference you made.

Whether funds raised, new donors acquired, or insights gained, shouting those successes from the rooftops will build excitement for future initiatives.

With these engagement strategies locked and loaded, you’re equipped to craft virtual events that educate, entertain and activate your audience in lasting, profound ways.

Careful planning, audience-centric design, and obsessive engagement focus – those are the keys to delivering utterly unforgettable experiences.

Want expert guidance & exclusive deals on top online event software? Contact us today and save!

As a preferred production partner with top virtual event platforms, we get exclusive discounts and pass the savings along to our clients.

Unlocking Inspiration: Creative Virtual Event Concepts

Now that we’ve explored the nuts and bolts of crafting an exceptional virtual gathering, it’s time to let your creativity run wild!

We’ve put together a collection of inventive event concepts designed to captivate and delight your audience.

Whether your goal is pure entertainment, rallying support, or fostering connections, these ideas will help you create an experience that truly resonates with your mission and values.

Virtual Charity Auction

Virtual charity auctions allow your supporters to engage in friendly competition to bid on an array of one-of-a-kind treasures.

From stunning artworks to exclusive one-of-a-kind finds, these generously donated items not only raise crucial funds but also provide an incredibly thrilling experience for your attendees.

To ensure success, curate a diverse selection of appealing auction items, provide detailed descriptions and high-quality images, set a realistic timeline for bidding, encourage competition by showcasing top bids, and celebrate the winning bidders who demonstrate their generosity and support.

Digital Culinary Journey

If you’re looking to savor flavors while nurturing connections, consider embarking on a digital culinary journey.

Partner with a renowned chef to host virtual cooking classes that align with your organization’s values, such as plant-based cuisine or zero-waste recipes.

As attendees follow along from their own kitchens, they’ll acquire invaluable skills and deepen their connection to your cause.

To enhance the experience, provide ingredient lists in advance, encourage participants to share their culinary creations on social media, offer downloadable recipe cards or a digital cookbook, and consider incorporating a storytelling element that shares the cultural significance or personal meaning behind each dish.

Online Fitness Challenge

For those passionate about wellness, an online fitness challenge can be an invigorating way to inspire your supporters while fueling change.

Participants pledge to complete a set number of workouts, miles, or yoga sessions over a specified period, all while collecting donations from their networks.

To amplify engagement, partner with skilled instructors to lead live virtual classes catering to various fitness levels.

Provide clear guidelines and achievable goals, offer a variety of workout options, encourage participants to share their progress and cheer each other on, celebrate milestones and achievements, and consider offering prizes or incentives for top fundraisers or dedicated participants.

Virtual Film Festival

If you want to illuminate minds and ignite change, curate a thought-provoking virtual film festival showcasing documentaries, shorts, and feature-length productions aligned with your organization’s values.

Enhance the experience with live Q&A sessions featuring filmmakers or subject matter experts, creating a space for meaningful dialogue and inspiring actionable change.

Carefully select films that resonate with your audience, provide a user-friendly streaming platform, encourage attendees to share their thoughts and reflections, consider offering a “Viewer’s Choice” award, and explore the possibility of hosting virtual panel discussions or workshops related to the themes explored in the films.

Digital Talent Showcase

To celebrate creativity and unite communities, shine a spotlight on your supporters’ diverse talents by hosting a virtual talent show spectacular.

Invite participants to submit videos showcasing their skills—singing, dancing, comedy, or any other talent they wish to share.

Take the experience to the next level by allowing attendees to vote for their favorite acts, fostering a sense of camaraderie.

Establish clear guidelines for video submissions, create a dedicated platform for viewing and voting, consider incorporating a fundraising element such as “tipping” favorite acts, announce winners during a live virtual ceremony, and showcase the top performances on your organization’s website and social media channels.

Online Trivia Night

If you want to engage minds and spur friendly competition, put your audience’s knowledge to the test with an electrifying virtual trivia night.

Craft thought-provoking questions related to your mission, interspersed with general knowledge brain-teasers to keep participants on their toes.

Attendees can compete individually or in teams, vying for bragging rights and exciting prizes.

Utilize a user-friendly platform for real-time scoring and leaderboards, incorporate multimedia elements to add variety, encourage friendly banter through live chat or virtual “team huddles,” consider offering bonus points for creative team names or costumes, and provide a mix of question difficulties to ensure everyone can participate and enjoy the experience.

Virtual Book Club

For those seeking to foster dialogue and inspire change, embark on a literary adventure by selecting a book that resonates with your organization’s mission and hosting a virtual book club discussion.

Invite the author to participate in a live Q&A session or lead the conversation yourself, creating an environment conducive to meaningful dialogue and personal growth.

Choose a book that sparks important conversations, provide discussion questions or prompts, consider breaking attendees into smaller virtual “breakout rooms” for intimate discussions, encourage participants to share their own experiences and insights, and explore the possibility of creating a virtual resource guide or action plan based on the book’s key takeaways.

Embrace the Virtual Revolution

As the landscape continues to evolve, virtual events have emerged as a powerful tool for organizations seeking to expand their reach, deepen their impact, and forge meaningful connections with supporters worldwide.

By following the best practices and strategies outlined here, you can create virtual event experiences that educate, inspire, and activate your audience in profound ways.

The key to a successful virtual event lies in careful planning, audience-centric design, and a relentless focus on engagement.

By harnessing the power of technology, crafting compelling programs, and creating opportunities for interaction and connection, you can deliver unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impact on your attendees and your cause.

Soar to New Heights with We & Goliath

As a trailblazer in your field, you understand the transformative power of virtual events to amplify your mission and connect with supporters worldwide.

At We & Goliath, we’re here to help you harness that power and soar to new heights.

With our award-winning strategies, cutting-edge platforms, and unwavering dedication, we’ll co-create an unforgettable virtual experience that engages, inspires, and drives real change.

Together, we’ll shatter barriers, exceed expectations, and make a lasting impact on the world.

The future of events is virtual – and with We & Goliath by your side, the possibilities are endless.

Let’s embark on this extraordinary journey together.

A yellow and blue logo on a dark background.
We & Goliath

We & Goliath is an award-winning, top 100 worldwide event agency known for increasing conference attendance by 7X and profits by 3X through beautifully designed virtual, hybrid, and in-person events. Since 1999, their team of innovative strategists and creative designers has worked with global enterprises, SMBs, non-profits, and other organizations to engage audiences and exceed expectations.

A black background with a red, yellow, and blue square.
Shopping Basket
A woman sitting on the floor with a laptop.

We create iconic events that generate buzz.

Let us help you smash your engagement goals and set attendance records.

Free for a Limited Time ($500 Value)