GivingData vs Zeffy: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between GivingData and Zeffy comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: GivingData is our overall pick for grants management workflows. Pick Zeffy if you need fundraising.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
GivingData
Grantmaking software that powers your purpose by uniting funders and grantees.
Best for you if:
- • You need grants management features specifically
- • Streamlines the entire grants lifecycle for foundations.
- • Fosters trust-based relationships and collaboration between funders and grantees.
Zeffy
All-in-one fundraising platform with zero fees for nonprofits.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need fundraising features specifically
- • 100% free fundraising platform for nonprofits.
- • Covers all transaction and platform fees.
| At a Glance |  GivingData |  Zeffy |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Custom | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Grants Management | Fundraising |
Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.8/5 |
Choose GivingData or Zeffy?
Choose GivingData if
Grantmaking software that powers your purpose by uniting funders and grantees.
- Unites funders and grantees for collaborative problem-solving
- Empowers teams and grantees through real-time information sharing
- Strengthens the work of the entire foundation
- Your work is grants management-shaped, not fundraising-shaped
Choose Zeffy if
All-in-one fundraising platform with zero fees for nonprofits.
- Truly 100% free with no hidden fees, platform fees, or transaction fees.
- Nonprofits keep 100% of all funds raised.
- Comprehensive suite of fundraising tools in one platform.
- You want a fully free tool (GivingData requires payment)
- Your work is fundraising-shaped, not grants management-shaped
| Feature | GivingData | Zeffy |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Free |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 79 reviews | ★4.8/5 880 reviews |
| Categories | Grants ManagementNonprofit Tools | FundraisingNonprofit Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
GivingData
Grantmaking software that powers your purpose by uniting funders and grantees.
Strengths
- +Unites funders and grantees for collaborative problem-solving
- +Empowers teams and grantees through real-time information sharing
- +Strengthens the work of the entire foundation
- +Focuses on building trust-based relationships
- +Offers a community for learning and growth among grantmakers
Weaknesses
- -Pricing information is not publicly available, requiring a demo request.
- -No explicit mention of a free trial or free tier.
Key features
Zeffy
All-in-one fundraising platform with zero fees for nonprofits.
Strengths
- +Truly 100% free with no hidden fees, platform fees, or transaction fees.
- +Nonprofits keep 100% of all funds raised.
- +Comprehensive suite of fundraising tools in one platform.
- +Automates administrative tasks like tax receipts.
- +Supports various payment methods for donor convenience.
Weaknesses
- -Relies on optional donor tips for its business model, which might not always cover all costs.
- -May not offer the same level of advanced features or integrations as some paid enterprise solutions.
Key features
Pricing: GivingData vs Zeffy
| Plan | GivingData | Zeffy |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Request Quote Go | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | Request Quote Pro | N/A |
| Tier 3 | Request Quote Enterprise | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on GivingData pricing and Zeffy pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Zeffy is free. GivingData is paid.
Go with: Zeffy
Want the highest-rated option?
GivingData: 4.5/5 (79 reviews). Zeffy: 4.8/5 (880 reviews).
Go with: Zeffy
Value user reviews?
GivingData: 79 reviews (4.5/5). Zeffy: 880 reviews (4.8/5).
Go with: Zeffy
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
GivingData is paid. Zeffy is free. Go with Zeffy if free matters most.
What's your use case?
GivingData is a grants management tool. Zeffy is in fundraising. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Zeffy is rated higher: 4.8/5 vs 4.5/5.
Key Takeaways
GivingData
- Our pick for this comparison
Zeffy
- Completely free
- Higher user rating: 4.8/5 vs 4.5/5
- Larger review base (880 reviews)
- Better fit for fundraising
The Bottom Line
GivingData is our pick. That said, Zeffy is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GivingData or Zeffy better?
GivingData is rated in our evaluation. GivingData is paid and Zeffy is free.
What are GivingData and Zeffy used for?
GivingData: Grantmaking software that powers your purpose by uniting funders and grantees.. Zeffy: All-in-one fundraising platform with zero fees for nonprofits..
What does GivingData cost vs Zeffy?
GivingData is a paid tool. Zeffy is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.