Raffles are a popular way for organizations and individuals to raise money, increase engagement, and grow their audience on Facebook. With Facebook Live, there is an opportunity to host live raffles to make them even more interactive and exciting. However, there are rules and restrictions around raffles on Facebook that need to be considered.
Facebook’s policies on raffles
Facebook has specific policies in place for raffles, contests, and giveaways on both Facebook and Instagram. Here are some key points from their Official Rules:
– Promotions must be administered within Apps on Facebook or Instagram. Comments on Timeline posts or LIve videos do not constitute valid entry methods.
– Private groups and messages cannot be used to administer promotions – they must be visible on an entrant’s timeline.
– Promotions cannot require a donation, payment, or purchase to enter. Requiring participants to like, share, comment, or take other actions to enter is also not allowed.
– Promotions must include a complete release of Facebook by each entrant or participant.
– Terms and eligibility requirements must be clearly stated.
– The timing, bonus entries, and number of entries allowed per person must be clearly disclosed.
– Winners must be chosen at random. Skill-based contests are allowed but chance must play a role.
– Promotions in Australia require permits or licenses.
Requirements for live raffles
If you want to conduct a live raffle on Facebook, you need to follow these rules:
– The raffle must be conducted on a Facebook Page or in a Facebook Group, where it is visible. It cannot be done solely via Facebook Live video comments.
– Entries must be received ahead of time, such as requiring people to register or purchase tickets prior to the live drawing. You cannot accept entries solely during the Facebook Live broadcast.
– The random selection of a winner must occur live during the video.
– The terms and eligibility requirements need to be clearly posted ahead of time.
– Any required permits or licenses need to be obtained based on local laws.
– Proper documentation and record keeping are necessary in case of audit.
Some key things to remember are that you cannot require payment or donations to enter, and chance must play a role in determining the winner. Completely skill-based contests are not allowed.
Best practices
If you do decide to host a live raffle on Facebook, here are some best practices to follow:
– Promote the raffle ahead of time and collect entries/registrations through a Google form or app integrated with Facebook. Clearly communicate the dates, entry details, eligibility, and terms.
– On the day of the live drawing, recap the details and process before selecting a winner. Show the entries or registration list on screen.
– Use a random generator app or pick names/numbers out of a hat on camera. Record the whole process unedited.
– Announce the winner live and notify them through the registration details collected. Have them confirm receipt on camera if possible.
– Properly document and store the registration details, winner selection process, and winner confirmation according to local laws.
– Thank everyone and promote your next event!
Tools
There are various apps and tools that can facilitate live raffles on Facebook:
Raffle and contest apps
– Rafflecopter – Build giveaways, contests, sweepstakes into apps
– Woobox – Create contests, sweepstakes, coupons & more
– ViralSweep – Run viral giveaways & contests on Facebook
– WishPond – Host contests, giveaways & promotions
These tools allow you to create raffles integrated with Facebook that comply with platform policies.
Random selection tools
– Random.org – Generate random numbers, pick random items from lists
– Miniwebtool – Random name and number generator
– RandomPicker – Randomize names, numbers, lists
– Pick Me – Random generator and pick from list tool
Using tools like these live on camera can demonstrate the random selection process.
Streaming and screen sharing
– Facebook Live – Go Live from your Facebook Page
– Streamyard – Live stream with overlays and multi-guests
– OBS Studio – Free open source streaming software
– Loom – Record quick videos or live stream your screen
Use streaming software to broadcast the raffle drawing and share your screen to show the entry details and selection process.
Examples
Here are some examples of organizations hosting live raffles successfully on Facebook:
Charity Raffle
The ALS Association Oregon and SW Washington Chapter promoted a Reverse Raffle & Auction fundraiser on Facebook. Participants purchased $100 tickets for a chance to win a $4000+ prize package. On the event live stream, they used a random number generator to select the reverse raffle winner.
TV Giveaway
Ryan’s Game Reviews held a live giveaway for a 43″ TV during one of his usual review live streams. Viewers entered ahead of time through a Google form he promoted. He randomly selected the winner live on camera using the Random Picker tool.
School Raffle
Simsbury High School in Connecticut held a live raffle drawing broadcast during their Sports Boosters Virtual 5K Race. Participants had purchased raffle tickets earlier. The winners were randomly chosen live using an online tool.
Conclusion
Yes, you can conduct live raffles on Facebook by following the platform policies, obtaining any required permits, collecting entries ahead of time, using random selection tools live, and properly documenting the process. Promoting the raffle and live event ahead of time, communicating clear rules, and following best practices will help ensure your Facebook Live raffle goes smoothly. Just be sure to review Facebook’s guidelines closely and consult local laws before hosting a raffle on the platform.