The constraint
Small nonprofits (under 500 members) need a platform that runs on a volunteer board without a full-time admin. Cost is capped; complexity tolerance is near zero.
1. Covey
Plans from $49/month, priced by active members rather than contacts, with every feature on every plan. All-in-one (dues, events, email, donations) reduces tool count. Migration and onboarding included on every plan.
2. Wild Apricot
Entry tier starts at $66/month for 100 contacts (checked September 30, 2026). Good fit for orgs willing to tolerate dated UI.
3. Zeffy
Free donation platform. Works if donations are your primary motion; lighter on membership.
4. Join It
$29/month entry. Works if you already have Mailchimp and Eventbrite. Low ceiling.
5. Spreadsheet + PayPal
Still used by many small orgs. Works until it does not. Board time to maintain grows with member count.
6. Raklet (free tier)
Free up to 500 members. Global platform with uneven polish.
Short answer
Most small nonprofits are best served by Covey or Wild Apricot once they outgrow the spreadsheet. Zeffy is worth considering if donations dominate. Join It is a placeholder that works until you hit its limits.