Virtual event platforms enable organizations to plan, manage, and host online events that replicate the engagement, interactivity, and value of in-person experiences. These platforms support a wide range of event formats, including conferences, trade shows, association meetings, and job fairs, and provide flexible tools for both fully virtual and hybrid events.

Core capabilities of virtual event platforms

Virtual event platforms typically include:

• Webcasting and webinar integrations, either built-in or via connections with webinar software
• Event registration, ticketing , and payment processing tools
• Agenda and session management for multi-track or multi-day events
• Engagement features like live Q&A, polls, chat, breakout rooms, and one-to-one networking
• Sponsor and exhibitor booth functionality to replicate expo-style experiences
• Mobile accessibility through cross-device support and dedicated mobile event apps
• Post-event analytics and reporting to track performance
• Integrations with CRM, marketing automation, and collaboration platforms to support the full event lifecycle

Use cases for virtual event platforms

Organizations use virtual event platforms to host large-scale conferences, summits, or expos that reach global audiences without geographical limitations. They are also commonly adopted by associations to support member meetings and networking opportunities, by employers to organize career fairs and recruitment events, and by companies to run customer enablement or partner training programs. These platforms are particularly valuable for delivering branded and immersive digital experiences that need networking, content sharing, and sponsor visibility.

How virtual event platforms differ from other solutions

Virtual event platforms differ from event management platforms, which are primarily focused on in-person logistics such as venue booking, catering, and on-site check-ins. While event management tools excel in physical event operations, virtual event platforms specialize in digital-first experiences that replicate the interactivity and networking found at in-person events. They are also distinct from webinar software, which is usually limited to single-session presentations. Virtual event platforms extend beyond this by supporting multi-track agendas, exhibitor booths, and advanced networking. Similarly, unlike video conferencing tools that are built for smaller meetings and collaboration, virtual event platforms are designed for large-scale, branded environments that deliver immersive and scalable event experiences.

Market outlook

The global virtual events market is expected to expand significantly, driven by hybrid event adoption and cost efficiencies of digital formats. Many event organizers now include a virtual or hybrid component in their long-term strategies, highlighting the staying power of these solutions.

To qualify for inclusion in the Virtual Event Platforms category, a product must:

• Allow event organizers to host live or on-demand video content through built-in webcasting capabilities or integrations
• Provide attendee engagement features such as Q&A, polls, group chat, and one-to-one networking
• Include event registration and payment processing, or integrate with event registration tools
• Support each stage of the event lifecycle, from registration and marketing to post-event analytics and feedback
• Scale according to the quantity, size, type, and complexity of online events