Running contests and sweepstakes can help you expand your brand and build strong client relations. But not everybody knows the difference between contests, sweepstakes (and lotteries), so below, we’ll look closer to help you determine which one is the best for your company.

Sweepstakes vs. Contest

The biggest difference between sweepstakes and contests is entry and winner determination. A sweepstakes is a game of chance where everyone has an equal opportunity to win, while a contest is a game of skill with judges who determine a winner based on the results.

For example, most sweepstakes involve a random drawing in which prizes go to whichever name the sweepstakes host draws at random. In contrast, most contests center around things with gradable skills on user-generated content, like an essay, drawing or photography.

Sweepstakes vs. Lottery

Sweepstakes and lotteries are both entirely luck-based and award a product or services to winners based on a drawing. The most significant difference between them is that sweepstakes are legal for brands to run directly; lotteries are illegal in the US unless instituted at the state level. While sweepstakes must always include a free method of entry, lotteries can require entrants to purchase a ticket for the chance to win.

Most states have made private lotteries illegal, with the exception of fundraisers (i.e. raffles), which may be approved in some jurisdictions. However, sweepstakes are legal across the United States, and many businesses use them to drive in new clients and build customer relationships.

Learn More About Sweepstakes and Contests with The National Sweepstakes Company

Our team at the National Sweepstakes Company helps businesses like yours put together successful sweepstakes and contests so that you can reach new clients and bring your brand to new heights.

Call our team today at (888) 744-3217 for more details on sweepstakes vs. contests.

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