How Do Online Sweepstakes Work?
A sweepstake is a game of chance where users can win a prize without paying or making a purchase. To enter, participants typically complete a simple task like submitting their email, following a brand, or referring a friend. Unlike contests, winners are chosen randomly — not based on skill.
Brands use sweepstakes to grow their email list, build awareness, and reward their community. Because it's a chance-based promotion, you must clearly state your rules and avoid any pay-to-play mechanics to stay compliant with regulations.
Tools like Gleam make this easy. You can run a sweepstake with verified entries and random winner selection, helping you grow your audience while remaining legally compliant.
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What Happens After You Enter an Online Sweepstakes?
After entering a sweepstake, you may receive confirmation, follow-up emails, and eventually a winner announcement. Click to find out how entries are processed and what to expect after you enter.