In a nutshell: EDivvy allows a group of people to go in on a gift together for a friend or loved one.

Cool factor: Instead of passing the hat around the office or among your friends, you can just select a gift for a recipient at www.eDivvy.com (retail partners include Amazon, Apple and Target) and then send invitations to friends as if it were an Evite. People can decide how much to contribute and can pay by credit card.

If the group hits the target amount, the gift is sent to the recipient with an e-card from the group. If you fall short, the recipient can receive a gift card for the amount raised.

Note: EDivvy can also work for nonprofits that want to raise money for a cause.

Source: San Francisco Chronicle