2025 Predictions for the Nonprofit Sector

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👋🏾 Hey! I’m Sid and this is The Philanthropy Futurist, a weekly advice column preparing you for the future of the nonprofit sector. Each Friday, I tackle reader questions about measuring impact, driving growth, and managing your nonprofit.

This Week’s Newsletter at a glance:

• 2025 Predictions for the Nonprofit Sector

• Philanthropy News From This Week

• Sid’s Book Recommendation

2025 Predictions for the Nonprofit Sector

This is my first newsletter release. In the coming weeks and months, I plan to talk about everything you can think of and so much more— like AI, community building, fundraising, program operations, cause-market-fit, productivity hacks, impact intelligence, and this list goes on.

With a name like The Philanthropy Futurist, it’s only fitting that my first newsletter release kicks off with my 2025 predictions for the nonprofit sector.

Increased use of Artificial Intelligence

Many Nonprofits have started using artificial intelligence, but I believe the majority— especially larger organizations— have yet to begin. And for those already using AI, most aren’t tapping into its full potential.

AI will give organizations a powerful advantage. In a sector where teams are constantly expected to do more with less, AI can now make that possible! With the right approach, AI will help teams multiply impact tenfold. It will help teams save time, reduce costs, and dramatically increase efficiency— among other things.

I’m currently building a comprehensive directory of AI tools for Nonprofits and plan to share it in the coming months. Stay tuned!

Content, Content, Content

Content is not just about milestone updates, it’s about taking donors on the journey with you. It’s time to stop passively communicating with your donors. The future requires Nonprofits to not only talk about the good you do, but to show us!

Create consistent content that tells your story— shares behind the scenes— and actually shows people the impact you are making.

Transparency is the only way to build trust.

Higher focus on Community Building

Community will be essential in 2025— especially with the current uncertainty around federal funding. If content is King, then community is Queen.

While creating content is essential (King), the real power lies in turning that content into a self-sustaining community that champions your cause, fundraises without you asking, and donates their own time & money on a regular basis (THE QUEEN).

It’s time for Nonprofit organizations to take full accountability of their impact. Own your mission, own your future.

Nonprofits will collaborate with Creators

Creators are reshaping the next era of philanthropy. I believe in 2025, Nonprofits will find ways to foster relationships with local creators that are aligned with their cause. This will become a great formula for long-term impact.

Creators are democratizing what philanthropy looks like. Unlike traditional philanthropy, Creators invite their audiences to participate in the journey. Whether it’s crowdfunding campaigns, donation drives, or simply spreading awareness— creators empower their communities to take action alongside them.

If for-profit companies can collaborate with Creators, why can’t Nonprofits do the same!

Have questions you want answered? Submit questions using this form and I’ll work hard to get you the answers by way of this newsletter.

Philanthropy News From This Week

• NFL Foundation gives $3.5M to local nonprofits amid Super Bowl

• United States Administration puts a pause on NGO funding

• Kai and Speed’s foundations receive a major donation

• Lyda Hill Philanthropies partners with Boston Museum of Science

Sid’s Book Recommendation

Each week, I recommend a book or film that has impacted my life in a positive way. My recommendation this week is:

UnCharitable by Dan Pallotta

This book talks about the realities of philanthropy and introduces a RADICAL new way of viewing the nonprofit industry. It's one of my favorites! Learn more.

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