Episode Details

Back to Episodes

179: [Part 2] The 2026 Fundraising Trends Every Nonprofit Leader Should Know

Season 1 Episode 179 Published 8 months, 1 week ago
Description

In Part 2 of my 2026 Fundraising Trends series, we’re going deeper into the tools, tech, and leadership shifts that will define nonprofit growth this year. 

If Part 1 was about strategy and visibility, this episode is about the systems and decision-making that actually make those strategies possible. I discuss upgrading outdated CRMs and donation tools, the rise of AI-assisted fundraising, the acceleration of donor-advised fund (DAF) giving, why leaders must color outside the lines to stay relevant, and how decision speed has become a key competitive advantage for nonprofits. I close with a look at the tech-driven donor experience, a world where frictionless giving, mobile-first design, SMS, and fast follow-up matter more than ever. If you’re committed to modernizing your fundraising and leading boldly in 2026, these two-part episodes are your roadmap.

Topics:

  • Why Q1 is the perfect time to evaluate and upgrade CRMs, donation tools, and ESPs
  • How outdated tech silently kills conversion, retention, and reporting
  • The rise of AI-assisted fundraising as a normal accelerator
  • How to use AI without losing your voice, authenticity, or accuracy
  • Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) are becoming a mainstream giving vehicle
  • Why nonprofits must “color outside the lines” and break legacy rules
  • The need to drop slow, outdated tactics (raffles, auctions, galas) for modern, efficient ones
  • Decision speed is a leadership advantage that drives revenue
  • Perfectionism and committees as momentum killers in 2026
  • The shift toward frictionless giving: SMS, mobile-first donations, automations, and welcome flows


For a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.

Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits like yours. Book your demo here. Read The 2026 Giving Signals Report here. 

Apply here: splendidcourses.com/apply

Resources:

Listen Now

Love PodBriefly?

If you like Podbriefly.com, please consider donating to support the ongoing development.

Support Us