Fundraising Trends for 2025: AI, Ethical Storytelling & Burnout Solutions

FundraisingOperationsGovernanceCultureEthics
Written By Maria

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In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria and Caitlin dive into the biggest fundraising trends shaping the nonprofit sector this year. From the rise of Community-Centric Fundraising and AI-driven tools to the ongoing burnout crisis, they break down what’s ahead and how nonprofits can prepare. They explore how ethical storytelling is becoming a must, why fractional fundraising is on the rise, and how organizations can build resilience in an ever-changing landscape. 

Fundraising Trends in 2025 — The Highlights: 

  • The rise of Community-Centric Fundraising  

  • AI and automation in fundraising 

  • Ethical storytelling & the shift away from exploitation 

  • Burnout & the shift to fractional fundraising 

  • Creative ways to show gratitude to donors 

Actionable Tips for Nonprofits: 

➜ Explore AI tools for efficiency: Start small by using AI for board meeting minutes or email drafts. 

➜ Shift to community-centric fundraising: Move beyond traditional donor-centric models to prioritize impact. 

➜ Audit your storytelling practices: Ensure your messaging centers dignity, autonomy, and ethical representation. 

➜ Address burnout before it’s too late: Take proactive steps to support nonprofit teams and explore fractional fundraising models. 

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Watch this episode on Youtube.

Coming Next Week on the Small Nonprofit Podcast: 

Join us next week as we chat with Sheela Mahajan about transforming the way nonprofits think. We’ll explore how to move beyond outdated mindsets, make more strategic decisions, and tailor solutions to your community for greater impact. Don’t miss this game-changing conversation! 🚀 

Maria

Maria leads the Further Together team. Maria came to Canada as a refugee at an early age. After being assisted by many charities, Maria devoted herself to working in non-profit.

Maria has over a decade of fundraising experience. She is a sought-after speaker on issues related to innovative stewardship, building relationships, and Community-Centric Fundraising. She has spoken at AFP ICON and Congress, for Imagine Canada, APRA, Xlerate, MNA, and more. She has been published nationally, and was a finalist for the national 2022 Charity Village Best Individual Fundraiser Award. Maria also hosts The Small Nonprofit podcast and sits on the Board of Living Wage Canada.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/
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