Federal grants have long been a lifeline for nonprofits, supporting vital programs in healthcare, education, social services, and the arts. But with shifting political priorities, administrative changes, and budget cuts, nonprofits can no longer rely solely on government funding.

The nonprofit world is evolving, but not all trends are positive. Declining donors and volunteer rates signal a crisis for organizations that depend on community support to achieve their missions. While new forms of altruism are emerging, traditional volunteering and charitable giving remain essential for building strong communities and lasting relationships.

Did you know that over 26% of Americans live with a disability? Yet, many nonprofits unintentionally exclude this significant audience by overlooking digital accessibility. In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, your digital presence is a lifeline to connect with donors, volunteers, and clients. But is your nonprofit truly inclusive?

In 2025, nonprofit fundraising continues to evolve, driven by both challenges and innovative strategies that promise to reshape the way organizations operate and engage with donors. Drawing on the latest data and studies, here are the top 10 trends and strategic recommendations that can help nonprofits navigate the evolving landscape of philanthropy.

Email remains one of the most effective fundraising channels for nonprofits, offering a direct line to supporters. According to the 2023 Nonprofit Tech for Good Report, 68% of nonprofits actively use email marketing, demonstrating its importance. This is especially true given that donors feel 71% more engaged with nonprofits when they receive personalized communications according to Abila.

With Giving Tuesday just around the corner, nonprofits across the country are gearing up for one of the most critical fundraising days of the year. With up to 4% of annual fundraising happening in just one day, it’s essential to have the right tools in place. Are you ready to make the most of it? Julep is here to help you succeed!

As the year draws to a close, nonprofits everywhere prepare for what is arguably the most critical time for fundraising—year-end giving season. The holiday spirit, combined with the urgency of tax deadlines, means that donors are often more inclined to give during this period. In fact, up to one-third of annual donations are made in December, with a significant portion coming in the final days of the year. If your nonprofit isn’t fully maximizing this opportunity, you could be leaving essential revenue on the table, limiting your organization's impact and mission advancement.

While spreadsheets may feel familiar and cost-effective, they can quickly become inefficient, prone to errors, challenging to scale as your organization grows, and high-risk if a staff member leaves or hard drive dies. Transitioning from spreadsheets to a CRM, like Julep, can transform your nonprofit’s operations, improving donor relationships, data management, and decision-making.

In the bustling world of nonprofit fundraising, where the race to attract new donors is often highlighted by dazzling social media campaigns and large-scale events, the significance of retaining existing donors can sometimes be overshadowed. The journey doesn't end with a donation. In fact, that's where it truly begins. At its heart, donor retention is about recognizing that donors are not mere transactional figures but individuals craving genuine interaction.

In today’s world, corporate philanthropy has become a cornerstone of responsible business practices, offering a powerful avenue for companies to positively impact society while enhancing their brand and workplace culture. It’s an integral part of modern business strategies, blending corporate goals with social responsibility.

Joining a nonprofit board isn't just about filling a seat—it's about driving the organization toward its mission and making a tangible impact in the community. While passion for the cause often brings individuals to the boardroom, effective board membership requires a commitment to learning, oversight, and strategic decision-making.

Recurring donations are essential to successful fundraising plans. Whether monthly, weekly, or every other week, these contributions offer flexible options for donors to consistently contribute to your organization. But the benefits extend beyond donor convenience.

According to a recent study, 80% of nonprofits use some type of AI tools to automate online fundraising, and 15% use AI for donor prospecting. However, where do you start? The number of tools available is overwhelming, especially since many are free or low-cost.