On our recent trends webinar, I began by acknowledging the weight many of us are carrying right now.
There’s a lot happening in the world—economic uncertainty, policy changes, funding cuts, and the general sense that the ground keeps shifting under our feet. It can feel strange to talk about “trends” when so much feels heavy and unsettled.
And yet, this is exactly why the work you do matters.
Fundraising doesn’t stop because things are uncertain. In fact, moments like these often reveal what really works, what doesn’t, and where we need to refocus. The trends below don’t ascribe to be quick fixes, but rather, aim to help you do your work more effectively tomorrow, next month, and throughout the year.
Most importantly, none of these trends replace the fundamentals. Building trust. Developing real relationships. Staying disciplined. Those things never change.
With that foundation in mind, here are the key non-profit fundraising trends every fundraiser needs to understand right now.
Trend #1: Donor Behavior Is Being Shaped by Uncertainty—and Generosity Is Rising
In 2026, donors are responding to uncertainty with increased generosity. With economic concerns, political instability, and funding disruptions, many donors are feeling a need to give more, often at levels well above their past behavior.
This generosity is encouraging, but it comes with risk. Much of what we’re seeing resembles disaster giving: gifts driven by urgency and emotion rather than long-term commitment. Historically, donors who give this way are harder to retain if organizations don’t respond thoughtfully.
A larger gift does not automatically mean a donor wants deeper engagement. In normal times, only about one in three donors want a true relationship. In uncertain times, that number can drop even further.
That means stewardship and impact reporting matter more than ever. Show donors quickly and clearly how their gift made a difference. At the same time, take an alternative qualification approach. Not every donor who gives more belongs in a portfolio. Your job is to identify those who want a long-term partnership and focus your energy there.
When it comes down to it, retention is about investing in the donors who truly want to walk with your mission.
Trend #2: Giving Vehicles Matter More Than Ever, but Many Organizations Are Behind
Giving vehicles are playing a larger role in donor decision-making, and many organizations are still struggling to keep up.
Donor-advised funds are a prime example. As of the end of 2024, more than $326 billion sat in DAF accounts, representing nearly 23 percent of all individual giving. Yet many non-profits still treat DAFs as an administrative issue instead of a relational opportunity.
Knowing how a donor prefers to give is part of knowing your donor. DAF conversations should be philanthropic, not transactional. Ask donors how they give. Make sure your systems and website support those preferences clearly and easily.
Beyond DAFs, gifts of assets are becoming more common: stock, IRA distributions, real estate, and blended gifts. These opportunities open the door to transformational giving, but only if fundraisers are willing to initiate thoughtful conversations.
Many donors are reassessing their financial and legacy plans. Organizations that understand asset-based and planned giving are better positioned for long-term stability. And these conversations should start early, not just at year-end.
Trend #3: AI Is Finding Its Proper Place as a Tool, Not a Strategy
AI is here to stay, but in 2026 the healthiest organizations are clearer about its role.
AI is not a fundraiser. It can’t build trust or deepen relationships. What it can do is reduce administrative burden. Used well, AI can help with summarizing notes, drafting internal documents, and organizing information, especially when integrated directly into your CRM.
There are real concerns to manage, including data privacy, accuracy, and environmental impact. Every organization should have a clear AI policy, because these tools are already being used whether leadership intends it or not.
Most importantly, AI should create more space for what matters most. As fundraising becomes more digital, donors are craving authenticity and human connection. Technology should be supporting your relationships instead of replacing them.
Trends Change, Fundamentals Don’t
Trends can shape how we think about our work, but they always take a back seat to fundamentals like discipline, focus, relationship-building, and trust. These don’t change year to year.
And if you’re feeling tired, discouraged, or behind, hear this clearly: you are not failing. You are doing some of the most important work in the world. It’s OK to slow down, be thoughtful, and focus on what you can control.
If you do nothing else in 2026 but commit to building deeper donor relationships, I’m confident you’ll see stronger partnerships and healthier revenue over time.
In the meantime, we’re here to walk alongside you.