Navigating the Storm: Fundraising Creatively in a Challenging Non-Profit Landscape

You are facing a big challenge.

Headlines tell the story: government funding is drying up, more than 14,000 non-profit jobs have vanished, and organizations everywhere are struggling to attract and retain talent. If you’re reading this, you’re probably feeling the pressure. The gravity of our work has never been more obvious—and the needs in our world have never been greater.

So how do you move forward? How do you, as fundraisers and non-profit leaders, rise to meet these times, even as we lose valued colleagues and face the threat of losing decades of institutional knowledge?

First, let’s be real. This is hard. We’re not just losing funding; we’re losing people—the mentors, the guides, the partners who’ve shaped your organizations for years. The worry is real: How will you continue to serve when resources are shrinking and demand is soaring?

While it’s important to feel the weight of this moment, it’s just as important to remember: Non-profits have always been built on resilience and creativity. We are the sector that sees a need and finds a way. This is our DNA.

This is a time to reimagine what’s possible. Here are a few ways you can navigate these times with creativity and determination:

1. Invest in Your People

With talent scarce and experience walking out the door, the people who remain are more valuable than ever. Double down on professional development even if budgets are tight. Encourage mentorship, peer learning, and cross-training. Capture institutional knowledge by having senior staff document processes and stories. When you invest in your people, you build a culture of growth and resilience.

2. Focus on Relationships, Not Just Transactions

Government funding may be waning, but individuals and local businesses still care deeply about your mission. Now is the time to double down on relationship-based fundraising. Ask! Share the urgent needs and tell the stories of impact. Invite them into the journey—not just as funders, but as partners in solving real issues. Empathy and authenticity cut through the noise.

3. Collaborate and Partner

No one organization can do it alone, especially now. Look for partnerships with other non-profits, businesses, or even local government agencies. Pool resources, share staff or office space, and collaborate on programs. Sometimes, creative alliances can unlock new funding streams or efficiencies that would be impossible if done in a vacuum.

4. Leverage Technology (Intelligently)

You don’t need every new platform—just smart use of what you have. Use simple tools to automate administrative tasks, freeing up time for relationship-building. Host virtual donor events or town halls to engage your community. Use data to segment your donors and personalize your outreach. The goal: amplify your impact with the resources you already have.

5. Stay Mission-Driven—And Communicate That Urgency

Don’t shy away from sharing the challenges you face. Your donors and stakeholders need to understand the stakes. Be transparent about funding gaps, job losses, and the increased demand for services. Invite your donors to help you meet these challenges. People want to help—they just need to know how!

Yes, we’re losing people—and with them, experience and wisdom that’s hard to replace. But we’re also gaining something: a renewed sense of purpose. The need is greater than ever. If you’re a fundraiser, you are not just raising money; you are helping to hold the fabric of your community together.

Let’s continue to lead with heart, find creative solutions, and invest in people. Together, we can weather this storm and emerge stronger.

You are not alone. We’re in this together.