What Not-for-Profits Need to Know About Fundraising
- Collins Hume
- 12 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Fundraising is evolving fast and not-for-profits that adapt will be the ones that strengthen revenue, deepen supporter trust and secure long-term sustainability.
Drawing on expert insights from the Institute of Community Directors Australia (ICDA) and journalist Matthew Schulz, current fundraising trends point clearly to one thing: lasting relationships outperform one-off wins.
Discover the key fundraising trends set to shape 2025 — from ethical AI and legacy giving to stronger donor relationships and board-led engagement — and learn how your organisation can use them to build sustainable, long-term support. Here’s what every NFP should be paying attention to in 2026.
1. Move beyond “low-overheads” and advocate for “pay what it takes”
The “starvation cycle” — forcing charities to do more with less — is no longer sustainable. Sector leaders continue to push for “pay what it takes” funding so NFPs can properly resource impact.
Tip: Educate funders on true program costs and share real examples of the infrastructure needed to deliver outcomes.
2. Use AI responsibly with human oversight
AI can streamline donor communications, segment supporters and improve fundraising efficiency. But fundraisers must have clear policies, governance and transparency.
Tip: Develop an AI-use framework aligned with your organisation’s values, so supporters trust how their data and stories are handled.
3. Gifts in wills remain one of the biggest growth areas
Australia is entering a period of significant intergenerational wealth transfer with an estimated $2.6 trillion by 2040. Gifts in wills programs are set to become one of the most important revenue drivers for charities of all sizes.
Tip: Keep bequests visible year-round and proactively educate supporters about legacy giving.
4. Relationships matter more than grant volume
According to Equitable Philanthropy CEO Catherine Brooks, scattershot grant applications are no longer effective. Funders want alignment, transparency and deep partnership.
Tip: Invest in year-round relationship cultivation: regular updates, strategic conversations and authentic invitations to see impact first-hand.
5. CEOs and Boards must lead fundraising efforts
Boards and Executive Teams play a critical role in securing major gifts, stewarding relationships and building credibility with funders.
Tip: Set clear expectations: KPIs for CEO-level funder meetings, donor stewardship plans and annual board engagement goals.
6. Regular giving and committed memberships build resilience
GiveNow’s Cathy Truong notes that while one-off donations fluctuate, monthly donors remain engaged for around two years, providing predictable cashflow. Membership models also create stronger emotional connection and long-term advocacy.
Tip: Prioritise donor retention over reach. Encourage monthly donations, share impact frequently and make sign-ups seamless.
What this means for your NFP organisation
2026 is all about sustainable funding, strong governance, ethical technology use and deep supporter relationships.
Whether your organisation provides community services, advocacy, education, wellbeing programs or local support, these trends offer a clear opportunity to strengthen your own impact story.
By adopting best-practice fundraising principles and communicating value consistently, NFPs of all sizes can thrive in an increasingly competitive environment.
Ready to strengthen your NFP's fundraising strategy?
Get in touch with our team to explore how we can help you build sustainable revenue, deepen supporter relationships and amplify your organisation’s impact.
Read full article: “What not-for-profits need to know about fundraising in 2025” by Matthew Schulz, Institute of Community Directors Australia (ICDA), 18 Feb 2025.
Comments