FundraisingAI – Details, episodes & analysis

Today's episode delves into the evolving landscape of AI adoption within the nonprofit sector, revealing how AI is revolutionizing fundraising by turning data into actionable insights.  Nathan and Scott kick off today's conversation by discussing the growing presence of AI at industry conferences, such as APRA-PD 2024, where the conversation has shifted from theory to practical applications and success stories. They underscore the significance of AI in prospect development while highlighting a noticeable reduction in hesitancy towards predictive AI—though concerns about generative AI persist.  The duo also tackles barriers to AI adoption, such as fears of job replacement and skepticism about AI's accuracy. Through real-world examples, they illustrate how AI can streamline tasks like prospect research, freeing up valuable time for strategic initiatives.  Scott and Nathan emphasize the importance of starting with clear AI use cases sharing case studies that showcase the tangible benefits of AI in the sector. They also discuss the impact of tools like xAI and Grok AI, balancing the potential for innovation with the need for transparency and accountability in AI-generated content.  Practical tips abound in this episode, from creating content folders to training AI tools to developing style guides that ensure consistency. The conversation concludes with a call to action for nonprofits to adopt AI proactively and responsibly, setting the stage for transformative change in the sector.  EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [01:18] AI Adoption in the Nonprofit Sector  [04:48] Barriers to AI Adoption in Prospect Development   [09:12] Case Studies and Practical AI Applications   [14:19] AI Tools and Their Impact on Nonprofits   [22:28] Practical Tips for AI Adoption in Nonprofits   Connect with Nathan and Scott: LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans Website: fundraising.ai

In a landscape where AI revolutionizes nonprofit fundraising, this episode highlights its role as a game changer, blending advanced technology with the human touch! Meet Brittany Shaff, the Founder and CEO of Shaff Fundraising Group, a consultancy specializing in strategic philanthropy and engagement management. With twenty years of experience across nonprofit and corporate sectors, Brittany excels in fundraising, marketing, and analytics. Her firm partners with nonprofits, independent schools, higher education institutions, and healthcare organizations to provide personalized consulting that drives successful fundraising and engagement. During today's conversation, Brittany explores how AI, particularly generative and predictive models, transforms how nonprofits engage with donors, personalize content, and optimize their strategies. She discusses the balance between leveraging AI and maintaining the human touch in nonprofit communications, emphasizing that AI should enhance, not replace, organizations' core mission and vision. Brittany also addresses the importance of content marketing, differentiating it from brand and product marketing, and highlights how AI can be a powerful tool for creating impactful, personalized messaging at scale. She shares insights on the need for nonprofits to adapt and embrace AI tools while maintaining a genuine connection with their audience. Throughout the conversation, Brittany underscores that success in the nonprofit sector isn't about outdoing others but advancing your mission and achieving meaningful growth. She also reflects on her fascination with new AI platforms and tools, sharing how staying informed about technological advancements fuels her passion for innovation in the sector. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [04:50] AI as a Game Changer [08:06] The Future of Content Marketing and Nonprofit Engagement [16:19] Essential Steps for Leveraging AI in Nonprofit Engagement [21:20] Defining and Elevating Content Marketing with AI [23:21] Balancing AI with Humanity [24:42] Generative AI as the New Heartbeat of Engagement and Innovation [26:38] Collaboration Over Competition in Nonprofit AI Integration [28:00] Harnessing AI Tools TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Begin integrating AI tools in your nonprofit operations to stay competitive. If needed, consult with AI and marketing experts to maximize effectiveness. Evaluate current content to understand what resonates with your audience. Use AI to create personalized messaging at scale for greater impact. Ensure AI enhances but doesn't replace personal engagement. Optimize content for both search engines and AI-driven platforms. Regularly research emerging AI tools for potential benefits. Use AI for improved data analysis and understanding of donor behavior. Align AI strategies with your nonprofit's core mission and vision. Track the effectiveness of AI tools and adjust strategies based on results. Resources: Connect with Brittany: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brittany-n-shaff-bcre-cfre/ Website: shafffundraisinggroup.com/ Mentioned in the episode: The Evolution of Search: From SEO to Generative Engine Optimization for Nonprofits - A 10-Step Implementation Guide: shafffundraisinggroup.com/post/the-evolution-of-search-from-seo-to-generative-engine-optimization-for-nonprofits-a-10-step-imple

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how AI is reshaping fundraising practices and discover how your organization can lead the charge in creating a positive, lasting impact through innovative donor engagement strategies! Join Brian Gawor in today's episode as he explores the transformative impact of AI and ethical innovation in fundraising. As a seasoned expert in advancement and donor engagement, Brian dives deep into the evolving landscape where technology meets philanthropy, reshaping how organizations connect with donors in meaningful ways. Brian Gawor, CFRE, serves as the Consultant and Director of Business Development at Johnson, Grossnickle and Associates (JGA). With over 25 years of experience in higher education donor engagement and development, Brian is dedicated to helping nonprofits leverage data to enhance their fundraising efforts. At JGA, he uses his extensive background in data analytics and philanthropy to assist clients in growing their philanthropy through innovative data analytics tools and traditional consulting services. Throughout the episode, Brian sheds light on key insights gained from his extensive experience, highlighting the pivotal role of predictive analytics and psychographic profiling in understanding donor behavior. He discusses practical strategies for nonprofits to leverage AI as a tool for efficiency and as a catalyst for enhancing donor joy and engagement. Drawing parallels to major shifts in other industries driven by technology, Brian emphasizes the urgency for fundraisers to adapt and innovate. He challenges traditional metrics and approaches, advocating for a donor-centric mindset that bridges the gap between technological capabilities and human connection. Moreover, Brian shares exciting developments such as the upcoming Indy Summit, where industry leaders will gather to explore AI applications, ethical frameworks, and hands-on experiences with psychographic profiles. This event promises to equip fundraisers with actionable insights to navigate the future landscape of philanthropy with confidence and compassion. Highlights [01:28] Reflections on Humor and Heart in the Nonprofit World [05:22] Story of a Chicago Hippie Kid: From First-Generation College Graduate to Changing Paths [06:33] From Fundraising Frontlines to Donor Insights: A Journey Through Nonprofit Innovation [10:38] The Irreplaceable Value of Direct Donor Contact [12:20] Charitable Organizations in the Age of Innovation and Generosity [13:38] Embracing Innovation with a Gen X Edge [15:25] From Skepticism to Critical Engagement in the Digital Age [17:36] AI and Social Change with Optimism and Caution [19:04] Empowering Fundraising with AI: Predictive Insights, Psychographic Profiles, and Creative Generation [23:35] Adapting to Donor Dynamics: Innovating Fundraising in Higher Education and Beyond [26:40] Transforming Fundraising from Engagement to Precision Philanthropy [29:30] Trends and Transformations in Philanthropy with AI and Predictive Analytics [32:25] AI and Ethical Innovation Resources:  Connect with Brian: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brian-gawor-cfre/   Mentioned in the episode: Indy Summit: indy-summit-registration/ Connect with Nathan and Scott: LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/ LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans Website: fundraising.ai/

Join a conversation on shaping a future where AI serves the greater good while navigating the challenges it presents! During today's conversation, Nathan and Scott unpack the diverse range of perspectives surrounding AI's impact on society, particularly its role in addressing global challenges outlined in the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reflecting on their experiences at a recent conference, AI for Good Global Summit -2024. From insightful interviews with industry leaders to eye-opening sessions on digital well-being, Nathan and Scott candidly discuss the dichotomy of promise and perils inherent in AI advancement. They highlight key takeaways, such as the urgent need for responsible AI development and prioritizing humanity over utility. With a blend of humor and introspection, Nathan and Scott navigate complex topics, including the influence of technology on youth, ethical considerations in AI governance, and the role of corporate incentives in driving AI innovation. Drawing from personal anecdotes and expert insights, they offer valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of AI and its implications for society. Episode Highlights [00:55] Reflecting on the AI for Good Global Summit: Insights and Surprises [06:48] Unpacking the SDGs and the Role of AI: Challenges and Opportunities [12:24] The Promise and Perils of AI [15:25] Insights from the Interview of Nicholas Thompson, the CEO of the Atlantic, with Sam Altman, CEO of Open AI [21:09] The Impact of Technology on Youth [25:36] Balancing AI for Good with Corporate Incentives Resources:  Connect with Nathan and Scott: LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/ LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans Website: fundraising.ai/

Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest in AI technology and its impact on the fundraising sector and hear firsthand insights from one of the most significant AI conferences in the world! In this exciting episode of the Fundraising AI Podcast, Nathan Chappell and Scott Rosenkrans explore the latest AI breakthroughs and discuss the challenges and opportunities they present. Also, they share insights from their experiences at the summit, highlighting key technological advancements such as ElevenLabs's AI-generated music and the groundbreaking features of OpenAI's GPT-4.0, including its improved voice capabilities and continuous dialogue function. The discussion then shifts to Google's recent release of Gemini, a new version of their AI, which has already encountered significant issues with safety and accuracy. It serves as a segue into a broader conversation about the need for robust AI governance and standards. However, reflecting on their participation in the summit, Nathan and Scott express optimism and concern about the future of AI regulation. They also discuss the tension between the rapid pace of AI development and the need for effective governance. Furthermore, Nathan and Scott provide a candid look at the complexities of creating global standards for exponentially advancing technology and emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing these challenges during the discussion. Episode Highlights [02:27] AI's Musical Evolution [08:01] The Rise of AI Personal Assistants [15:50] Bridging the Gap Between Innovation and Responsibility [19:25] Governance in AI: Tension Between Scale and Safety [23:48] Reflections on AI Governance at AI for Good Global Summit Resources:  Connect with Nathan and Scott: LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/ LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans Website: fundraising.ai/

This conversation delves into the relationship between technology, community engagement, and philanthropy, illuminating pathways to enhance connectivity, empowerment, and efficacy within the nonprofit sector. Our guest today is Soraya Alexander, an esteemed figure renowned for her innovative approaches to fundraising and digital outreach within the nonprofit landscape.   Soraya serves as the COO of GoFundMe and President of its subsidiary, Classy. Under her leadership, GoFundMe empowers people to help each other through innovative technology, while Classy assists nonprofits in maximizing their fundraising efforts for more significant social and environmental impact. Together, these platforms facilitate the annual raising of billions of dollars. She is also a board member of Urban Surf 4 Kids, supporting foster and adoptive youth through surf therapy and mentorship.  Soraya shares her journey from aspiring to be Secretary of State to driving innovation at Classy, where she focuses on empowering nonprofits through cutting-edge technology and community-building strategies. She delves into the transformative power of community in the nonprofit sector, challenging the traditional notion of "community of supporters" and advocating for a more dynamic, interactive approach.   Moreover, we explore the generational shifts in giving, highlighting how younger donors seek to be active participants rather than passive supporters. Soraya discusses the need for nonprofits to adapt their campaign strategies and technological tools to meet the evolving expectations of these new cohorts of givers.  In a candid discussion about technology and AI, Soraya reveals Classy's thoughtful, principled approach to developing AI tools. She underscores the importance of transparency, security, and control, ensuring that innovation never comes at the expense of trust.  Episode Highlights [03:26] Soraya's Journey  [07:04] Balancing Innovation and Impact with Caution and Purpose  [09:26] How Classy and GoFundMe are Revolutionizing Fundraising  [13:48] Transforming Community: From Isolated Supporters to Connected Changemakers  [17:26] Adapting to Generational Shifts in Fundraising  [19:35] Prioritizing Trust: Principles and Patience in Launching AI Tools for Fundraising  Resources:  Connect with Soraya:  Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/sorayagalexander/  Website: classy.org/  Connect with Nathan and Scott: LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/ LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans Website: fundraising.ai/

Throughout today's discussion, Nathan and Scott provide valuable insights into how AI revolutionizes fundraisers, from discussing the latest reports from Microsoft and OpenAI to exploring the functionalities of ChatGPT, Perplexity, and other cutting-edge AI models. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the advantages of using different AI models such as ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Claude Opus, as well as the exciting new features of Adobe Firefly and DALL·E's image editing capabilities. They share their experiences with these tools and highlight their strengths and limitations, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of how AI can enhance their fundraising efforts. Nathan and Scott also touch on the importance of responsible AI usage and the need for organizations to adapt to the rapidly changing technological landscape. They discuss the implications of AI in recruitment, retention, and professional development, emphasizing the role of leaders in driving AI transformation within their organizations. Moreover, Nathan and Scott tease an upcoming "Fundraising in a Box Challenge," where they plan to showcase rapid-fire examples of AI applications tailored to different job functions in fundraising and nonprofit work. Episode Highlights [03:26] AI Revolution: From Generosity Crisis to Data-Driven Advancement [10:10] AI in the Workplace: Microsoft's 2024 Work Trend Index Report and OpenAI's Model Spec [17:49] Apple's Next Move [19:55] Personalizing Interactions with ChatGPT [22:19] From ChatGPT to Adobe Firefly and DALL·E's New Editing Features Connect with Nathan and Scott: LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/ LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans Website: fundraising.ai/   Mentioned in the episode: MSFT 2024 Work Trend Index Report  OpenAI's model spec GPT-4.5/GPT-5 speculation

Join Nick Lynch, co-founder and CEO of Collidescope.io, in this compelling podcast episode as he delves into the power of storytelling, empathy, and partnership in driving social impact.   Nick is a dynamic innovator, leveraging his expertise in digital marketing to empower brands to navigate the online landscape. Beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits, Nick's journey as a cancer survivor and Make-A-Wish recipient fuels his dedication to supporting nonprofit causes. Recognizing the digital pivot compelled by the pandemic, Nick's strategic mindset spurred him to develop Collidescope.io.   Drawing from his extensive experience in the nonprofit sector and tech industry, Nick shares invaluable insights on how organizations can leverage these pillars to amplify their mission and connect with their audience. From social media and influencer marketing to the transformative potential of AI and data analytics, Nick offers practical advice and real-world examples that resonate with seasoned professionals and newcomers alike. He discusses the genesis of his book, which serves as a roadmap for organizations seeking to harness the power of narrative to drive change.  Throughout the conversation, Nick emphasizes the importance of meeting clients where they are and tailoring strategies to their unique needs and goals. He shares personal anecdotes and favorite case studies, including a remarkable partnership with the American Lung Association, showcasing the tangible results of a strategic approach grounded in empathy and collaboration.    Episode Highlights [02:03] Journey Through Tech, Marketing, and Social Impact  [06:55] Data Dilemmas in Nonprofit and For-Profit Landscapes  [09:02] Becoming a B Corp Amid Uncertainty  [11:13] The Evolution of Collidescope.io  [13:42] Beyond Models: Human Element in AI Transformation  [15:50] Driving Impact Through Data: A Case Study with the American Lung Association  [22:25] Building Social Impact through Partnerships and Beliefs  [25:31] Storytelling for Nonprofit Success  [28:06] Nick's Book: Impact Redefined 

From discussing the practical applications of AI tools such as Zapier and ChatGPT in streamlining tasks to exploring the potential of generative AI in prospect research and development, today's episode provides invaluable insights into how nonprofits can leverage AI to enhance their efficiency and effectiveness!  The conversation covers various topics, including integrating Zapier with Google Tasks for task management, using Siri Shortcuts to automate everyday tasks, and the power of generative AI in writing emails, drafting memos and even creating auction descriptions for fundraising events. Nathan and Scott also address common concerns surrounding AI, such as the fear of job displacement and the phenomenon of AI "hallucination," offering practical tips for mitigating these challenges. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the importance of embracing AI as a tool for positive change in the nonprofit sector, highlighting its potential to drive innovation, increase productivity, and alleviate burnout among nonprofit professionals. With their signature blend of expertise and humor, they further provide actionable advice for nonprofits looking to harness the full potential of AI in their operations.  [02:21] Streamlining Workflows with AI-Powered Automation Tools  [07:47] Automating tasks with Zapier and Google Tasks.  [11:16] From Siri Shortcuts to Personalized AI Writing  [16:17] AI-Powered Auction Descriptions and Multimodal Interaction  [19:40] Leveraging AI for Prospect Research and Development  [23:16] Understanding Misattributions and Anti-AI Sentiment  [26:20] Addressing Resistance and Finding Success with AI  Connect with Nathan and Scott: LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans Website: fundraising.ai

From deciphering the mysteries of binary code to grappling with the implications of fake news controversies, today's episode offers engaging anecdotes and real-world examples to illuminate the multifaceted nature of AI's impact on society. With actionable insights and a compelling call to action, Nathan and Scott inspire you to navigate the complexities of AI with caution and conscientiousness, ensuring that fundraising endeavors embrace innovation while upholding ethical principles.   The conversation begins with a deep dive into Microsoft's groundbreaking announcement of a new deep fake tool, raising questions about the ethical considerations and societal implications of such technology. Nathan and Scott unpack the potential risks and benefits of deep fake technology, highlighting Microsoft's cautious approach and the broader impact on digital authenticity.  From there, the discussion evolves to examine Meta's latest multimodal model, Meta Llama 3, boasting an impressive 140 billion parameters and promising unparalleled text and visual processing performance. The hosts analyze the implications of Meta's open-source strategy and the complexities of trust in tech giants amidst growing skepticism from the public.  Delving into the nuances of AI ethics, Nathan and Scott explore the intricacies of copyright infringement and data usage, drawing attention to recent controversies involving Google's legal dispute with OpenAI over data extraction from YouTube. They reflect on the evolving definitions of copyright protection and the challenges of navigating the ethical landscape of AI-driven innovation. Also, throughout the episode, Nathan and Scott draw from their extensive experience in the fundraising sector to underscore the transformative potential of AI for nonprofit organizations. They emphasize the importance of responsible AI adoption, urging listeners to approach technological innovation with mindfulness and ethical awareness.  Episode Highlights [01:22] Deep Fake Dilemma  [04:16] Tech Titans and Ethical Quagmires  [10:24] Trust in Tech: Nonprofit AI Adoption Amidst Growing Skepticism  [15:23] Copyright Conundrum and Complexities in AI Data Usage  [17:01] Binary Code and Language Models  [23:20] Leveraging Transformation Responsibly for Success  [2454] Previewing Future Episodes  Connect with Nathan and Scott: LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans Website: fundraising.ai