Nonprofits Lead the Way in AI-Powered Communication 🚀

Nonprofits Are Outpacing the Private Sector in AI Adoption to Enhance Engagement and Drive Impact

September 22, 2024

Welcome back to Nonprofit Digest, your source of nonprofit inspiration and resources!

In this second edition, we're continuing to explore the world of micro-grants, cutting-edge tools, and game-changing news that could transform your nonprofit's impact. Whether you're a seasoned nonprofit leader or just starting your journey, we've curated content to help you navigate the ever-evolving nonprofit landscape.

Ready to supercharge your cause? Let's explore what's new and exciting in the world of social impact! ðŸ‘‡

Handpicked Micro-Grants for September ðŸ’¸
Looking for some fresh funding? Here are two great micro-grants that can help you fuel your next project:

Patagonia Retail Grants
Focus: Supports grassroots environmental nonprofits working on campaigns to protect nature and address environmental crises.

Amount: Grants of up to $15,000 are available.

Deadline: Varies (applications accepted via local Patagonia stores).

Pro Tip: Make sure your project is highly focused on action and community engagement.

Apply here: Patagonia Retail Grants

Ben & Jerry’s Foundation Grassroots Organizing Grants
Focus: Supports grassroots organizations working on social and environmental justice, with a focus on community-led solutions addressing systemic issues.

Amount: Up to $30,000

Deadline: Pre-application accepted year-round

Pro Tip: Highlight how your project creates lasting community-driven change and addresses systemic injustice.

Apply here: Ben & Jerry’s Grants

Game-Changing Tools for Nonprofits ðŸš€

Having the right tools can make all the difference. Check out these solutions to help streamline your nonprofit’s workflow:

Beehiiv – Build and Grow Your Newsletter

What is it?: A user-friendly platform to create and grow your nonprofit’s newsletter. It’s perfect for keeping supporters engaged and informed.

Why you should care: Building a loyal base of supporters starts with great communication.

Pro Tip: Use this exclusive link for a 20% discount on your Beehiiv subscription!

Sign up here: Subscribe to Nonprofit Digest

Canva for Nonprofits

What is it?: A free design tool that lets nonprofits create stunning visuals for social media, presentations, and more.

Why you should care: Visually engaging content boosts donor engagement and helps spread your message effectively.

Pro Tip: Make the most of Canva’s branding tools to keep your nonprofit’s look consistent across all platforms.

Get started here: Canva for Nonprofits

News You Can’t Miss: New Rules, Tools, and What’s Next for Nonprofits 📰

Stay informed with the latest developments affecting nonprofits. Here are some key stories to know:

Unlock Funding: How AmeriCorps Grants Can Transform Your Nonprofit

AmeriCorps is offering significant funding to nonprofits across the U.S. addressing critical needs like education, public health, and disaster services. These grants are designed to help organizations build capacity, engage volunteers, and create lasting community-driven solutions.

What does this mean for small nonprofits?

Even small nonprofits can take advantage of these grants to expand their programs, mobilize volunteers, and amplify their community impact. These funds could be a game-changer for organizations looking to launch new initiatives or scale their existing efforts.

Key takeaway: Focus on projects that have measurable, long-term community impact. Building strong volunteer engagement is essential.

Learn more: AmeriCorps Grants

Nonprofits’ Use Of AI Exceeds For-Profit Implementation

AI is rapidly transforming nonprofit operations by making things run more smoothly and helping organizations do more with less. Nonprofits are now leading the way in using AI tools for communication, with 58% using AI-powered platforms, compared to 47% of businesses. According to Twilio's 2024 State of Nonprofit Digital Engagement report, 90% of nonprofits are already using AI for tasks like marketing and community outreach, especially in healthcare and education. AI tools such as customer analytics, CRM platforms, and survey tools are helping nonprofits save time, communicate better with donors, and understand the needs of their communities. While some concerns about privacy and bias remain, AI is proving to be a powerful way for nonprofits to stretch limited resources further.

What does this mean for small nonprofits?

Nonprofits can use AI to improve how they work and how they connect with supporters. Even with fewer resources, AI tools help nonprofits personalize their outreach and grow their impact. This makes it easier for small organizations to manage their operations and communicate more effectively.

Key takeaway: Nonprofits can start using tools like Salesforce Nonprofit Cloud for managing donor relationships, HubSpot for automating communications, and SurveyMonkey to gather feedback and insights. These AI-powered tools simplify tasks, save time, and help nonprofits focus on their missions while addressing concerns around privacy and bias by being mindful of how they use data.

Read more: Twilio’s 2024 State of Nonprofit Digital Engagement Report

That’s all for this edition of Nonprofit Digest. We hope these grants, tools, and news updates inspire you to take your nonprofit to the next level. With 60,000 nonprofit leaders like you in our community, you're never alone on this journey. Join the conversation and connect with others who share your mission.

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