The Digital Nonprofit is an initiative of TechSoup Connect Canada.
Calling for Connection: How Telemarketing Sparked $1.4M in Legacy Gifts
At our May 21 TechSoup Connect Canada event, Personal Connection at Scale: Using Telemarketing to Secure Donations, we explored how the David Suzuki Foundation used telemarketing—not to ask for money, but to spark meaningful conversations about legacy giving.
In this informal but insight-packed session, Sand Dollar Consulting’s Siobhan Aspinall, CFRE and Morgan Steacy, Senior Account Manager at Stratcom, shared how they used donor phone calls to identify $1.4 million in future revenue through gifts in wills.
Here’s what we learned—and how you can put it into practice.
1. Know the Opportunity: $1 Trillion Is About to Change Hands
An estimated $1 trillion is being transferred from Canada’s Baby Boomer generation to the next. Planned giving is your opportunity to capture a small (but transformational) piece of that shift.
Key Stat:
Only 5% of Canadians have included a charity in their will.
Action Tip:
Make sure your website clearly states you accept legacy gifts—don’t make supporters guess. Even a simple sentence can start the conversation.
2. Stop Overthinking It: A Phone Call Is Enough
This campaign succeeded by making 1,000 friendly phone calls to long-time supporters. No ask, no pressure—just a thank you, a question or two about why they give, and a gentle introduction to the idea of planned giving.
Action Tip:
Use professional telemarketers trained in empathy and active listening. Scripts are great, but flexibility and humanity matter more.
3. Target the Right Donors (Not Just the Rich Ones)
Most confirmed legacy donors weren’t wealthy. They were loyal, long-time supporters—monthly donors, on-and-off givers, or past volunteers.
Key Stat:
The average charitable bequest in Canada is $30,000.
Action Tip:
Segment your donor list by loyalty and longevity—not just recent giving. Even lapsed donors might be quietly planning a gift in their will.
4. Frame It Right: Don’t Make Them Choose
One major reason people hesitate to make a planned gift? They believe it’s a choice between family and charity.
Action Tip:
Use messaging that emphasizes “loved ones first, then a gift to charity.” This removes unnecessary guilt and makes the decision easier.
5. Follow Up Like It Matters—Because It Does
Siobhan’s team received 620 follow-up comments and 48 confirmed legacy gifts—but only because they had a plan to respond.
Action Tip:
Tag legacy conversations in your CRM. Send a short thank-you email with your legal name, CRA number, and a link to your impact report. Stewardship doesn’t have to be fancy—it just needs to be consistent.
6. Use Telemarketing Beyond Planned Giving
Yes, telemarketing can secure legacy gifts—but it’s also great for:
- Welcoming new donors
- Retaining monthly supporters
- Re-engaging lapsed donors
- Gathering donor preferences
Action Tip:
Don’t think of the phone as old school. Think of it as a human-scale tool for deepening relationships at scale.
7. Legacy Donors Give More—In More Ways
Getting into someone’s will isn’t the end—it’s the beginning. These donors often increase their annual giving, tell friends about your work, and stick around for the long haul.
Action Tip:
Stay in touch with your legacy donors. Quarterly emails, personal thank-you calls, or a printed newsletter can keep them engaged and appreciated.
Watch the Replay
Want to hear how Siobhan and Morgan made it happen?
👉 Watch the full replay and steal their script, strategy, and stewardship ideas.
Connect With Our Presenters
We’re grateful to our presenters for sharing their time and insight. Be sure to connect and say thanks!
Brought to you by TechSoup Connect Canada and The Digital Nonprofit—a community helping nonprofits use tech for good.
7 Ways to Simplify Internal Processes at Your Nonprofit
Running a nonprofit often means juggling a dozen tasks with limited time and people power. That’s why we brought in David Pisarek, Chief Digital Aficionado at Wow Digital, to help us rethink our systems during our recent TechSoup Connect Canada event.
Whether you’re a solo operator or leading a growing team, this session is packed with practical strategies to cut through the chaos. Here are seven takeaways to help you streamline workflows and build better systems for your nonprofit—without needing a tech degree.
🎥 https://youtu.be/XAucfKlNldg
1. You need to treat your nonprofit like a business
Running on passion is great—but to scale impact, you also need solid systems. That means documenting processes, investing in tools, and tracking time just like a small business would. It’s not about being corporate; it’s about being sustainable.
2. Start with just one small fix
Instead of overhauling everything at once, pick one bottleneck (like event planning or donor thank-you emails) and streamline that process. Build a checklist. Create a reusable template. Small wins stack up fast.
3. Document your processes—it saves time and sanity
Even if it’s just a Google Doc, documenting how you do things helps onboard new people, avoid missed steps, and keep consistency. Bonus points if you try a tool like Komodo Decks to auto-generate step-by-step guides with video and screenshots.
4. Use project management tools to create clarity
Juggling sticky notes and inboxes? David recommends tools like:
- ClickUp – for task tracking, time logging, SOPs, and workflows (David’s top pick)
- Trello, Asana, or Monday.com – if you’re already using one, just use it more intentionally!
Pro tip: Pick one tool and build everything around it to reduce confusion.
5. Communicate better with Slack
Tools like Slack (free or discounted for nonprofits) reduce internal email clutter and help you create topic-specific channels like #events, #grants, or #celebrations. Use it to build culture, share wins, and reduce back-and-forth.
6. Automate the boring stuff with Zapier
If you’re copying and pasting contacts between systems, stop. Zapier connects thousands of apps and can automate tasks like:
- Adding new donors to your CRM
- Sending Slack alerts when someone fills out a form
- Triggering welcome emails or task creation
Zapier offers a 15% nonprofit discount, too.
7. Build better donor journeys with Mailchimp
David’s advice: don’t just send donation appeals—build a relationship. Use tools like:
- Mailchimp (free for small lists)
- Constant Contact
- ActiveCampaign
Set up an onboarding sequence with 3–7 emails to educate, inspire, and invite donors deeper into your work.
🤝 Connect with David
If you have questions, want help simplifying your systems, or just want to run an idea past David, he would love to chat. The best way to reach him is by booking a free, no-pressure strategy call here: wowdigital.com/consult or texting 1.416.708.8320 (cell).
Grab his free ebook, Three Simple Words to Boost Donations by 20%, based on psychology-backed principles: wowdigital.com/ebook
In addition, if you’re wondering how your website is doing, WOW Digital recently launched a self-assessment questionnaire. You can take it by going to wowdigital.com/self-assessment
Feel free to email David at david@wowdigital.com or text directly at 416.708.8320, whichever is easier for you!
Let’s build better systems together. 🚀
Brought to you by TechSoup Connect Canada and The Digital Nonprofit—a community helping nonprofits use tech for good.
What Every Nonprofit Board Member Should Know: Highlights from Becky Schueller’s Board Governance Workshop
Board service is one of the most meaningful ways to support a nonprofit—but it comes with responsibilities that many volunteers may not fully understand. On April 14, TechSoup Connect Canada hosted a deep dive into the Responsibilities of Individual Board Members, led by experienced nonprofit trainer Becky Schueller.
Becky brought three decades of experience as a trainer, coach, and executive director to the session, offering practical and accessible guidance for both new and seasoned board members. Whether you’re in a grassroots group or a national charity, here are ten key takeaways from the session to help you serve more confidently and effectively.
📺 Watch the video recording
📑 Download the slides
🧰 Board resources packet
1. Know Your Legal Duties: Care, Loyalty, and Obedience
Board members in both Canada and the U.S. share three fundamental legal responsibilities:
- Duty of Care: Show up, be prepared, and make informed decisions.
- Duty of Loyalty: Put the organization’s best interest first and disclose any potential conflicts.
- Duty of Obedience: Ensure the organization follows its mission and complies with legal requirements.
2. You Can’t Delegate Responsibility
Each board member is individually responsible for understanding the issues at hand. Even if you’re not a financial expert, you can’t just “go with the flow.” Review your meeting materials, ask questions, and ensure you’re making independent, informed decisions.
3. Read Your Financial Statements (Yes, Really)
The board approves the budget and monitors finances. That means understanding income and expenses, ensuring taxes are paid, and checking in on your organization’s overall financial health—not just rubber-stamping reports.
4. Evaluate Your Executive Director Every Year
No matter how busy or uncertain the times, annual ED evaluations are a must. This is one of your few direct supervisory duties, and skipping it is a big risk for the organization—and your board.
5. Respect Organizational Boundaries
Board members support and guide the executive director—not supervise staff or direct daily operations. Clarity on roles reduces confusion and builds trust.
6. Directors & Officers Insurance Doesn’t Cover Neglect
If you skip meetings or ignore reports, your board may not be covered in the event of a legal issue. Liability insurance can protect against honest mistakes—but not inattention.
7. Use a Board Member Job Description
Every board member should know what’s expected in terms of time, conduct, and contribution. Becky shared a sample job description that includes mission alignment, confidentiality, and a 5–7 hour monthly commitment. A template is available—download the resource packet!
8. Daily, Monthly, Annual Board Habits Matter
Good governance isn’t just a once-a-year thing. Becky outlined key routines:
- Daily: Share and support your org on social media.
- Monthly: Prepare for meetings, review strategic and financial dashboards, and support your ED.
- Annually: Evaluate the ED, approve the budget, review your strategic direction, and file government forms.
9. Be a Role Model—Inside and Outside the Boardroom
Board members are ambassadors. Your behavior, both at meetings and in the community, reflects on your organization. Becky emphasized the importance of positive communication, inclusive practices, and being proactive about conflict of interest disclosures.
10. Invest in Learning—for You and Your Board
Whether it’s a resource packet (like the one Becky shared), a short course, or a free blog post, continuous learning is part of good governance. Bonus tip: check out Canadian governance expert Grant MacDonald or Law for Nonprofits, and U.S.-based resources like Propel Nonprofits, Blue Avocado, and BoardSource.
Keep in Touch with Becky Schueller
Want to dive deeper into board development, strategic planning, or nonprofit operations? Becky Schueller offers workshops, coaching, and consulting tailored to your organization’s needs. She welcomes questions from session participants and is happy to share templates or guidance on request.
Becky Schueller | She/Her | Wiin|Ella
Rebecca Schueller Training & Consulting
Serving Nonprofits, Tribes, and Counties
📧 Email: Becky@bemidjiconsulting.com
🌐 Website: www.bemidjiconsulting.com
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rebecca-becky-schueller
🌤️ Bluesky: beckytrains.bsky.social
Becky is an experienced trainer, consultant, and coach with over 30 years in the nonprofit sector, serving national, urban, and rural nonprofits, native nations, schools, and counties. Her leadership background spans executive, board, and volunteer roles in both Chicago and Minnesota.
Bonus Offer for TechSoup Attendees
Becky Schueller is offering a special bonus offer to those who attended on April 14:
🎁 Access to $10/participant registrations for any of the three April & May sessions of her workshop, Strategic Thinking & Direction to Optimize Purpose & Impact.
To register:
- Go to www.bemidjiconsulting.com
- Click the “Strategic Thinking & Direction” training on the homepage
- Complete the registration form
- On the payment screen, choose “check payments” and enter the code “TechSoup” in the note field
- Becky will send you an invoice
FAQs:
- Yes, you can register more than one participant from your organization, as long as one person attended the April 14 session.
- Yes, participants can choose different workshop dates—no need to attend on the same day.
- Prefer a PayPal invoice? Just include that request with your “TechSoup” note.
- Still have questions? Contact Becky@bemidjiconsulting.com
Thanks again to Becky and to all of you who make your communities stronger by serving on nonprofit boards. Your time, effort, and curiosity make a difference.
Replay: Augmenting Your Tech Stack with Automation and AI – April 1, 2025
At TechSoup Connect Canada’s April 1 event, we were treated to a deep dive into the practical side of AI and automation with Chaplain Timothy “TIG” Heaslet. Far from a buzzword-laden keynote, this was a grounded, generous session filled with real-world use cases, thoughtful caution, and a whole lot of heart.
TIG, a nonprofit leader and tech educator, brought both wisdom and warmth as he guided participants through how AI-powered automation can help organizations do more with less.
Who Is Chaplain Timothy “TIG” Heaslet?
Chaplain Timothy “TIG” Heaslet isn’t your average tech speaker. His path to nonprofit technology began through a mission to love and empower youth, especially those impacted by the loss of military or first responder parents. His work spans organizations like America’s Children of Fallen Heroes and his latest initiative, MissingPixel.org, which provides underserved youth with tech training, mentorship, and personal development.
Highlights from the Session
Start With Strategy, Not Shiny Tools
Before jumping into AI, TIG emphasized the need to revisit your nonprofit’s goals and workflows. AI can’t fix what isn’t clearly defined. Instead, it’s most powerful when it’s applied to well-understood processes—especially repetitive or data-driven ones.
Understanding Automation: Procedural vs. Agentic
TIG broke down two key automation types:
- Procedural automation: Traditional, rules-based systems (think Zapier or Make.com) that follow predictable steps.
- Agentic automation: Powered by large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT or Claude, these workflows bring a conversational or decision-making layer into the mix.
While agentic automation opens new doors (like custom chatbots or proposal writers), it’s not without challenges. TIG cautioned about relying too heavily on agentic flows due to inconsistency and potential errors—especially when data accuracy is critical.
Real-World Nonprofit Use Cases
Some practical AI-powered automation examples TIG shared:
- Automatically texting contacts for updated mailing addresses and syncing that info into your CRM
- Building chatbots that escalate complex queries to humans, then learn from the answers
- Using vector databases (like Pinecone or Supabase) to create a searchable knowledge base from internal PDFs or video transcripts
- Testing multiple LLMs via tools like OpenRouter to find the best fit for your content type
Security and Privacy Considerations
For organizations handling sensitive data (like youth programs or legal aid), TIG stressed the importance of self-hosting or choosing tools that meet compliance standards. He recommended open-source options like n8n or Activepieces for building secure, customizable workflows.
The Takeaway: Build Slow and Smart
The nonprofit AI landscape is evolving fast. But TIG’s message was clear: don’t get distracted by hype. Start with simple use cases. Focus on processes you already understand. Build with intention—and always, always test for failure points before scaling.
As TIG put it, “This is the worst this tech is ever going to be. It only gets better from here.”
Want to Learn More?
TIG is open to connecting with other nonprofit folks looking to explore AI and automation. You can find him on LinkedIn or email tig@quietlyworking.org
And stay tuned—TechSoup Connect Canada may just bring TIG back for another session later this year. With the pace of change in AI, three months might as well be a lifetime.
Event Replay: How Pacific Legal Education and Outreach is Developing an AI-Powered Chatbot
Pacific Legal Education and Outreach Society (PLEO) is pioneering new ways to provide legal education to nonprofits. At the March 11, 2025 TechSoup Connect Canada event Minnie Karanja (Acting Director of Innovation and Engagement), and Kris Elgstrand (Head of Communications) shared insights into their development of an AI-powered chatbot aimed at making legal information more accessible.
Why Legal Education for Nonprofits Matters
PLEO has been providing legal education to nonprofits for over 20 years. Initially focused on the arts sector, they have since expanded to serve organizations across Canada. Their mission is to make legal guidance more accessible through innovative tools such as LawForNonprofits.ca.
Key legal challenges nonprofits face include:
- Record keeping – Ensuring compliance with regulations
- Privacy laws – Understanding personal information protection
- Employment regulations – Navigating contracts and labor laws
To address these concerns, PLEO developed a range of accessible legal resources, including fact sheets, FAQs, self-assessment tools, and legal guides.
Introducing the AI Chatbot
PLEO’s latest innovation is an AI-powered chatbot, designed to offer nonprofits an intuitive, conversational way to access legal information. This chatbot is built using retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), a model trained primarily on PLEO’s verified legal content to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Key Features of the Chatbot:
- Conversational Interface – Users can ask legal questions naturally, as they would with a lawyer.
- Verified Knowledge Base – The chatbot pulls from PLEO’s repository of vetted legal information.
- Guided Navigation – Helps users refine their legal questions and locate the most relevant information.
- Guardrails for Accuracy – Strict controls prevent misinformation by keeping responses within PLEO’s area of expertise.
The chatbot aims to enhance existing legal resources by providing another avenue for nonprofits to obtain quick and reliable answers.
Challenges in AI Chatbot Development
Developing a chatbot for legal education comes with unique challenges:
- Ensuring accuracy – Unlike general AI assistants, the chatbot must provide legally sound guidance. Early testing revealed that the chatbot sometimes pulled from non-vetted sources, requiring further refinement.
- Balancing accessibility and depth – The chatbot must be detailed enough to offer useful answers while remaining easy to navigate.
- Guardrails and Testing – Implementing restrictions on what topics the chatbot addresses, such as avoiding advice on real estate law or tax-specific charity regulations.
- Continuous testing – PLEO’s team, including legal experts, conducts rigorous testing using real nonprofit legal queries to refine responses.
The Role of Testing in AI Implementation
PLEO’s development team emphasized that testing is the most time-intensive part of the chatbot’s creation. Their process involves:
- Developing a standardized set of legal questions
- Evaluating chatbot responses for accuracy and relevance
- Rating chatbot performance using a structured review system
- Refining AI behavior through iterative updates
Unlike other AI applications designed for exploratory research, this chatbot must provide precise and actionable legal guidance, making ongoing refinement essential.
Lessons for Nonprofits Exploring AI
For nonprofits considering AI-powered solutions, PLEO’s journey offers valuable takeaways:
- Start with a strong knowledge base – AI is only as good as the data it’s trained on.
- Ensure legal compliance – If your chatbot provides legal or policy guidance, ensure it is built with reliable, vetted sources.
- Focus on accessibility – Provide multiple ways for users to engage with content (e.g., fact sheets, step-by-step guides, and AI-powered assistance).
- Test rigorously – AI responses should be reviewed and refined by experts to maintain trust and accuracy.
For organizations looking for a lightweight way to explore AI, try experimenting with ChatGPT’s custom GPT builder, which allows users to train AI on specific internal documents and workflows.
Conclusion
PLEO’s AI chatbot is a promising step toward democratizing legal information for nonprofits. By combining structured legal resources with conversational AI, they are making complex legal topics more accessible, actionable, and affordable for organizations with limited budgets.
For those interested in learning more, visit:
🔗 LawForNonprofits.ca
🔗 Pacific Legal Education and Outreach
📺 Watch the full event replay
As AI tools continue to evolve, nonprofits have exciting opportunities to enhance service delivery, streamline operations, and increase accessibility. PLEO’s chatbot development offers a compelling model for organizations looking to integrate AI into their work while maintaining high standards of accuracy and reliability.
Nonprofits, It’s Time to Play: Exploring Bluesky for Digital Engagement
Nonprofits are often stretched thin, navigating tight budgets and competing demands for attention. So, why should you make time to experiment with yet another social platform? Because playing with new tech isn’t just about staying relevant—it’s about finding fresh ways to connect with supporters, amplify your mission, and maybe even spark joy along the way.
At the February 25, 2025 Connect Canada event, digital specialist Madeleine Sugden shared insights from the UK charity sector’s experiences with Bluesky, the decentralized social platform that has been gaining traction as an alternative to X (formerly Twitter). Here’s why nonprofits should consider adding Bluesky to their digital mix and how you can get started.
Why Bluesky? A Safe Haven from X
Since Elon Musk took over Twitter in late 2022, the platform’s environment has changed dramatically. Many nonprofits have struggled with declining engagement, increased toxicity, and algorithmic unpredictability.
Some organizations have quietly stopped posting, others have made dramatic exits. Yet, most large charities remain because they feel they have no alternative.
Enter Bluesky. Nonprofits who have tested the platform report:
- A relief from the negativity of X.
- A more engaged and interactive community.
- A chronological feed (no algorithm manipulating visibility).
- Higher engagement rates despite smaller followings.
Early Movers Are Seeing Big Wins
Organizations like Coast Funds, an Indigenous-led conservation finance nonprofit in Canada, jumped onto Bluesky early and saw rapid growth after the 2024 U.S. election. They now have half the followers they had on X but with significantly higher engagement and more relevant connections.
Even smaller organizations are seeing real impact. One nonprofit shared that their first donation via Bluesky came from an unexpected supporter—a legal services firm that resonated with their mission. They had never received donations via X, yet Bluesky delivered nearly $1,000 from a single post.
Should Your Nonprofit Join Bluesky? Ask Yourself:
- Is your audience (or potential audience) on Bluesky?
- Do you have time to experiment and build a new community?
- Are you struggling with engagement on X or other platforms?
- Do you want to be part of shaping a new, positive online space?
If the answer to any of these is yes, then it’s time to dip your toes in.
Getting Started: Your First Steps on Bluesky
- Claim Your Account — Prevent impersonation and secure your nonprofit’s presence.
- Follow Key Accounts — Use “starter packs” to find other charities, journalists, and partners.
- Make Your First Post Count — Be playful, mission-driven, or inspiring. This sets the tone.
- Be Social — Comment, repost, and interact. Bluesky rewards engagement, not just broadcasting.
- Tell Your Audience — Share your Bluesky handle in your newsletters, website, and social channels.
A Note of Caution: Social Media is Borrowed Land
Madeleine reminded us that nonprofits must not rely too heavily on any single social platform. As we’ve seen with X, platforms can change overnight. Bluesky might be thriving now, but diversifying your digital presence remains crucial.
Invest in what you own: your website, email list, and direct supporter relationships.
Decentralization and the AT Protocol
One of the key advantages of Bluesky is its foundation on the AT Protocol (Authenticated Transfer Protocol). Unlike traditional social media platforms that are centralized and controlled by a single entity, Bluesky is built on decentralized infrastructure, allowing users to own their identities and content across different platforms. This means nonprofits can have more control over their digital presence, reduce dependency on proprietary algorithms, and ensure that their communities remain connected regardless of corporate shifts or platform changes. While adoption of decentralized networks is still in its early stages, Bluesky presents a forward-thinking approach to social media that aligns with nonprofit values of openness, accessibility, and community-driven engagement.
Final Thought: Have Fun With It
Nonprofit work is serious, but social media doesn’t have to be. Bluesky offers a chance to reclaim the joy of online engagement. Post a fun fact, share an unexpected story, or (as one UK museum did) lean into viral humor—their “Absolute Unit” sheep meme still makes waves years later.
So, take a cue from the early adopters. Secure your handle, start experimenting, and most importantly—play a little. The future of nonprofit digital engagement might just be waiting in the (blue) sky.
Resources
Explore these helpful guides and insights to navigate Bluesky for nonprofits:
10 Tips for AI-Assisted Advocacy Research: Learnings from “How to Build AI Tools That Save Time and Money”
February’s TechSoup Connect Canada event “How to Build AI Tools That Save Time and Money” was EPIC! We had an insightful discussion with experts Angeline Robertson and Matthew Lichty from Stand.earth Research Group, exploring how nonprofits can use AI and machine learning for advocacy research.
Here are the top 10 takeaways from the session, with examples from the event transcript to help you integrate AI into your research workflows:
1. Have an AI Data Policy
- Establish clear guidelines on what data can and cannot be used in AI-assisted research.
- “We have an AI policy at Stand.earth so that we do not use any confidential, personal, or sensitive information. We’re really looking at publicly available information online for most of our data structuring work.” – Angeline Robertson
2. Start with Something You Know Well but Want to Do Faster
- Identify a repetitive, time-consuming task AI can streamline.
- “We weren’t looking for AI tools to reinvent the wheel. We just wanted to integrate AI into our methodologies in ways that let us get more done, faster.” – Angeline Robertson
3. Hire a Data Coach and Focus on Training Your Team
- Instead of outsourcing, train your team to integrate AI into research workflows.
- “Instead of hiring a firm to build a tool, we hired a data science coach to teach us how to do it ourselves. This meant we could keep learning and improving our methods rather than relying on outside consultants.” – Angeline Robertson
4. Start with Data Structuring and Use Information Available Online
- AI excels at organizing and categorizing unstructured data from PDFs, reports, and websites.
- “One of the biggest gains for us has been unlocking unstructured data stuck in PDFs—things we used to have to comb through manually. AI helps us turn that mess into structured data we can actually use.” – Matthew Lichty
5. Harness Your Domain Knowledge
- AI can process large datasets, but human expertise is essential for quality control.
- “We didn’t just plug in AI and hope for the best. We used years of experience analyzing bank policies to train AI on what actually matters. The human touch makes all the difference.” – Matthew Lichty
6. Use More Than One LLM
- Diversifying models reduces bias and enhances accuracy.
- “We’ve started using Perplexity, which lets us test different AI models side by side. This helps us spot inconsistencies and reduce the risk of relying too much on one tool.” – Matthew Lichty
7. Remember: Good Prompt Engineering Requires Good Writing
- The way you phrase prompts impacts AI output quality.
- “Writing clear, specific prompts is half the battle. If you ask AI a vague question, you’ll get a vague answer. We spend a lot of time refining our prompts to get the best results.” – Angeline Robertson
8. LLMs Have Short Attention Spans—Break It Down for Them
- Complex tasks should be split into smaller sub-tasks for better accuracy.
- “AI models don’t do well with long, complicated tasks. We had to break things into smaller steps, like focusing on one policy classification at a time, to get better results.” – Matthew Lichty
9. Use Coded Approaches to Analyze at Scale
- GUI-based tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Perplexity) are good for small tasks.
- “We started with the ChatGPT interface, but once we needed to analyze hundreds of documents, we wrote Python scripts to automate the process. That shift saved us an enormous amount of time.” – Matthew Lichty
10. Keep the Human in the Loop!
- AI is a tool—not a replacement for human judgment.
- “We’re not trying to replace researchers. AI helps us clear out the grunt work so we can spend more time thinking critically and making decisions.” – Angeline Robertson
Final Thoughts
The session showed that AI isn’t about replacing researchers—it’s about freeing up time for meaningful work. By using AI for structuring, analyzing, and summarizing data, advocacy organizations can dig deeper into their research and push for change more effectively.
I hope to see you at our next event!
Tech Innovations Transforming Nonprofits in 2025
In 2025, innovative technology is reshaping the way nonprofits function and engage with their communities. During a recent TechSoup Connect BC event, several experts provided insights into how nonprofits can leverage these advancements. Below is a summary of their presentations, along with video links and slides for further exploration.
Kim Peterson: Utilizing ChatGPT as Your Fundraising Assistant
Kim Peterson, a fundraising consultant from Cedar Fundraising, showcased how ChatGPT can serve as a fundraising assistant. Kim discussed building custom GPTs to aid in tasks such as grant writing and strategy development by using precise prompts. This approach helps save time and enhances communication with donors. Watch Kim’s full presentation here. Or try out Kim’s Make me a mini-case GPT.
Minnie Karanja: Leveraging Technology to Avoid Legal Issues in Nonprofits
Minnie Karanja from Pacific Legal Education and Outreach addressed how nonprofits can navigate legal challenges using the free tool, Law for Nonprofits. She emphasized the importance of privacy policies and how the tool assists in developing legally compliant documents. Learn more from Minnie by watching her talk here.
Dawn Walker: Exploring Alternatives to Big Tech Social Media
Dawn Walker highlighted the significance of moving away from big tech platforms like Meta and X, proposing alternatives such as Mastodon, BlueSky, and PixelFed. She stressed how these platforms may offer better alignment with nonprofit values and goals. Watch her presentation here and check out her slides. Or schedule Dawn for a call.
Angeline Robertson: Using AI and Machine Learning for Data Extraction
Angeline Robertson from Stand.earth shared insights on employing AI in research to protect the Amazon from exploitation. Her team uses large language models to automate the processing of bank policies and financial data, aiding advocacy efforts effectively. View Angeline’s full session here and access the slides.
David Pisarek: The Importance of Digital Accessibility
David Pisarek from Wow Digital spoke about ensuring digital accessibility for nonprofits to maximize impact. He introduced tools for assessing website accessibility and emphasized the legal implications of non-compliance. Explore David’s advice here with slides.
Alison Knott: Conducting Easy Audience Research with SparkToro
Alison Knott introduced SparkToro, a tool for audience research, helping nonprofits understand where their audiences engage online. This tool aids in crafting relevant content and identifying collaboration opportunities. Watch Alison’s presentation here.
Jeff Golby: The Future of Philanthropy is Donor-Driven
Jeff Golby from WellFunded discussed transforming philanthropy with a donor-driven approach through WellFunded, a platform connecting donors and charities efficiently. This system aims to enhance trust and impact. View Jeff’s insight here.
Deepa Chaudhary: Revolutionizing Grant Writing with GrantOrb
Deepa Chaudhary showcased GrantOrb, an AI-powered tool simplifying grant writing from hours to minutes. This tool automates proposal creation, making it accessible and less time-consuming for nonprofits. Learn about GrantOrb’s capabilities here.
Together, these expert insights paint a picture of a future where technology empowers nonprofits to operate more effectively, engage audiences authentically, and align more closely with their missions. By embracing these tools and approaches, nonprofits can navigate the challenges of 2025 with greater agility and impact.
Leveraging AI for Nonprofit Growth: Recap of “How to Fundraise with AI Marketing” Event with Deepa Chaudhary of GrantOrb
The “How to Fundraise with AI Marketing” event, hosted by TechSoup Connect, brought together nonprofit professionals and enthusiasts eager to understand how artificial intelligence can revolutionize their fundraising strategies. Deepa Chaudhary, the founder of Grant Orb and a seasoned nonprofit expert, guided participants through the intricacies of AI and its potential to empower organizations with limited resources. Here’s a recap of this insightful session.
Introduction to AI in Fundraising
Deepa Chaudhary kicked off the session by highlighting her nonprofit background and her journey with AI. She shared how AI, a once complex and distant technology, has now become a practical tool for nonprofits. AI simplifies tasks, allowing organizations to do more with fewer resources by creating, personalizing, and optimizing fundraising efforts.
Understanding Generative AI and Its Impact
Deepa delved into the core of recent advancements in AI, focusing on generative AI powered by large language models. She discussed the transformation from machine learning-driven predictions to real-time interactive AI tools like ChatGPT, which have democratized AI access. This wave of generative AI enables nonprofits to generate content, whether it’s text, images, or even music, in ways previously unimaginable.
AI Tools for Nonprofit Success
Deepa introduced several AI tools that are instrumental for nonprofit fundraising:
- Chatbots and Real-Time Interaction: Tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Grok provide interactive platforms for nonprofits to engage, learn, and generate insights.
- AI Visual Creations: Platforms such as MidJourney and Grok allow nonprofits to create compelling visuals that resonate with their audiences.
- AI Music and Art Creation: AI technologies enable nonprofits to integrate music into their communication strategies, enhancing their emotional appeal.
Practical Applications of AI in Nonprofits
The session explored practical applications of AI, focusing on creating visuals, generating captions, and optimizing image prompts. Deepa demonstrated how AI could empower organizations to create stunning, impactful content on a minimal budget, allowing small teams to achieve big results.
Ethical Considerations and Data Privacy
Deepa addressed important ethical considerations, particularly around the use of photorealistic AI-generated images of people. She encouraged nonprofits to align AI use with their organizational values and priorities, ensuring ethical practices and data privacy.
Deepa’s Top AI Tools
Deepa shared her personal go-to AI tools: Claude for general use, MidJourney for image creation, Grok for real-time research and image generation, and HeyGen for producing videos. She emphasized the importance of understanding tool capabilities and selecting those that align with organizational needs and goals.
Embracing AI for Nonprofit Growth
The session concluded with Deepa encouraging nonprofits to embrace AI technologies. She urged organizations to actively build their “AI muscle” by integrating AI tools into their workflows, fostering innovation, and improving efficiency in their fundraising efforts.
In sum, this event equipped nonprofit professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to harness AI for enhanced fundraising and communication. Deepa’s insights and practical examples showcased the potential of AI to accelerate nonprofit missions and amplify impact.
Stay tuned for more engaging events from TechSoup Connect Western Canada, where innovation meets purpose!
Resources
Here are links for some of the tools mentioned in the webinar:
- AI for Nonprofits newsletter
- LinkedIn Article on AI Music for Causes
- TechSoup Blog on Generative AI Policy
Generative AI and AI Community Resources
Google Tools
Audio and Video Tools
Unlocking Project Success: Highlights from “Feasibility Studies 101” with Alida Horsley
Feasibility studies are crucial to ensure project success, ensuring projects meet goals in a way that makes the best use of your team’s time, effort, and money.
In the dynamic landscape of project management, the foundation laid before a project begins can often be the deciding factor between success and failure. On October 15th, 2024, TechSoup Connect Western Canada hosted an insightful event titled “Feasibility Studies 101: Increasing Project Success With Preliminary Evaluation.” The session featured Alida Horsley, a renowned user experience researcher and designer from Tandem Studios, who shared valuable insights into the art and science of feasibility studies and their crucial role in driving successful project outcomes.
Meet the Expert: Alida Horsley
Our guest presenter, Alida Horsley, the research and design lead at Tandem Studios, brought nearly a decade of experience in user experience research and design to the table. She articulated how UX design is instrumental in aligning projects with the needs of end users, operational capabilities, and business objectives. This alignment ensures that projects are not only efficient but also cater to both user satisfaction and business goals.
Understanding Feasibility Studies
Alida defined feasibility studies as comprehensive evaluations that assess a project’s viability and determine whether the expected return on investment justifies the initial costs. She outlined essential components of feasibility studies, including business operations, strategy, stakeholder relationships, user experience, technical and financial resources, market analysis, and brand impact.
The Advantages of Feasibility Studies
Delving deeper into the subject, Alida shared numerous benefits of conducting feasibility studies. These include minimizing risks, reducing biases, enhancing decision-making processes, and boosting operational efficiency. Most importantly, feasibility studies facilitate an early understanding of stakeholder and end-user perspectives, leading to stronger partnerships and more successful project outcomes.
Real-World Examples and Best Practices
Throughout her presentation, Alida provided compelling real-world examples showcasing the significant influence feasibility studies can have on a project’s direction. One striking case involved BC United (formerly the BC Liberal Party) and United Way BC, where a lack of proper preliminary evaluation resulted in brand confusion and public backlash. This example underscored the necessity of thorough planning and foresight in project management.
Engaging Stakeholders: Effective Interviews and Buy-In
A critical aspect of feasibility studies is conducting interviews with stakeholders, staff, and end users. Alida stressed the importance of active listening and capturing unbiased feedback to gain a comprehensive understanding of the project landscape. She also offered strategies for securing buy-in from relevant parties by clearly communicating the purpose, benefits, and expected outcomes of the study.
Crafting the Feasibility Report
A successful feasibility study culminates in a well-structured report that captures key findings. Alida emphasized the importance of creating an impactful executive summary, as it often becomes the primary reference point for stakeholders. This report should clearly outline the study’s main insights and recommendations for moving forward.
Conclusion: Embracing the Future
As the event wrapped up, participants engaged in a lively Q&A session, tackling specific queries and discussing further applications of feasibility studies in their work. Alida reinforced the essential role that feasibility studies play in mitigating project risks and building client trust.
By adopting a systematic, user-centered approach to feasibility studies, organizations can unlock new levels of project success. This methodology fosters an environment where informed decision-making and effective resource allocation lead to sustainable outcomes. The insights shared during “Feasibility Studies 101” remind us all—nonprofits and businesses alike—of the immense value that thoughtful, systematic project evaluation brings.
TechSoup Connect and Alida Horsley inspired attendees to explore how feasibility studies can enhance their projects, emphasizing that early investment in research lays the groundwork for greater achievements and innovations.