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.