Nonprofit donor engagement strategies for 2026 are changing rapidly as donor expectations, technology, and economic realities reshape fundraising. Kimberly O’Donnell, Chief Fundraising Officer at Bonterra, shares fresh research and practical insights from Bonterra’s 2026 Impact Report to help nonprofit leaders build stronger donor relationships and sustainable revenue growth.

For decades, charitable giving and volunteerism have remained largely stagnant at approximately 2.5% of GDP. Bonterra’s ambitious “3% by 2033” initiative aims to change that by helping organizations increase annual giving through smarter engagement, recurring donor programs, volunteer activation, and responsible use of artificial intelligence.

Kimberly explains why recurring giving may be one of the most important opportunities available to nonprofits today. Rather than continuously replacing one-time donors, organizations can build predictable revenue streams by encouraging monthly and annual commitments from supporters who already care deeply about the mission.

The conversation also explores a growing challenge facing the sector: donor dollars are increasing while donor participation continues to decline. According to Bonterra’s research, 43% of respondents reported they cannot afford to give more in today’s economic environment. That reality requires nonprofits to create new pathways for engagement through volunteerism, advocacy, micro-volunteering opportunities, and personalized communication.

“We have what we call dollars up, donors down.”

Kimberly also discusses how AI is moving beyond simple content creation and becoming a strategic tool for donor segmentation, campaign planning, data analysis, and supporter engagement. One organization highlighted in the report increased annual appeal revenue by 41% after integrating AI into its fundraising campaign strategy.

“When we treat them as individuals and not as segments, donors feel it.”

Whether you’re a nonprofit executive, fundraiser, board member, or development professional, this episode offers valuable perspective on where fundraising is heading and how organizations can prepare for the next era of donor engagement.

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