Nonprofit AI

A hands-on roadmap to implement Artificial Intelligence in your nonprofit organization

You've probably done everything in life that you were told to do: get educated, secure a job, work hard and be careful with money. And where did that lead you? Straight to the middle! But weren't you made for more?

In Nonprofit AI: A Comprehensive Guide to Implementing Artificial Intelligence for Social Good, a team of veteran artificial intelligence (AI) experts from the nonprofit sector delivers an insightful and practical overview of how purpose-driven organizations can use AI to increase their impact and advance their missions. The authors offer an all-encompassing guide to understanding the promise and peril of implementing AI in the nonprofit sector, addressing both the theoretical and hands-on aspects of this necessary transformation.

The book provides you with case studies, practical tools, ethical frameworks and templates you can use to address the challenges of AI adoption – including ethical limitations – head-on. It draws on the authors' thirty years of combined experience in the nonprofit industry to help you equip your nonprofit stakeholders with the knowledge and tools they need to successfully navigate the AI revolution.

You'll also find:

• Innovative and proven approaches to responsible and beneficial AI implementation taken by real-world organizations that will inspire and guide you as you move forward
• Strategic planning, project management, and data governance templates and resources you can use immediately in your own nonprofit
• Information on available AI training programs and resources to build AI fluency and capacity within nonprofit organizations.
• Best practices for ensuring AI systems are transparent, accountable, and aligned with the mission and values of nonprofit organizations.

Perfect for anyone interested in enhancing their nonprofit organization with the thoughtful, responsible, and beneficial integration of AI technologies, Nonprofit AI is a must-read for nonprofit directors, managers, fundraisers, employees, consultants, volunteers, and other stakeholders.

Our Commitment to Responsible and Beneficial AI in Writing Nonprofit AI xvii

Introduction xix

Chapter 1: The Need for Innovation in the Nonprofit Sector Has Never Been Greater 1

Chapter 2: AI Deconstructed: Separating Myth, Hype, and Reality 13

Chapter 3: AI Fluency and the Future Nonprofit Workforce 33

Chapter 4: The AI-First Nonprofit 47

Chapter 5: AI for Program Development and Impact Measurement 57

Chapter 6: AI for Fundraising, Resource Development, and Donor Experience 67

Chapter 7: AI for Volunteer Engagement and Management 79

Chapter 8: AI for Nonprofit Marketing and Communications 89

Chapter 9: AI for Administration and Human Resources 99

Chapter 10: AI Transformation Is a Journey, Not a Destination 111

Chapter 11: Beyond AI Ethics: The Nonprofit Sector’s Imperative for Responsible and Beneficial AI 125

Chapter 12: Evaluating AI for Nonprofits 145

Chapter 13: Humanity or Utility? New Questions for a New World 159

Chapter 14: Overcoming Challenges in AI Adoption 167

Chapter 15: Building an AI Strategy for Your Nonprofit 179

Chapter 16: Training and Capacity Building 189

Chapter 17: The Future of AI for Nonprofits 197

Chapter 18: Parting Thoughts 209

Appendix: Resources for AI Governance Templates and Frameworks 215

Glossary 219

References 229

About the Authors 235

Index 237

NATHAN CHAPPELL, MBA, MNA, CFRE, is a thought leader, public speaker, author, and artificial intelligence (AI) inventor, recognized globally as an expert at the intersection of AI and generosity. He has led AI initiatives for many of the largest nonprofits in the U.S. and founded Fundraising.AI, an advocacy organization promoting responsible and beneficial AI in the nonprofit sector. His award-winning 2022 book, The Generosity Crisis, was hailed as “required reading” by NonProfit PRO. With over 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience, Nathan is a sought-after keynote speaker, advisor and contributor featured in The Chronicle of Philanthropy, NPR, Forbes, and more. His podcast, Fundraising.AI, ranks among the top nonprofit technology podcasts worldwide.

SCOTT ROSENKRANS, MS, is a leading voice on the use of artificial intelligence for nonprofits. As an experienced data science leader, he has built and implemented custom machine learning models that drive fundraising success for nonprofits of all sizes. A founding member of Fundraising.AI and cohost of the Fundraising.AI podcast Scott advocates for responsible and beneficial AI, helping organizations navigate the opportunities and challenges of AI adoption. With over 15 years of nonprofit experience, he is known for bridging complex AI solutions with the human-centered missions of nonprofits. His work has earned recognition from Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas Awards, highlighting his commitment to innovation and impact.

In Nonprofit AI: A Comprehensive Guide to Implementing Artificial Intelligence for Social Good, a team of distinguished artificial intelligence (AI) pioneers from the nonprofit sector deliver a groundbreaking discussion of how purpose-driven organizations should use AI to accelerate their impact and advance their missions. They offer a comprehensive guide to the perils and promise of AI implementation in the nonprofit sector, addressing head-on both the theoretical and already-realized aspects of this necessary transformation.

The book provides you with the case studies, practical tools, ethical frameworks, and templates you can start to use immediately to work through the challenges of ethical AI adoption. Authors Chappell and Rosenkrans draw on their thirty years of combined experience in the nonprofit industry to walk you through the AI revolution, all while ensuring you and your organization remain true to your ethical foundations. You’ll also find information on case studies, available AI training programs and resources to build AI fluency and capacity within your nonprofit organization.

Nonprofit AI offers time tested approaches to successful AI implementation that remain true to your mission and beneficial to humanity at large. These strategies are taken directly from real-world experience and organizations that will inspire and guide you as you move forward with your own AI transformation.

Perfect for everyone who wants to amplify their nonprofit organization’s effectiveness through the responsible and beneficial integration of AI technologies, Nonprofit AI is an essential resource for nonprofit directors, fundraisers, managers, consultants, nonprofit employees, volunteers, and other stakeholders.

Praise for Nonprofit AI

“Nonprofit AI is an essential guide for mission-driven organizations navigating the AI revolution. Practical, ethical, and insightful — this book empowers nonprofits to harness AI for greater impact.”
—AFUA BRUCE, Author, The Tech That Comes Next, and Founder of ANB Advisory Group LLC

“Nonprofit AI provides a clear and practical roadmap for organizations to embrace AI while overcoming resistance to change. I only wish this resource had been available when I was implementing AI in my own organization.”
—JAIME TRIBBLE DAVIS, Director, Prospect Development, World Vision USA

“This book demystifies AI for the nonprofit sector, offering a responsible and practical approach to leveraging technology for greater impact. A must-read for any leader looking to navigate the future of philanthropy with confidence and clarity.”
—SHANNON MCCRACKEN, CEO, The Nonprofit Alliance

“Nonprofit AI makes artificial intelligence accessible to mission-driven organizations, helping leaders navigate its complexities and apply it responsibly for greater social impact. Packed with real-world examples and strategic insights, this book is an essential resource for nonprofits at any stage of AI adoption.”
—LANCE PIERCE, CEO, NetHope

“Nonprofit AI is a practical and actionable overview of the many opportunities presented by AI technology. This book is a must-read for anyone who needs to transform their work — and wants to meet this moment responsibly.”
—WOODROW ROSENBAUM, Chief Data Officer, GivingTuesday

“Nonprofit AI is an essential guide for nonprofit leaders ready to harness AI for greater impact. Chappell and Rosenkrans cut through the hype and provide a clear roadmap for ethical AI adoption in fundraising, operations, and program development. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to future-proof their mission and drive meaningful change with AI.”
—NEIL SAHOTA, AI Advisor to the United Nations, and Author of Own the A.I. Revolution

“This book is a must-read for anyone committed to leveraging technology in service of social good.”
—MICHAEL THATCHER, President and CEO, Charity Navigator

"Nonprofit AI is an essential guide for mission-driven organizations navigating the AI revolution. Practical, ethical, and insightful—this book empowers nonprofits to harness AI for greater impact."
—Afua Bruce, Author, The Tech That Comes Next, and Founder of ANB Advisory Group LLC

“Nonprofit AI provides a clear and practical roadmap for organizations to embrace AI while overcoming resistance to change. I only wish this resource had been available when I was implementing AI in my own organization.”
—Jaime Tribble Davis, Director Prospect Development, World Vision USA

“This book demystifies AI for the nonprofit sector, offering a responsible and practical approach to leveraging technology for greater impact. A must-read for any leader looking to navigate the future of philanthropy with confidence and clarity.”
—Shannon McCracken, CEO, The Nonprofit Alliance

"Nonprofit AI makes artificial intelligence accessible to mission-driven organizations, helping leaders navigate its complexities and apply it responsibly for greater social impact. Packed with real-world examples and strategic insights, this book is an essential resource for nonprofits at any stage of AI adoption."
—Lance Pierce, CEO of NetHope

"Nonprofit AI is a practical and actionable overview of the many opportunities presented by AI technology. This book is a must-read for anyone who needs to transform their work - and wants to meet this moment responsibly."
—Woodrow Rosenbaum, Chief Data Officer, GivingTuesday

“Nonprofit AI is an essential guide for nonprofit leaders ready to harness AI for greater impact. Chappell and Rosenkrans cut through the hype and provide a clear roadmap for ethical AI adoption in fundraising, operations, and program development. This book is a must read for anyone looking to future-proof their mission and drive meaningful change with AI."
—Neil Sahota, AI Advisor to the United Nations, Author of Own the A.I. Revolution

“This book is a must-read for anyone committed to leveraging technology in service of social good.”
—Michael Thatcher, President and CEO, Charity Navigator

“This powerful guide looks at how AI can revolutionize the work of the non-profit sector, for both the people involved in fundraising and the communities their non-profits serve. The authors provide practical and easy-to-understand advice for those just starting on the AI journey and those who are already on their way.”
—Alice Ayres, President and CEO, Association for Healthcare Philanthropy

"Working with thousands of nonprofits at AWS over the last 10 years has shown me that successful AI adoption isn't about size or budget - it's about intentional implementation. This book finally gives organizations of all sizes the roadmap they need to transform their operations and increase their impact."
—Rick Buettner, Director of Nonprofits at Amazon Web Services (AWS)

"Wealth is great, but connection is better when it comes to finding and engaging donors. That’s where they prove AI (and all of the other vowels) come in.”
—Paul Clolery, vice president & editorial director, The NonProfit Times.

“Nonprofit AI is more than just a guide to technology—it’s a blueprint for the future of philanthropy. By weaving together real-world examples, ethical frameworks, and actionable strategies, this book empowers nonprofits to embrace AI confidently and responsibly. It’s an indispensable resource for any organization ready to innovate while staying mission-focused.”
—Gabe Cooper, CEO, Virtuous

"I have read many books on AI meant to be a guide, but this one isn’t just one of those guides; this book is a call to action for our nonprofits to step up and lead with courage. Through every chapter and example, authors make AI feel approachable and doable while reminding us of our tremendous responsibility in shaping its use for social good. This book is a must-read for anyone who cares about impact – in other words, our entire social sector."
—Meena Das, CEO, Namaste Data

"Nonprofit AI offers nonprofit leaders an accessible and practical guide to using AI to enhance their impact without adding to their burnout. Chappell and Rosenkrans cut through the noise to show how AI can support, not replace, the human side of fundraising."
—Mallory Erickson, Author of What the Fundraising: Embracing and Enabling the People Behind the Purpose

"I highly recommend Nonprofit AI: A Comprehensive Guide to Implementing Artificial Intelligence for Social Good and I commend Nathan and Scott for putting it together. This book is packed with practical advice and real examples that show nonprofit leaders how to use AI in ways that actually make sense for their mission. It cuts through the noise and fluff and makes AI feel less intimidating, which is exactly what so many organizations need right now. If you're looking to make smarter decisions and get back to the work that really matters, this book is for you."
—Shereese Floyd, AI Consultants for Nonprofits

“Nonprofit AI is a must-read for nonprofit leaders looking to leverage artificial intelligence to amplify their mission while navigating the complexities of responsible adoption. With a pragmatic approach, this book demystifies AI and provides real-world strategies for integrating technology in a way that enhances efficiency, engagement, and long-term impact. In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, this is the guide that every mission-driven organization needs to stay ahead while staying true to its values.”
—Lori Freeman, Global GM & VP, Salesforce for Nonprofits

“Whether you're new to AI or looking to refine your strategy, this book offers the tools and knowledge necessary to explore its promise and potential while tackling the critical work needed to promote and achieve ethical AI—ensuring that the future of the nonprofit sector advances social good."
—Alesia Frerichs, President & CEO, Lutheran Services in America

"AI is becoming a fundamental part of the nonprofit sector. Nonprofit AI explores how organizations can adapt and innovate with AI. Their insights provide a practical perspective on leveraging AI responsibly to maximize impact."
—Randall Hallett, CEO and Founder, Hallett Philanthropy

"As a nonprofit CEO implementing AI daily, I can affirm this isn't just another tech manual - it's the definitive playbook our sector desperately needs, transforming AI from buzzword to practical tool for amplifying our missions. Just as our predecessors couldn't imagine running a charity without electricity, this book shows us why we won't remember how we served communities without AI."
—Dan Kershaw, Executive Director at Furniture Bank

“This book is for the innovators who see AI as a mission multiplier. It's for nonprofit leaders ready to scale their impact without scaling their workload. It's for the change-makers who know that in a world of algorithms, authentic human connection matters more than ever. And it's for those who believe that compassion plus innovation is how we'll solve humanity's greatest challenges. For those who hope the future looks like the past, or that AI is a passing fad, this book will change your mind.”
—Tim Lockie, Founder and CEO, The Human Stack

“This book perfectly frames how the balance of human touch, advanced technology and mission impact can amplify philanthropy. Nonprofit AI is the ideal bridge to connect fundraising progress with practical application, today.”
—Justin McCord, Chief of Staff, RKD Group

“Nathan and Scott provide the expertise and ethical clarity nonprofits need to navigate the rapidly evolving world of AI. This book turns complex concepts into actionable strategies, ensuring organizations can harness AI for real, mission-driven change.”
—Ben Miller, SVP of Data Science and Analytics, Bonterra

"Over 30 years in technology and the past decade implementing AI in organizations, I have seen nonprofits struggle to keep pace with private enterprises and governments. Nathan and Scott deliver a commonsense roadmap designed specifically for nonprofit leaders navigating the AI revolution. Their guide bridges technological innovation with practical implementation, offering insights and real-world case studies to empower responsible fundraising and boost operational efficiency."
—Shawn Olds, Co-Founder, boodleAI

“Nonprofit leaders should race to read this essential nonprofit AI playbook and empower their teams to rapidly adopt AI technology responsibly and ethically across every nonprofit job to be done. The organizations who put Chappell and Roseknrans’s data-driven AI best practices to work in responsible and ethical ways are the ones who are going to secure the most funding, deliver the greatest mission impact, and establish their program relevance for decades to come.”
—Erin McHugh Saif, Chief Product Officer, Microsoft Tech for Social Impact

“Having witnessed the evolution of AI for nonprofits from its earliest stages, it’s clear that Nonprofit AI stands out as an essential resource for organizations navigating this new frontier. This must-read book bridges cutting-edge technology with the unique needs of the sector, offering actionable strategies that prioritize both innovation and ethical stewardship.”
—Salvatore Salpietro, Chief Community Officer, Fundraise Up

"This groundbreaking work by Chappell and Rosenkrans delivers exactly what today's nonprofits need: a practical blueprint for using AI to connect with your community, move them to action, and simplify your operations. It's both visionary and actionable - a must-read for any organization ready to transform how they deliver social impact."
—Tim Sarrantonio, Director of Corporate Brand, Neon One

“As social and economic inequities deepen, nonprofits must leverage AI to drive impact—but for many, its potential remains out of reach. Nonprofit AI cuts through the hype, offering a clear and practical guide to using AI responsibly to address the very inequities it risks exacerbating.”
—Michael Sheldrick, Co-Founder, Global Citizen & Policy Entrepreneur; Author, From Ideas to Impact: A Playbook for Influencing and Implementing Change in a Divided World

"Chappell and Rosenkrans reveal why embracing AI is not just an opportunity but a mission-critical imperative for nonprofits, offering an inspiring vision of AI as a tool for service, not just profit."
—Eric Siegel, CEO of Gooder AI and author of The AI Playbook

"Nonprofit AI is the ultimate guidebook for social impact leaders looking to harness AI ethically and effectively to drive real change in the world."
—Amber Melanie Smith, Social Impact Expert

"From fundraising and donor engagement to program delivery and impact measurement, Nonprofit AI provides practical guidance for mission-driven organizations. Whether you're new to AI or an experienced data scientist, this book makes the field accessible and actionable. Thank you, Scott and Nathan, for your passionate leadership!"
—Angie Stapleton, Executive Director, Research & Prospect Development, Vanderbilt University

"This guide is a game-changer for the nonprofit sector. It doesn’t just talk about AI—it shows how to use it. With clear examples and practical advice, it equips nonprofits to make data-driven decisions, engage stakeholders, and scale their impact like never before."
—Bill TeDesco, CEO and Founder, DonorSearch

"In Nonprofit AI, Nathan and Scott provide the definitive guide for nonprofits to bridge the gap between visionary ideas and actionable AI/ML strategies, empowering organizations of any size to predict donor behavior, personalize engagement, and optimize resources for maximum impact. Drawing on over a decade of experience as AI pioneers in the nonprofit sector, they share real-world case studies, actionable insights, and lessons on change management to help leaders navigate the complexities of innovation responsibly and effectively."
—Jon Thompson, AVP of Philanthropic Strategy & Technology at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

"For anyone who believes in the power of technology to amplify human compassion and drive meaningful change, this book is an essential companion. It’s not just a guide—it’s a call to action for a brighter, more impactful future."
—Tammy Zonker, Award-winning Major Gifts Expert, Keynote Speaker, and Founder of Fundraising Transformed