FundraisingAI

The evolution of AI has made our work easy and quick. But it’s crucial that we are using it for the right reasons. There’s also a dark side to using AI that most people aren’t aware of. That being said, we must research those who develop these technologies and find out how they are created.  Nathan and Scott started today’s conversation by looking back at the fundraising AI’s second global summit and expressing their gratitude to those who attended and those who helped behind the scenes. Moving on, Nathan talks about the urgent need for innovation in the non-profit sector, saying that we must do it mindfully and work together. Nathan and Scott also share their opinions on the evolution of AI and its current status, where you get overwhelming results with a simple conversation with AI models like NotebookLM. They also talk about the dark side of AI, where you can be manipulated without you knowing. Here, Nathan explains that while people have a lot of opportunities to learn different things in different ways with AI, that doesn’t mean it comes without any cost. They also share their opinions on using AI for the right reasons. You have to keep reminding yourself that you are using AI for the right reasons and that it won’t cause harm to others.    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS  [02:05] Synopsis of Fundraising AI's second global summit.   [03:47] Lack of education on technology.  [12:27] Enhancing efficiency and addressing demand with AI.  [13:37] The urgent need for innovation in the nonprofit sector.  [20:07] The evolution of AI.   [23:23] NotebookLM: Note-taking & research assistant developed by Google.   [26:49] The dark side of AI.  [34:00] The importance of keeping in mind the reason for using AI.   [36:03] Embracing technology with a natural state.   [40:51] The variants of flattery.      TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY  Adopt AI technologies to enhance your nonprofit's work, not just to follow trends.  Implement AI thoughtfully, ensuring it aligns with your organization’s values and goals.  Work with others in the sector to share knowledge and strategies.  Different learning opportunities with AI don’t mean that they come without a cost.   Be careful when using AI to learn a point of view.   Raise the question of why you're using this technology.  Evaluate new technologies through mental exercises.   Be cautious of the intentions of AI.   Stay informed about the new technologies and their changes.   It’s safe to have some other sources to verify the information that we are getting from AI models.   RESOURCES  Connect with Scott and Nathan  LinkedIn  Scott - linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans-916b9139/   Nathan - linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/     Donor Perceptions of AI: Key Findings  cheriankoshy.com/aistudy/     Summoning AI: Lessons from The Sorcerer’s Apprentice for a New Age  linkedin.com/pulse/summoning-ai-lessons-from-sorcerers-apprentice-new-nathan-xxnzc/

In today's conversation, Cherian Koshy reflects on the evolution of technology, transparency, and the role of AI in nonprofit fundraising. Starting with personal stories, Cherian and Nathan discuss the early technology adoption in their careers and the transformative "Aha" moments that shaped their understanding of tech innovation. Cherian highlights the potential of AI, sharing his reaction to Notebook LM's audio file generation and exploring the implications of AI-generated content. The conversation pivots to transparency, with Cherian stressing the importance of nonprofits being open about their AI use, especially when handling donor data. He emphasizes that trust is a cornerstone for donor relationships, reinforced by insights from a recent survey showing donors prioritize transparency and are increasingly comfortable with AI, though privacy concerns remain. Wrapping up, both speakers emphasize the need for ongoing research, collaboration, and sector-wide transparency to build trust and responsibly integrate AI into nonprofit strategies. HIGHLIGHTS [00:55] Fundraising AI Summit Highlights [06:03] Notebook LM and Its Implications [09:23] Hidden Influences in Technology [15:37] Innovative Survey Techniques [19:08] Donor Perspectives on AI [23:58] The Role of Transparency in AI Use [29:46] Survey Findings and Donor Concerns [31:55] Report on Healthcare Philanthropy [33:02] Future Directions TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Explore AI for synthesizing content and demos. Identify key tech moments to boost innovation. Ensure AI use is clear and openly communicated. Maintain trust by combining AI and human interaction. Ask donors directly about their AI concerns. Customize approaches for different donor segments. Proactively disclose AI usage to build donor confidence. Explore donor insights for tailored approaches. Be cautious about AI's influence. Engage in sector-wide collaboration for AI research. RESOURCES Connect with Cherian Koshy: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cheriankoshy/ Mentioned in the episode: Donor Perceptions of AI Study: cheriankoshy.com/aistudy/ Chronicle of Philanthropy: Donor Perceptions of AI: philanthropy.com/article/how-do-donors-feel-about-a-i-this-new-study-asks Connect with Nathan and Scott:  LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/  LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans  Website: fundraising.ai/

Devi Thomas, named as one of the 2023 Social Impact Pioneers and Top Women in Communications, leads the Nonprofit Community at Microsoft Philanthropies. She engages wit h nonprofits to address community challenges through AI and technology, empowering them to create impactful solutions and drive social change. On the other hand, Erin McHugh Saif is the Chief Product Officer at Microsoft Tech for Social Impact, with prior experience at Salesforce and TIBCO. She focuses on making technology accessible for nonprofit organizations, emphasizing innovation and affordability. Starting the conversation, Devi shares her enthusiasm for training individuals in AI and technology, highlighting the economic opportunities AI brings and the necessity of integrating people into the digital realm. She reflects on her journey, expressing gratitude for working with AI and her commitment to the nonprofit sector. Erin also details her work connecting Microsoft's resources with global nonprofit organizations. She emphasizes the importance of affordability and accessibility in technology for nonprofits, discussing her transition from the tech industry to the Tech for Social Impact team. She underscores the necessity of human involvement in change management and the role of well-designed software in supporting nonprofit missions. The conversation also delves into the guests' paths to the nonprofit sector, revealing their diverse backgrounds and the transferable skills that can bridge corporate and nonprofit work. They highlight the scrappiness of the nonprofit sector and its innovation potential. Addressing AI adoption in nonprofits, Devi and Erin discuss the challenges organizations face, including skepticism, lack of understanding, and distrust, particularly in the US and Western Europe. They emphasize the need for training and exposure to foster trust in AI technologies. When asked for advice for nonprofit leaders hesitant about AI, Erin suggests starting small and fostering a culture of experimentation, while Devi stresses the importance of ethical governance in AI use and adopting a learning mindset. Finally, they discuss Microsoft's global support for nonprofits, including partnerships aimed at upskilling individuals in AI, particularly in developing countries, showcasing the impact of these initiatives through personal stories. Both speakers reaffirm Microsoft's commitment to making technology accessible and beneficial for nonprofits worldwide. HIGHLIGHTS [03:52] Devi's Role at Microsoft [05:57] Erin's Role and Microsoft's Tech for Social Impact [08:25] Devi's Path to the Nonprofit Sector [11:18] Erin's Journey to the Nonprofit Sector [15:07] AI and Nonprofit Adoption [28:03] Advice for Nonprofit Leaders [34:36] Lessons from the Corporate World [38:21] Global Support for Nonprofits  TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY  Explore tools and platforms designed specifically for nonprofits. Work with vendors who prioritize making technology accessible for nonprofits. Utilize skills from the corporate sector to enhance nonprofit agility and decision-making. Ensure clean and accurate data to maximize AI potential and operational efficiencies. Invest in training to overcome skepticism and build trust in AI tools among staff. Experiment with AI solutions in manageable increments to foster a culture of innovation. Develop frameworks to ensure responsible and ethical use of AI. Foster an environment where continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies are valued. Regularly assess and discontinue programs that are not yielding results. Collaborate with organizations and programs focusing on AI upskilling, especially in developing regions. Resources:  Connect with Erin and Devi: Erin McHugh Saif: linkedin.com/in/erinmchughsaif/ Devi Thomas: linkedin.com/in/devi-thomas/ Connect with Nathan and Scott:  LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/  LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans  Website: fundraising.ai/

Tim Lockie is the CEO of The Human Stack, an organization dedicated to helping nonprofits and teams integrate technology, including AI, into their workflows. With a background in nonprofit work and tech implementation, Tim is passionate about making technology accessible and practical, especially in data-driven decision-making and fundraising.   In this episode, Tim shares the origin and development of the "Human Stack," a concept born from his nonprofit background and experience implementing Salesforce in 2009. Noticing that only 5% of organizations effectively use data for decision-making, Tim coined the term "Human Stack" to describe the collaborative nature of human teams, mirroring how tech stacks work together.  Tim recounts the launch of the Human Stack in 2022 after rebranding his previous firm, initially hesitant about incorporating AI. However, later, he recognized the importance of AI and created courses to help organizations embrace technology, including AI for fundraising. He elaborates on his "AI for Anyone" course, designed to make AI accessible and enjoyable, using a "trampoline model" to ease users into the experience.  Tim explains how the ethos of responsible AI, influenced by the fundraising AI framework, shapes his training, helping nonprofits practically integrate AI. As the episode progresses, Tim shares his excitement for the upcoming fundraising AI summit and the release of his new AI Playbook, a course aimed at helping teams leverage AI in their workflows. Throughout, the conversation emphasizes the shared goal of making AI a force for good, especially in the nonprofit sector.     HIGHLIGHTS [02:06] Origin Story of the Human Stack   [09:09] AI for Anyone and Its Evolution   [20:54] AI for Anyone Course Details   [25:19] Integration of Fundraising AI Ethos   [26:19] Thoughts on Upcoming Summit and Tim's AI Playbook  TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY  Help team members see themselves as AI users, regardless of their experience level.  Join the 5% of organizations using data to drive decisions—start small with key metrics.  Overcome reluctance; AI can enhance both human and organizational efficiency.  Educate your team on AI and technology to reduce fear and foster adoption.  Use engaging models to make AI learning enjoyable.  Help team members see themselves as AI users, regardless of their experience level.  Regularly collect feedback to ensure your courses or tools are user-friendly.  Build an ethos of responsible AI by integrating it into your training programs.  Participate in AI-focused summits or workshops to stay connected with innovations.  Help teams integrate AI in everyday workflows with practical, leader-oriented guides.  Resources:  Connect with Tim:  Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/tlockie/    Mentioned in the episode:  AI for Anyone partner page: hubs.ly/Q02QRRVs0  Connect with Nathan and Scott:  LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/  LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans  Website: fundraising.ai/

This episode explores the trade-offs between privacy and convenience, the promise of AI in enhancing work-life balance, and the ethical challenges of automation!  During today's conversation, Scott and Nathan discuss various AI topics, starting with LinkedIn's new feature that allows training AI on user data, sparking a discussion on privacy versus convenience. They then explore Salesforce's Agent Force and the balance between automation and human interaction, particularly in fundraising. Nathan raises concerns about acceleration burnout due to AI, while Scott reflects on using AI to save time. However, they question whether AI enhances human interactions or increases efficiency.  Moreover, Scott shares insights from Jensen Huang on tech growth beyond Moore's Law, and they discuss AI's future, including the potential of GPT-401 and tools for decision-making. The conversation also touches on massive AI investments like Microsoft's Stargate project and Oprah Winfrey's AI special, stressing the need for empathy and strategic adoption of AI in society.   [00:41] Introduction and Personal Updates  [02:51] Fundraising AI Summit is 12 Days Away!  [06:10] LinkedIn's AI Data Collection, Salesforce's Agent Force, and More  [11:35] Acceleration Burnout and AI's Role in Work-Life Balance  [16:34] Moore's Law and the Future of AI  [23:27] GPT-401 and Its Implications  [27:10] AI Tools and Predictive Models  [32:10] Scale and Investment in AI  [34:28] Oprah Winfrey's AI Special and Its Implications  [35:52] Conclusion and Upcoming Podcast  TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY  Use AI-powered Agent Force to automate tasks and save time for more meaningful work.  Use AI in fundraising, but maintain a personal touch to avoid over-automation.  Set clear boundaries and avoid overloading yourself with tasks when AI saves time.  Ensure AI enhances human interactions, not replaces them, to keep a human-centric approach.  Follow exponential tech growth and new AI models like GPT-401 to stay ahead.  Explore tools like Forecast.safe.ai to predict outcomes and improve decision-making.  Align AI adoption with specific goals to boost productivity and avoid wasting resources.  Track large-scale AI projects like Microsoft's Stargate to understand future AI potential.  Focus on the human side of AI, ensuring it addresses job loss concerns and societal impacts.  Periodically check and update your privacy settings on AI-driven platforms to ensure they align with your preferences.  RESOURCES Connect with Nathan and Scott:  LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/  LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans  Website: fundraising.ai/    Mentioned in the episode:  OpenAI unveils o1 models  Upgraded Alexa to be powered by Claude  Prediction AI: https://forecast.safe.ai  Prediction AI Example: https://forecast.safe.ai/?id=66ec2aa41bcc67996eee8240  Perplexity coming under fire  Environmental Impact of AI  Bill Gates's big bet on Nuclear power

Today's Guest, Randima Fernando, is a prominent figure at the crossroads of technology, ethics, and social good. As a Co-Founder and former Executive Director of the Center for Humane Technology (CHT), he played a crucial role in advancing the global conversation on the ethics of technology. CHT's work, including its pivotal role in the Emmy-winning documentary "The Social Dilemma," has reached over 100 million viewers across 190 countries, highlighting the need for more humane technology practices. Randima began his career at NVIDIA, leading award-winning projects and authoring three #1-ranked books on 3D graphics. He also helped establish the NVIDIA Foundation as a founding Board Member. Transitioning to the nonprofit sector, Randima served as the founding Executive Director of Mindful Schools, an organization dedicated to teaching mindfulness to millions of children and educators worldwide. Moreover, born in Sri Lanka, Randima's early exposure to meditation from his mother and programming from his father laid the foundation for his diverse career. During today's conversation, Randima addresses the rapid pace of development, focusing on challenges like accuracy, transparency, and the concentration of power among a few companies. He warns of potential consequences for democracy and the environment without proper regulation. Furthermore, he argues that nonprofits play a vital role in addressing AI's ethical and social implications, especially in supporting those affected by automation. Finally, Randima provides practical advice for nonprofits to stay informed about AI. He encourages them to assign individuals to track developments, collaborate, and experiment with ways to mitigate AI's impact on society. Also, he stresses the importance of action, pushing nonprofits to integrate AI thoughtfully into their missions. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [00:32] Meet Randima from CHT [02:49] Randima's Interest in Technology [05:00] Transition to Nonprofit Work [08:21] Impact of CHT and Media Influence [14:03] Current State and Future of AI [18:24] Role of Nonprofits in Addressing AI Challenges [25:33] Practical Tips for Nonprofits TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Incorporate mindfulness practices to maintain focus and well-being. Build or strengthen teams that share a clear, unified mission. Assign someone to monitor AI trends relevant to your organization. Take an iterative, experimental approach to new tech challenges. Learn about the misaligned incentives in social platforms. Stay informed about how AI impacts your sector and adjust accordingly. Use media like "The Social Dilemma" to educate others. Share AI best practices and encourage teamwork. Advocate for transparency, regulation, and responsible AI use. Don't wait; start addressing AI's societal and ethical effects now. Resources: Connect with Randima : Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/prfernando/ Mentioned in the episode: Center for Humane Technology: Website: humanetech.com/ Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/the-center-for-humane-technology Your Undivided Attention Podcast: humanetech.com/podcast The AI Dilemma: youtube.com/watch?v=xoVJKj8lcNQ The Social Dilemma: netflix.com/title/81254224

This episode explores the double-edged nature of AI, reflecting on its power to accelerate life while emphasizing the importance of conscious, thoughtful AI use to preserve human values. Meet Kelly Hecht, an executive advisor at Amazon Web Services (AWS), who focuses on the global healthcare and nonprofit sectors. She is dedicated to helping customers harness technology to drive mission impact and promote innovation in their industries. During today's conversation, Kelly reflects on the growing impact of AI on daily life. She shares the pressure of navigating an increasingly fast-paced world due to AI, likening it to being on a never-ending hamster wheel. Kelly stresses the importance of being conscious and deliberate in integrating AI into life to prevent feeling overwhelmed. She also emphasizes the value of learning from past technological shifts to understand AI's current effects. In discussing connection and information overload, Kelly agrees with Nathan on the overwhelming nature of constant AI-driven interaction. She mentions how AI algorithms, though applicable, contribute to the competition for attention and connection, which can sometimes be mentally taxing. AI's role in amplifying information overload has directly affected her mental health, leading to an internal struggle to find balance. Moreover, Kelly strongly advocates for intentionality and curiosity in AI usage. She talks about embracing uncertainty and the benefits of being open-minded about AI's evolving role. By cultivating curiosity, Kelly believes individuals can stay ahead without losing essential human qualities like empathy and strategic thinking. She also highlights the need to balance AI-driven efficiency and human values. Setting boundaries, maintaining awareness, and using AI consciously are crucial to ensuring it enhances life rather than dominates it. Kelly underscores the role of leadership in fostering a culture of curiosity and adaptability, especially in an AI-driven world. Finally, she shares practical advice on how to use AI intentionally, recommending that people set daily checkpoints to reflect on AI's role in their day and use the time saved for meaningful purposes. Kelly stresses the importance of respect and thoughtfulness in AI use, ensuring they align with personal and professional goals. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [00:41] Episode Introduction – Meet Kelly! [05:31] The Impact of AI on Human Life [09:03] Rapid Pace of AI and Information Overload [15:09] Intentionality and Curiosity in AI Use [32:36] Practical Tips for Using AI with Intentionality TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY 1.      Take regular breaks to evaluate AI's impact on your tasks. 2.      Use tools to filter and prioritize important info. 3.      Stay open to learning new AI trends, but don't rush. 4.      Define when and how to use AI at work or home. 5.      Use AI to serve your goals, not overwhelm them. 6.      Use automation only where it adds real value. 7.      Use AI to enhance, not replace, human connections. 8.      Save time with AI but reinvest it in meaningful ways. 9.      Choose AI tools that align with your values. 10.  Be willing to change how you use AI as it evolves. Resources: Connect with Kelly: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kelleyhecht/ Mentioned in the episode: The Curiosity Code: Unlocking Your Superpower in the AI Age: linkedin.com/pulse/curiosity-code-unlocking-your-superpower-ai-age-Nathan Connect with Nathan and Scott: LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans Website: fundraising.ai

Revolutionize the donation process, making it smarter, more efficient, and deeply personalized, all while ensuring transparency and trust within the nonprofit sector!  This episode features Salvatore Salpietro, the Chief Community Officer at FundraiseUp, a tech company that enhances charitable giving by optimizing donation processes. Their platform helps nonprofits boost engagement and revenue through improved conversion rates, modern payment options, and personalized donor experiences. Moreover, Fundraise Up partners with global organizations like UNICEF USA and The Salvation Army UK.  Sal begins today's conversation by sharing his role in fostering community engagement and recounts his transition from the tech industry to the nonprofit sector. Sal narrates the origin story of Fundraise Up, rooted in the founders' frustration with complex donation processes, which led them to create a more user-friendly and AI-powered platform that optimizes donor experiences at scale.  The discussion moves to the challenges and benefits of AI in fundraising, where Sal and the hosts, Nathan and Scott, emphasize the importance of making donations seamless to prevent donor abandonment. They explore how AI enhances efficiency and personalization in fundraising while addressing ethical concerns surrounding AI use in the nonprofit sector. Sal explains Fundraise Up's commitment to transparency, privacy, and ethical practices, ensuring their AI models are built on anonymous data to avoid bias.  Looking ahead, Sal predicts that AI will revolutionize nonprofit operations by creating efficiencies and improving outcomes rather than transforming the sector entirely. He also mentions the upcoming Fundraising AI Global Summit, where he will present unexpected AI outcomes that drive impact.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [03:13] Fundraise Up's Origin Story and Mission  [05:09] Sal's Journey to Fundraise Up  [07:56] Use of AI in Fundraising  [23:21] Ethics, Privacy, and Transparency in AI Use  [26:32] Future of AI in the Nonprofit Sector  [34:37] Upcoming Fundraising AI Global Summit   Connect with Salvatore: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/salvatoresalpietro/ Website: fundraiseup.com Connect with Nathan and Scott: LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans Website: fundraising.ai

Today's episode delves into the evolving landscape of AI adoption within the nonprofit sector, revealing how AI is revolutionizing fundraising by turning data into actionable insights.  Nathan and Scott kick off today's conversation by discussing the growing presence of AI at industry conferences, such as APRA-PD 2024, where the conversation has shifted from theory to practical applications and success stories. They underscore the significance of AI in prospect development while highlighting a noticeable reduction in hesitancy towards predictive AI—though concerns about generative AI persist.  The duo also tackles barriers to AI adoption, such as fears of job replacement and skepticism about AI's accuracy. Through real-world examples, they illustrate how AI can streamline tasks like prospect research, freeing up valuable time for strategic initiatives.  Scott and Nathan emphasize the importance of starting with clear AI use cases sharing case studies that showcase the tangible benefits of AI in the sector. They also discuss the impact of tools like xAI and Grok AI, balancing the potential for innovation with the need for transparency and accountability in AI-generated content.  Practical tips abound in this episode, from creating content folders to training AI tools to developing style guides that ensure consistency. The conversation concludes with a call to action for nonprofits to adopt AI proactively and responsibly, setting the stage for transformative change in the sector.  EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [01:18] AI Adoption in the Nonprofit Sector  [04:48] Barriers to AI Adoption in Prospect Development   [09:12] Case Studies and Practical AI Applications   [14:19] AI Tools and Their Impact on Nonprofits   [22:28] Practical Tips for AI Adoption in Nonprofits   Connect with Nathan and Scott: LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans Website: fundraising.ai

In a landscape where AI revolutionizes nonprofit fundraising, this episode highlights its role as a game changer, blending advanced technology with the human touch! Meet Brittany Shaff, the Founder and CEO of Shaff Fundraising Group, a consultancy specializing in strategic philanthropy and engagement management. With twenty years of experience across nonprofit and corporate sectors, Brittany excels in fundraising, marketing, and analytics. Her firm partners with nonprofits, independent schools, higher education institutions, and healthcare organizations to provide personalized consulting that drives successful fundraising and engagement. During today's conversation, Brittany explores how AI, particularly generative and predictive models, transforms how nonprofits engage with donors, personalize content, and optimize their strategies. She discusses the balance between leveraging AI and maintaining the human touch in nonprofit communications, emphasizing that AI should enhance, not replace, organizations' core mission and vision. Brittany also addresses the importance of content marketing, differentiating it from brand and product marketing, and highlights how AI can be a powerful tool for creating impactful, personalized messaging at scale. She shares insights on the need for nonprofits to adapt and embrace AI tools while maintaining a genuine connection with their audience. Throughout the conversation, Brittany underscores that success in the nonprofit sector isn't about outdoing others but advancing your mission and achieving meaningful growth. She also reflects on her fascination with new AI platforms and tools, sharing how staying informed about technological advancements fuels her passion for innovation in the sector. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [04:50] AI as a Game Changer [08:06] The Future of Content Marketing and Nonprofit Engagement [16:19] Essential Steps for Leveraging AI in Nonprofit Engagement [21:20] Defining and Elevating Content Marketing with AI [23:21] Balancing AI with Humanity [24:42] Generative AI as the New Heartbeat of Engagement and Innovation [26:38] Collaboration Over Competition in Nonprofit AI Integration [28:00] Harnessing AI Tools TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Begin integrating AI tools in your nonprofit operations to stay competitive. If needed, consult with AI and marketing experts to maximize effectiveness. Evaluate current content to understand what resonates with your audience. Use AI to create personalized messaging at scale for greater impact. Ensure AI enhances but doesn't replace personal engagement. Optimize content for both search engines and AI-driven platforms. Regularly research emerging AI tools for potential benefits. Use AI for improved data analysis and understanding of donor behavior. Align AI strategies with your nonprofit's core mission and vision. Track the effectiveness of AI tools and adjust strategies based on results. Resources: Connect with Brittany: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brittany-n-shaff-bcre-cfre/ Website: shafffundraisinggroup.com/ Mentioned in the episode: The Evolution of Search: From SEO to Generative Engine Optimization for Nonprofits - A 10-Step Implementation Guide: shafffundraisinggroup.com/post/the-evolution-of-search-from-seo-to-generative-engine-optimization-for-nonprofits-a-10-step-imple

Embrace a future where AI reshapes nonprofit strategies with adaptability and strategic insight!  In today's episode, Nathan and Scott explore how tools like ChatGPT have evolved over the past 18 months, becoming integral in goal setting and efficiency. With AI now capable of predicting human behavior with 85% accuracy, Nathan and Scott highlight the significance of these advancements, emphasizing the potential to save up to 50% of staff time in organizations.  The discussion includes insights from Conor Grennan's study, showcasing AI's remarkable ability to understand and forecast human actions. They contrast this with earlier technologies like Clippy, noting how modern Gen AI offers a much more advanced and nuanced approach. The episode also tackles ethical considerations, addressing concerns about AI's power to predict and influence opinions with up to 87% accuracy.  Nathan and Scott announce their upcoming book on AI for nonprofits, set to provide a thorough guide for responsible AI use. They reflect on the digital divide and the importance of preparing organizations for AI integration. The episode further explores prompt engineering and conversational AI, recommending resources like Allie Miller's LinkedIn course.  Concluding with a focus on change management, Nathan and Scott discuss the necessity for adaptability and strategic planning in the nonprofit sector to leverage AI effectively. Their conversation underscores the need for continuous learning and curiosity to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.  EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [01:37] From Novelty to Necessity: The Evolution of GPT in Predicting Human Behavior  [04:51] How GPTs are Redefining AI and Human Behavior Prediction  [08:24] Complexities of Human Interaction and Autonomous Technology  [13:41] AI for Nonprofits: From Skepticism to Strategic Implementation   [18:01] Moving Nonprofits from Conviction to Strategic Integration  [21:47] AI Expertise and Disillusionment  [25:02] AI Evolution and the Role of Prompt Engineering  [28:58] Future with Strategic Adaptability and Innovation  TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY  Aim to save 50% of staff time using AI tools.  Use AI's 85% accuracy in predicting behavior to enhance strategies.  Utilize Gen AI for personalized responses and context understanding.  Consider the ethical impacts of AI in predicting and manipulating behavior.  Read upcoming books on AI for nonprofits for comprehensive insights.  Be aware of and plan for disparities in AI adoption within the nonprofit sector.  Take courses like Allie Miller's on prompt engineering to enhance your skills.  Invest in voice assistants and chatbots for better interaction and accuracy.  Develop a strategic roadmap for AI integration that aligns with organizational values.  Foster agility and adaptability in your workforce to keep pace with AI advancements.  Resources:  Connect with Nathan and Scott:  LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/  LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans  Website: fundraising.ai/    Mentioned in the episode:  Allie K MIller's Linkedin Learning AI Course  ChatGPT4 accurately predicts human behavior in social experiments at 85%, across genders, races, and political affiliations.  AI Adoption Is Driving Real Top - And Bottom-Line Impact For Enterprises (Gartner)  Gen AI is hitting a trough of disillusionment (Gartner Hype Cycle)  A new AI Pendant created to combat loneliness  AI-first organizations  More departures at OpenAI  OpenAI's GPT-5 is coming out soon. Here's what to expect.

In this episode of the FundraisingAI podcast, hosts Nathan Chappell and Scott Rosenkrans welcome Lily Loughridge, a rising senior at Stanford University, who brings a unique perspective from her studies in computer science and psychology. The discussion navigates the dynamic landscape of artificial intelligence and its implications for the global fundraising sector, addressing both the excitement and apprehension that come with rapid technological advancements.  Lily Loughridge stands out not only for her academic achievements but also for her entrepreneurial spirit. She co-founded Stanford Women in Technology Entrepreneurship and has been an active advocate for female founders. Her experiences range from leading a tutoring charity to interning with Liberty Global's Technology Ventures arm, focusing on AI and energy demands. This diverse background gives her a well-rounded view on how AI intersects with various fields and the importance of responsible AI governance.  Listeners will gain valuable insights into the ethical considerations and potential unintended consequences of AI, especially in education and nonprofit sectors. Lily shares personal anecdotes and examples, such as AI's role in autonomous vehicles, skincare startups, and even behavioral psychology research with monkeys. This episode is a treasure trove of information for anyone interested in how AI can be harnessed for good while maintaining a balance with human values.  EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS  [06:23] Future of Careers with AI – Lily shares her insights on how the career landscape looks like as a senior at Stanford.  [10:35] Impact of AI on Education – How the impact of AI differs in computer science versus psychology and how the academia is responding to the use of AI.  [13:41] Symbolic Systems Major and Its Importance  [16:19] AI in Politics: The Case of AI Steve and AI in democracy and decision making.  [21:20] How the potential career paths for undergraduates have changed due to the influence of AI tools.  [23:27] Lily shares her perspective on the possibility of new career paths being created as a result of AI.  [26:41] Lily’s favorite AI tools  [34:29] Stanford Women in Tech Entrepreneurship – Lily shares the story behind starting Stanford Women in Tech Entrepreneurship and the results gained by the community.  RESOURCES  Connect with Lily  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lily-loughridge  Stanford Women in Tech Entrepreneurship: www.swite.org    Connect with Nathan and Scott:  LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell  LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans  Website: fundraising.ai

In this riveting episode, Nathan and Scott dive deep into the provocative topic of autonomous fundraising and its potential to reshape the nonprofit sector. They explore the controversial idea of replacing human fundraisers with AI-driven bots, highlighting the pros and cons with compelling arguments and real-world examples!  The conversation starts with a discussion about the persuasive power of AI, referencing studies showing AI's superior ability to influence and engage compared to humans. Nathan and Scott then debate the implications of this for fundraising, where bots could outpace humans in efficiency and reach. They touch on the economic advantages, such as reduced costs and the ability to manage larger donor pools, while acknowledging the risks of donor manipulation and the erosion of trust.  The episode also tackles the crucial question: should we prioritize revenue over relationships? Nathan and Scott further argue that although AI can mimic empathy and build rapport, it lacks genuine human connection for long-term donor retention and trust. They discuss the dangers of AI going awry, from delivering harmful advice to damaging the fabric of human-centered philanthropy.  Drawing from their extensive experience and insights, Nathan and Scott emphasize the importance of maintaining a human-centric approach to fundraising. They explore how the misuse of AI could contribute to the ongoing generosity crisis and the loneliness epidemic, underscoring the need for thoughtful integration of technology in the sector.  EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [02:15] The Rise of Autonomous Fundraising: Pros, Cons, and Future Implications  [04:28] The Ethics and Efficiency of Autonomous Fundraising  [12:33] AI in Fundraising: Ethical Considerations, Human-Centric Approaches, and the Future of Philanthropy  [16:21] Should AI Replace Human Fundraisers?  [20:03] The Ethical and Practical Dilemmas of Autonomous Fundraising  [25:51] Revenue Over Relationships: The Risks of Replacing Human Fundraisers with AI  [29:56] Innovation vs. Human Connection – A Debate on the Future of Giving  Connect with Nathan and Scott: LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans Website: fundraising.ai Mentioned in the episode:  The Coming Wave: Technology, Power, and the Twenty-first Century's Greatest Dilemma: amazon.com/Coming-Wave-Technology-Twenty-first-Centurys

Some people struggle with things that you may find difficult to believe. Furniture poverty is one of the hidden struggles people face in the USA and Canada. There are a considerable number of people who can barely afford furniture because it's the third most expensive thing people have to spend their money on. There are a lot of organizations that address this invisible struggle among people, and Furniture Bank is one of them. Furniture Bank is a charitable organization founded in 1998 whose mission is to end furniture poverty. As a registered charity and a social enterprise, Furniture Bank redistributes gently used furniture and housewares from community donors to families and individuals who are facing furniture poverty. Collaborating with over 150 community agencies, Furniture Bank helps economically vulnerable people such as women and children leaving shelters, the formerly homeless, Indigenous peoples, those dealing with mental health issues, newcomers, refugees, and many others. They help 4000 families every year to receive the goods they need to build the homes they need. Dan Kershaw is the executive director at Furniture Bank. He first started working with startups, where he learned to get used to constantly changing. He joined the nonprofit sector, where, according to him, he started a career with meaning. Dan joined us today to talk about how generative AI can help improve the work of charitable organizations. Starting the conversation, Dan explains what a furniture bank is and how an organization like that helps people who struggle with a lack of furniture, along with the social, physical, and mental damages that can happen because of this hidden difficulty. Then Dan explains that AI, as of now, cannot do all the work that is related to furniture but can create a lot of opportunities that they've never had before in this sector. He then talks about how AI can be taught to listen to different stories behind donated furniture and help them navigate the process because sometimes furniture holds sentimental value for people. AI isn't here to give you the perfect solution immediately. It's here to help you achieve a great outcome. In this phase of the conversation, Dan shares his thoughts on ethics and policies related to generative AI in different organizations. Furthermore, Dan explains how hard it is to find donors if a charity organization wants to invent an AI internally. He also recommends people use free generative AI models to ask what they know about the issues they are trying to solve as an organization. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [01.58] Dan's journey to Furniture Bank. [06.36] Social, physical, and mental damages caused by the lack of furnishings. [08.16] Dan explains how the Furniture Bank Operates. [12.50] Furniture Bank's social enterprise model. [14.00] Early stages of digital development at the Furniture Bank. [18.29] How can AI be trained to listen to different sentimental moments related to furniture and help people with their donations? [25.47] Generative AI, ethics, and company policies. [31.04] Dan talks about the Furniture Bank's annual campaign in 2022. [36.50] Thought experiment with AI. Resources: Connect with Dan LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/dankershaw/ Website - furniturebank.org/ Connect with Nathan and Scott: LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans Website: fundraising.ai

Meet Woodrow Rosenbaum, the visionary Chief Data Officer behind GivingTuesday's global impact. With a robust background in market dynamics and audience transformation, Woodrow is in charge of understanding and promoting generosity worldwide. At the helm of the GivingTuesday Data Commons, he spearheads collaborative efforts across over 300 organizations and data teams in 50 countries. His pioneering research on individual giving behaviors informs strategic decisions and drives innovation in nonprofit data infrastructure. Beyond his role at GivingTuesday, Woodrow plays a pivotal role in shaping global philanthropy through his leadership on the Generosity Commission Research Task Force and as former Co-Chair of Global Impact Canada’s Board of Directors. His insights into technology and public policy, as a previous Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center, underscore his commitment to leveraging data for social good. Starting today's conversation, Woodrow shares his journey from commercial marketing to leading data-driven initiatives at GivingTuesday, highlighting the evolution and impact of the Data Commons. He explains how GivingTuesday has revolutionized donor acquisition and retention and how collective giving fosters a sense of community and higher engagement. Moreover, Woodrow discusses the critical role of generosity in a thriving civil society, emphasizing the importance of authentic engagement in building trust within the nonprofit sector. Delving deeper, Woodrow explores the AI Readiness Survey insights, revealing the current state of AI adoption among nonprofits and the challenges they face. He underscores the need for improved data practices and discusses the exciting potential of AI-driven solutions explicitly tailored to nonprofit needs. Woodrow then shifts to discuss the innovative tools and strategies being piloted to drive sector-specific innovation. He highlights GivingTuesday's role as a catalyst for technological adoption and experimentation and shares insights into the collaborative successes of the Fundraising.AI community. Through these efforts, Woodrow emphasizes the significance of leadership and open co-creation in achieving remarkable outcomes. Episode Highlights [01:35] Woodrow's Role at GivingTuesday [03:08] Applying Systems Thinking from Commercial Marketing to Nonprofit Data Strategies [04:15] Solving Measurement Challenges for GivingTuesday and Elevating Nonprofit Data Infrastructure [06:29] The Unexpected Impact of GivingTuesday on Donor Retention and the Broader Generosity Landscape [09:50] The Crucial Role of Generosity: Quantifying and Elevating Community Support within Civil Society [12:34] Balancing New Practices and Technology to Strengthen the Nonprofit Sector [14:47] The Power of Collective Action: How GivingTuesday's Unique Approach Drives Higher Engagement and Donor Retention [18:37] The Human Element in Effective Workplace Giving [19:27] Building Trust Through Authentic Engagement [22:00] Shifting the Mindset: Embracing Abundance and Integrated Storytelling in the Nonprofit Sector [26:43] AI Readiness in Nonprofits: Embracing Innovation and Overcoming Challenges for Sector-Specific Solutions [30:57] Leveraging AI to Enhance Nonprofit Data Practices [32:30] Driving Sector-Specific Innovation and Adoption through GivingTuesday [36:41] Transforming Fundraising with AI: Celebrating Collaborative Success and Leadership in Innovation Resources: Connect with Woodrow Rosenbaum: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/woodrowrosenbaum/ Website: givingtuesday.org Mentioned in the episode: GivingTuesday Data Commons: givingtuesday.org/data-commons/ Connect with Nathan and Scott: LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans Website: fundraising.ai