Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s a present-day necessity, and hesitation to embrace AI could cost nonprofit organizations across the country dearly.
Let’s be clear: organizations that fail to integrate AI thoughtfully will not fare well in the coming years.
Their competitors—whether other nonprofits, advocacy groups, or competitive for-profit organizations—are already using AI to streamline operations, boost engagement, and make smarter strategic decisions. Ignoring AI isn’t just about technology resistance; it’s about losing relevance, market share, and competitive advantage.
About IOM
This article is brought to you by Institute for Organization Management, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s professional development program for nonprofit executives.
AI Is a Force Multiplier to Be Embraced at All Levels
One of the biggest mistakes a leader can make is treating AI as just an IT issue. The use of AI within any organization deserves its own review and thought regarding the right and appropriate way to implement its use. Therefore, any AI strategy must be built within organizations all the way from the CEO to the rank-and-file staff.
If a nonprofit has a small staff, AI is even more critical. It can serve as a force multiplier, allowing organizations to accomplish more with fewer resources, making you competitive with larger organizations. According to the U.S. Chamber, 40 percent of small businesses are using generative AI, and of those businesses, they are more likely than their competitors who are not to experience higher sales, profits, and hiring.
AI as a Tool, Not a Threat
Although AI has many advantages, like any other technological tool, there can be downsides. That’s why responsible AI policies are essential, and resources like the NIST Risk Management Framework are helpful in establishing trust. The goal is not to avoid AI, but to use it ethically and effectively.
AI Tools That Can Transform Nonprofits
To truly leverage AI’s potential, nonprofits must embrace multimodal tools that enhance efficiency, engagement, and decision-making. Nonprofits have the option to use generative tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, Llama, and Copilot.
Additionally, here are some currently underutilized AI-powered platforms worth considering as well:
1. AI-Powered CRM & Member Engagement
HubSpot AI – Automates email responses, improves lead management, and provides predictive analytics to enhance member engagement.
Pro Tip: AI-generated interactions should be personalized to avoid sounding robotic.
Use Case: Automate member follow-ups, analyze engagement trends, and personalize outreach.
2. AI-Driven Content Creation & Marketing
Jasper – Generates blogs, social media posts, and email copy with AI-powered writing.
Pro Tip: Ensure AI-generated content aligns with brand voice and augments human creativity.
Use Case: Save time on content while maintaining a professional and engaging look.
Canva AI – AI-powered design and image generation for marketing materials.
Pro Tip: AI-generated graphics should be reviewed for consistency with branding.
Use Case: Quickly create professional marketing materials.
3. AI Notetakers & Meeting Transcriptions
Otter.AI & Read.AI – Record and transcribe meetings automatically, improving documentation and accessibility.
Pro Tip: Disclose AI notetaking in meetings, make sure your policies are in compliance with privacy law, and avoid storing sensitive discussions longer than necessary.
Use Case: Improve board meeting documentation and accessibility.
4. AI for Automation & Member Support
Zapier AI – Automates workflows between different software platforms, reducing manual work.
Pro Tip: AI automation should be regularly reviewed to prevent errors in workflows.
Use Case: Reduce administrative tasks by automating processes across platforms.
Drift AI Chatbots – AI-powered chatbots to handle member FAQs and inquiries 24/7.
Pro Tip: AI chatbots should be programmed to escalate complex issues to humans.
Use Case: Provide instant member support and free up staff for high-value tasks.
5. AI for Insights & Strategic Planning
Tableau AI – AI-driven data visualization and predictive analytics.
Pro Tip: AI-generated insights should always be reviewed by human decision-makers.
Use Case: Identify trends in member engagement and optimize operations.
6. AI-Powered Presentation & Visual Storytelling
Beautiful.ai – AI-powered presentation software that automates slide design for professional, visually compelling decks.
Pro Tip: AI-generated slides should be reviewed for accuracy and brand consistency.
Use Case: Quickly create visually compelling presentations for board meetings, sponsorship pitches, and training sessions. It gives you an amazing start to a presentation!
7. Multimodal AI & Wearable Tech
Multimodal AI Devices – AI-powered wearables and smart devices are increasingly integrating real-time translation, data overlays, and enhanced accessibility features to improve user experience.
Pro Tip: Organizations should evaluate data security, privacy implications, and ensure proper training before full adoption.
Use Case: Support multilingual events, improve accessibility for members with disabilities, and enhance engagement through AI-powered insights in real time.
AI Is a Competitive Advantage—If Used Thoughtfully
Adopting AI is not about replacing human intelligence; it’s about enhancing it. AI allows nonprofits to:
- Automate routine tasks and free up staff for high-impact work.
- Provide data-driven insights for better strategic planning.
- Engage members with personalized communication at scale.
- Stay competitive in a digital-first world where other organizations are already leveraging AI.
- Focus more resources on the nonprofit’s strategic plan.
The Bottom Line
Nonprofits must embrace AI and do so responsibly. Those who wait too long will find themselves outpaced by organizations that recognize AI’s potential as a strategic, not just technical, asset. Ignoring or delaying adoption is not an option, just as failure is not an option.
What’s your organization’s AI strategy? If you don’t have one yet, it’s time to start. The future isn’t waiting.
Related
About the author
