Dear Friends and Colleagues,
At Event Strategies For Success, we are always exploring forward-thinking approaches to nonprofit development. Today, we’re sharing an article by Lynette Battle, who is also one of our esteemed consulting blog contributors, offering insights into “Future-Proofing Nonprofit Fundraising: Thriving in a Changing Landscape.” As we continue to navigate shifts in the sector, we welcome diverse perspectives on these important topics.
In the wake of recent federal directives dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, nonprofits serving historically excluded communities face unprecedented challenges in fundraising and development. This shift while adding new complexities to fundraising, grantmaking, and development efforts offers a new opportunity.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is not dead—it’s just evolving. As funding landscapes shift and legal scrutiny increases, nonprofits must adapt, strategize, and build resilience to continue their critical work.
Below are seven actionable steps your nonprofit can take to navigate fundraising and development in this new era.
1. Reaffirm Your Commitment to DEI
Now more than ever, it’s crucial to stand firm in your mission. Even as external pressures attempt to dilute DEI efforts, your organization must embed inclusivity into your DNA.
🔹 Reevaluate your mission statement to ensure it reflects your ongoing commitment.
🔹 Train staff and board members to communicate DEI principles effectively.
🔹 Develop messaging that underscores the universal benefits of diversity and equity.
2. Conduct a Legal Audit of Fundraising Practices
With increased scrutiny on race-conscious programs, nonprofits must proactively ensure legal compliance in fundraising and grantmaking.
✅ Review funding criteria—if race-based, consider shifting to broader economic or geographic qualifiers.
✅ Engage legal counsel to assess potential risks and refine fundraising strategies.
✅ Explore alternative impact metrics to demonstrate your organization’s commitment to serving marginalized communities.
3. Diversify Your Funding Sources
Relying on a single funding stream is risky. With government and foundation grants under potential threat, your organization should build a well-rounded funding portfolio.
💡 Expand fundraising efforts to include:
✔️ Individual donors and major gifts programs
✔️ Corporate sponsorships with DEI-aligned brands
✔️ Community-driven fundraising campaigns
A diversified funding strategy enhances stability and reduces vulnerability to political and legal shifts.
4. Shift Focus to Socioeconomic Factors
If race-based initiatives are under legal challenge, consider addressing economic disparities instead. Many historically excluded communities face systemic barriers tied to income, education, and geography.
🎯 Funders may be more willing to support programs designed around:
✔️ Low-income status
✔️ First-generation college students
✔️ Small business owners from under-resourced communities
By broadening your criteria, your nonprofit can continue serving its core audience while staying legally compliant.
5. Strengthen Community Engagement
The most powerful asset in fundraising isn’t just money—it’s people. When communities feel truly engaged, they become ambassadors, advocates, and donors.
🚀 Ways to deepen community ties:
✔️ Host listening sessions to understand evolving community needs.
✔️ Encourage storytelling—real impact stories inspire donors.
✔️ Launch a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign where supporters can raise money within their networks.
Community engagement builds trust and attracts sustainable funding.
6. Advocate for Inclusive Policies
Nonprofits can’t afford to be silent in the face of shifting policies. While adapting to legal constraints, continue pushing for systemic change.
✔️ Join coalitions that advocate for inclusive funding policies.
✔️ Educate policymakers on the importance of DEI funding.
✔️ Leverage research to show the economic benefits of investing in historically excluded communities.
Your advocacy efforts can help shape a more equitable philanthropic landscape.
7. Educate Donors and Stakeholders
Many funders do not fully grasp the impact of affirmative action rollbacks. Your nonprofit must lead the conversation and ensure supporters understand the stakes.
💡 How to educate your donor base:
✔️ Host webinars on how legal changes affect funding for underrepresented groups.
✔️ Share impact reports showing how your work fosters economic mobility.
✔️ Provide clear donation options tied to specific outcomes.
When donors see the urgency and impact of their support, they are more likely to remain committed.
The legal and political landscape may be shifting, but your mission is still vital. By staying proactive, diversifying funding, and deepening community engagement, your nonprofit can turn challenges into opportunities.
💡 Fundraising in the post-affirmative action era isn’t about retreating—it’s about evolving.
What strategies has your organization adopted to navigate these changes? Share your insights! 👇🏾
References
- Blue Avocado. (2023). The Big Chill: Why Nonprofits Should Care About Affirmative Action.
- CHC: Creating Healthier Communities. (2023). Navigating DEI Changes Under the New Administration: What Nonprofits Need to Know.
- Davis Wright Tremaine LLP. (2023). Charitable Nonprofits & Affirmative Action: Navigating the New Landscape.
- National Council of Nonprofits. (2023). Why Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Matter.
