Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools are one of the most advanced options for organisations looking to stay ahead of the curve. AI for not-for-profits can improve operations, streamline processes, and create new growth opportunities. 

However, along with all its benefits, AI technologies have some limitations that not all organisations and charities are fully aware of. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of using AI tools for not-for-profits, and how to implement these new technologies ethically and efficiently. 

1. Understanding the benefits of AI technology for not-for-profits 

• AI tools help not-for-profits optimise their resources 

Due to their small budgets, not-for-profits (NFPs) must do more with less and, therefore, can benefit from the innovation that AI affords. For example, AI-powered tools could help reduce the administrative workload to achieve more with limited resources. Admin tasks such as taking meeting keynotes, drafting meeting agendas or writing a follow-up email can be done by an AI assistant like Zoom AI Companion or Otter.AI. AI can also be used to analyse financial data and identify cost-saving opportunities, allowing organisations to operate more efficiently. 

Using AI to automate tasks and make better decisions based on analysed data will enable NFPs to distribute resources and focus on what matters most – driving their mission success. By automating repetitive tasks, analysing data, and making more informed decisions, NFPs can allocate their resources more effectively and accelerate their for-purpose goals and missions.  However, not-for-profits must be mindful of the technology and adopt AI tools ethically and responsibly. 

• Provide a better service to the people who need them the most 

NFPs and social enterprises incorporating AI innovation tools for good causes can enhance their digital capabilities and reach more people in need or better market themselves to donors. 

For example, an education-focused NFP could use AI to analyse student performance data and identify specific areas where students are struggling, allowing the organisation to tailor its programs to meet those needs more effectively. 

• How AI can increase the efficiency of fundraising campaigns

AI can also help organisations optimise their fundraising campaigns by identifying the most effective messaging and channels for different audiences, or analyse donor behaviour, predict future donations, and ultimately, empower you to run more efficient and impactful campaigns. Here’s how: 

• Segmentation: AI tools can analyse factors like past donation history, demographics, and online behaviour to segment your donor base. This allows you to tailor messages and appeals to resonate with specific groups, increasing engagement and response rates. Imagine sending emails highlighting environmental projects to donors who have previously supported conservation efforts. 

• Predictive Modeling: AI algorithms can learn from past donation patterns to generate predictions on how your donors will behave. This empowers you to prioritise outreach efforts towards those most likely to give, maximising the return on your fundraising investment. For instance, Dataro, an AI donor prediction tool, identifies donors who are likely to give, measures the trend by prediction scores and suggests the optimal donation amount. 

Implementing AI in not-for-profit organisations: Tips and Best Practices 

• Follow ethical and safe practices when implementing AI for not-for-profits ​

AI tools can perpetuate biases, which can lead to discrimination and inequality. For example, if an AI system is trained on historical data containing gender or racial biases, it may replicate them when making decisions. An Amazon recruiting AI system discriminated against women's resumes as it was trained on historical data where men dominated tech roles. This could lead to discriminatory outcomes, such as excluding certain groups from receiving support or services. 

To avoid these issues, NFPs should research the potential ethical implications of their chosen AI solution. Organisations have to carefully select and analyse data for potential biases before feeding it into AI algorithms. More importantly, your organisation should be mindful of protecting your customers’ or supporters’ data privacy when they work with AI tools.  It’s essential for NFPs to consider creating ethical guidelines for using AI tools or a data strategy in place, outlining their principles and policies for using the technology responsibly and moderately. 

• Invest in staff training and education to use AI tools effectively ​

In addition to ethical considerations, not-for-profits must ensure they have the right skills and resources to implement AI-powered tools effectively and securely. This may involve investing in training and education for staff and consulting technology experts to implement AI software.  

Unsurprisingly, 63% of surveyed NFPs in a recent Microsoft research said security risks are one of their concerns when using AI. AI is safe when you know how to use it correctly. With a sound educational foundation, your team can tailor AI tools to your not-for-profit’s specific needs and take advantage of the tools that will be most helpful. 

Our learning and development hub’s resources, designed for NFPs, can help your team understand AI opportunities and acquire AI skills to use AI responsibly and safely. Check out the AI-related webinar and training programs available for NFPs here. 

Find suitable AI-powered tools at no cost or a better price for your not-for-profit

Not-for-profit organisations are often more prone to getting left behind than for-profit organisations when it comes to incorporating AI into their standard business practices. According to the 2023 Technology in the Not-for-profit sector report, although the sector adoption of AI has doubled since our 2022 report, only 24% of surveyed organisations are making use of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT. This is because they may have fewer resources and less funding to invest in new technologies, making it more challenging to keep up with the rapid pace of technological advancements. In addition, NFPs may have a more limited pool of talent to draw from, making it harder to find employees with the necessary technical skills to implement AI effectively. 

However, our sector cannot afford to ignore the potential benefits of AI tools. As we move further into the digital age, AI is becoming an increasingly important tool for organisations of all types to stay competitive and relevant. By failing to incorporate AI into their standard business practices, NFPs risk falling behind their for-profit counterparts and losing out on opportunities to achieve their missions more effectively. 

As a not-for-profit ourselves, we understand those challenges, and here's how we can help: 

• Access to Discounted & AI-Powered Tools:

Connecting Up has partnered with leading technology providers to offer a range of AI-powered tools at special discounted rates for NFP organisations. These tools can streamline daily operations, enhance communication, and empower creativity, allowing NFPs and charities to focus more effectively on their core mission. 

• Featured AI-powered Solutions for Not-for-profits

  • Business Meetings: 

    • Zoom: Zoom is a user-friendly video conferencing platform enabling remote collaboration and communication. Zoom AI Companion automates responses, highlights essential points, and provides meeting summaries and smart chapters. 

• Otter.ai: Otter AI is an AI meeting assistant that transcribes conversations in real time, allowing for effortless note-taking and easy access to key discussion points. 

• Marketing and Creative Design: 

  • Hootsuite: Hootsuite is a comprehensive social media management platform that simplifies scheduling, content creation, and campaign analysis, all in one place. Hootsuite’s OwlyWriter AI makes posting on social media quick and easy. This AI-powered tool instantly generates captions and gets winning post ideas for your social network.  

  • Adobe Express Premium: Adobe Express is an intuitive design tool with built-in AI features that empower users to create professional-looking social media graphics, presentations, and marketing materials without extensive design expertise. 

• Website Building and Customer Services: 

  • Website Building: Consider Wix, a user-friendly website builder that leverages AI-powered features to simplify the website content creation. 

  • Voice AI Assistant: Explore Curious Thing AI, powered by proprietary conversational AI technology and OpenAI's ChatGPT. This voice AI assistant is designed to automate inbound calls and outbound customer engagement across any stage of the customer journey. 

Important Note: While Connecting Up offers access to these tools at a discount, it's crucial to remember that not all solutions may be equally applicable to every organisation's specific needs. Carefully evaluate how each tool aligns with your unique requirements and resources. 

AI as a Catalyst for Social Good 

The potential of AI to revolutionise the way NFPs operate is undeniable.  These AI-powered tools are valuable resources, but remember, the true power lies in leveraging them strategically to amplify your impact. By combining access to discounted AI tools with the educational resources and digital learning offered by Connecting Up and Infoxchange, NFPs can harness the potential of AI to drive positive change and achieve their social good objectives.