AI tools being used in not-for-profits
AI tools are rapidly transforming the not-for-profit sector, with recent surveys showing that 69% of Australian NFPs are either using or planning to use AI tools within the next year[12]. Here are the most widely adopted AI solutions:
Communication Tools
ChatGPT and Large Language Models
Nearly one-third of Australian not-for-profits use ChatGPT, making it the most popular AI system in the sector[1]. Other major platforms include:
- Google's Gemini
- Anthropic's Claude
- Microsoft Copilot[9]
Donor Management
Dataro
This Australian-developed platform has shown remarkable success in donor targeting. Greenpeace Australia's implementation resulted in a 5x ROI and helped retain 64 supporters who were likely to lapse[2].
Administrative Solutions
Meeting Assistants
- Zoom AI Companion: Provides automated responses and meeting summaries
- Otter.ai: Offers real-time transcription and note-taking capabilities[3]
Data Analysis
Zia by Zoho
Specialises in predictive analysis and data interpretation, helping organisations make data-driven decisions[4].
Social Media Management
Hootsuite with OwlyWriter AI
Generates social media content and manages posting schedules, with its AI capabilities specifically tailored for not-for-profit communications[3].
Fundraising Tools
DonorSearch Ai
Recognised as the most advanced machine learning tool for fundraising, it helps organisations identify and segment top prospects[5].
Impact Assessment
The Institute of Community Directors Australia reports that not-for-profits are primarily using AI for:
- Data-driven decision making (21%)
- Grant application writing (20%)
- Data analysis (15%)
- Customer engagement (9%)[1]
Implementation Trends
One in four not-for-profit and charity organisations are already using AI, with two-thirds expected to adopt these technologies within the year[12]. This rapid adoption reflects the sector's recognition of AI's potential to enhance operational efficiency while managing limited resources.
Citations:
[2] https://eastsidepeople.org/insight/5-ai-tools-for-charities/
[5] https://www.donorsearch.net/resources/ai-tools-for-nonprofits/
[6] https://www.sap.com/resources/how-nonprofits-use-ai-to-find-and-keep-good-donors
[7] https://www.grassrootsit.com.au/blog/how-ai-and-rpa-can-transform-non-profit-operations/
[8] https://www.classy.org/blog/ai-tools-nonprofits/
[9] https://www.nptechforgood.com/2024/06/21/the-best-ai-fundraising-productivity-tools-for-nonprofits/
[10] https://www.funraise.org/blog/best-ai-tools-for-nonprofits
[11] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/case-studies-showcasing-how-nonprofits-utilizing-ai-enhance-phillips
[12] https://www.communitydirectors.com.au/articles/not-for-profits-embracing-ai-reportoxchange-ai-report
[13] https://digitaldefynd.com/IQ/ways-non-profit-organizations-are-using-ai/