Back in August, Blackbaud released their latest benchmarking report for UK fundraisers. But if you missed it in the end of summer rush, now is the perfect time to take a closer look. 

The Status of UK Fundraising is in its seventh year, and this year’s edition comprises over 40 pages of insights and data that you, and your organisation, can use to benchmark your performance.

Usefully, over 850 nonprofit professionals shared details about their recent fundraising performance and experiences of working in the sector. After examining these responses, the report shares reflections on income trends and drivers, digital maturity, artificial intelligence (AI), technology ecosystems, and much more.

There is a lot of useful information to digest, but to get you started, here are five key findings from this year’s report:

1. The economy continues to be a challenge, but public perceptions are also a growing concern 

Like last year, the economic situation – and subsequent fewer donations – are both challenges that non-profit organisations face. Interestingly, public perceptions of the sector also concern non-profits significantly more than last year. Despite these challenges, more organisations are seeing income growth than decline, and those growing are more likely to have an evenly spread income stream portfolio.

2. Improved data management would bring the biggest value to fundraising strategies 

60 per cent of participants agree that improved data management would bring the greatest value to their organisation. There are, however, big differences depending on organisation size, current systems and attitudes towards tech and innovation, as highlighted by the four ‘personas’ used to explore data throughout the report.

3. Non-profits are using AI, but only a few prioritise or have the resources to explore it 

While generally limited to generative AI, 57 per cent of participants use the technology. However, just a small minority say that they prioritise AI or have the resources to explore how it can be used in their organisation.

4. Tech-savvy and innovative non-profits are more likely to experience income growth

Those digitally mature are significantly more likely to say that their income is growing. These tech-savvy organisations are more likely to be using AI and have less concerns about their fundraising tools. On top of this, new and different activity is one of the main drivers of income growth, further emphasising the importance of digital adaptation and innovation.

5. Integrated tech stacks are a rare thing in the sector, with only a fifth fully leveraging their CRM (customer relationship management)

While most non-profits use a CRM, only 21 per cent agree that they get the most out of it. And while many nonprofits identify that integrations would bring value, just seven per cent think that their technology is well integrated, highlighting a currently missed opportunity to maximise opportunities with technology.

Explore these key insights further and out more...

While this year’s report highlighted that many organisations have been facing challenges – due to the current economic situation or Covid-19 related financial support coming to an end – Blackbaud also identified some encouraging trends for fundraisers in relation to data, innovation and AI.

If you are interested in learning more and seeing how your own organisation compares, you can download and view the complete report, here.