As we close out 2025, one theme is clear: nonprofits are no longer just surviving. They’re ready to stabilize, rebuild, and grow again — but this time with strategy, not scramble.
I recently joined Ryan Philbrook on the Basecamp Podcast to discuss what organizations learned this year and what they must do now to create predictable, sustainable fundraising in 2026. Here are the biggest takeaways from that conversation.
1. 2025 Was the Year of Realignment
This year wasn’t easy. Donor behavior shifted. Digital giving accelerated. Retention continued to challenge organizations. And Development staff turnover… well, that continued to break momentum at nonprofits everywhere.
But a few things became clear:
- Donors want value alignment, not volume.
- Clarity of purpose always beats complexity.
- And development stability remains the number-one predictor of fundraising success.
The nonprofits that grew in 2025 weren’t the loudest — they were the most focused.
2. The 2026 Playbook Starts With Three Things
At PNWF, we use a simple but powerful framework:
Strategy → Systems → Storytelling
Strategy gives direction. Systems make the strategy repeatable. Storytelling connects the strategy to human emotion.
Most organizations try to jump straight into tactics — the appeal, the event, the social media post — without building the structure underneath. However, when you establish the foundation first, everything else becomes easier, more predictable, and more sustainable.
This is also where the Fractional Business Model shines.
Instead of relying on one overwhelmed Development Manager to do the work of an entire department, fractional development gives nonprofits the full power of a development team at a fraction of the cost. You get consistency, depth, and stability — without burnout or turnover.
And for most small and midsize organizations, that’s precisely what creates sustainable growth.
3. Want to Start 2026 Strong? Do These Three Things Before January 31
If the idea of planning for next year feels overwhelming, here’s where to begin:
A. Audit your fundraising year.
Identify what worked, what didn’t, and what deserves to be sunset.
B. Map out your 2026 fundraising calendar.
Not 12 competing priorities — just one focus per quarter. Simplicity unlocks momentum.
C. Establish your donor-communication rhythm.
Successful nonprofits follow a predictable cadence:
- Monthly donor communications
- Quarterly impact storytelling
- One strategic campaign per quarter
- Gratitude that isn’t tied to an ask
Consistency builds trust. Trust drives giving.
And yes — clean your CRM. Data hygiene is one of the highest-return investments any nonprofit can make.
4. The Heart of Fundraising Is Still… Human
With all the talk about systems and strategy, it’s easy to forget this:
Fundraising isn’t about asking for money. It’s about inviting people into a story that matters.
Your donors aren’t funding transactions — they’re joining a mission. They want to see themselves in the impact. When you center humanity, everything else falls into place.
And if there’s one message I hope nonprofit leaders carry into 2026, it’s this:
“Focus, not frenzy.”
Do fewer things — and do them better.
2026 Can Be Your Most Stable Year Yet
If 2025 was the year of realignment, 2026 can be the year of sustainable growth.
Build your system. Tell your story. Stay consistent. And watch what happens.
If you’re ready to bring stability, structure, and strategic support to your development program, PNWF is here to help you make 2026 your most sustainable fundraising year yet.
Eddie Allen
Founder/CEO/Lead Guide
Pacific Northwest Fundraising
Pronouns: he/him/his
360.921.2908
www.pacificnorthwestfundraising.us
Connecting Mission with Passion
Schedule a meeting at: https://meetings.hubspot.com/eddie94