In this episode of The AI Dude podcast, host Josh Hirsch, MS engages in an in-depth conversation with ⁠Woodrow Rosenbaum⁠, ⁠Chief Data Officer at GivingTuesday⁠, and a leading voice in the global generosity movement. Together, they uncover how artificial intelligence (AI) and data are transforming the nonprofit landscape, from shaping donor engagement strategies to driving impactful decision-making. Woodrow dives into the ⁠Fundraising Effectiveness Project⁠, a vital tool for understanding trends in fundraising, and the ⁠GivingTuesday Data Commons⁠, a global initiative leveraging data to inspire generosity. They also examine the findings of the recently released AI Readiness Survey, discussing how nonprofits can overcome skepticism, implement ethical AI practices, and harness technology to build stronger, more resilient organizations. This episode is packed with actionable insights for nonprofits of all sizes looking to future-proof their operations and maximize their mission.

Key Topics

• AI as a Strategic Partner: How AI enhances decision-making and empowers nonprofits to act with data-driven confidence.
• Education and Readiness: The importance of equipping nonprofit teams with the knowledge and tools to embrace AI effectively.
• Ethical AI Practices: Addressing data privacy, transparency, and accountability to ensure responsible AI adoption in the nonprofit sector.
• Data-Driven Insights: How AI accelerates data analysis, revealing actionable trends and opportunities faster than traditional methods.
• Advocating for AI in the Sector: Why nonprofits must take an active role in shaping AI’s integration into philanthropy.
• Personalization at Scale: Leveraging AI to create meaningful, personalized donor experiences while maintaining authenticity.
• Overcoming Skepticism: Understanding the hesitations surrounding AI adoption and how organizations can foster experimentation in a low-risk environment.
• The Power of Imagination: Exploring how creativity and curiosity unlock the full potential of AI tools for nonprofit innovation.
• Strengthening Fundraising Efforts: Practical ways nonprofits can use AI to boost efficiency, retention, and engagement with donors.
• Opportunities for Small to Mid-Sized Organizations: Why these nonprofits stand to benefit the most from AI adoption and how to get started.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Data-Driven Fundraising
03:15 - What is the Fundraising Effectiveness Project?
07:52 - Using Data to Build Resilient Nonprofits
12:10 - Skepticism vs. Experimentation with AI
16:40 - AI Readiness Survey Results
21:05 - Ethical AI and Transparent Policies
25:30 - The Future of AI in Fundraising and Philanthropy
28:47 - Woodrow’s Favorite 1980s Movie

In this episode of The AI Dude podcast, host Josh Hirsch sits down with Scott Remington to discuss the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) for nonprofits. They explore how AI can serve as a co-pilot, enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making without replacing human jobs. The conversation covers the ethical implications of AI, the importance of education and advocacy for nonprofits, and practical applications of AI tools, including custom GPTs. Scott shares his mission with FosterAI, emphasizing the need for nonprofits to embrace technology while maintaining a humanistic approach.

Key Topics:

• AI can enhance decision-making in nonprofits.
• Nonprofits should embrace automation and co-piloting with AI.
• Education on AI tools is crucial for nonprofits.
• AI can help brainstorm and generate ideas.
• Ethical considerations are vital in AI development.
• Custom GPTs can be tailored for specific organizational needs.
• AI can analyze data faster than traditional methods.
• Nonprofits must advocate for their role in AI discussions.
• Imagination is key to leveraging AI effectively.
• AI tools can significantly improve fundraising efforts.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to AI in Nonprofits

05:08 The Future of AI in Nonprofits

09:47 AI as a Co-Pilot for Nonprofits

14:59 The Ethical Considerations of AI

20:02 Practical Applications of AI for Nonprofits

24:49 Custom GPTs and Personalization

30:01 Foster AI and Scott's Mission

34:48 Conclusion and Resources

In this episode of The AI Dude podcast, host Josh Hirsch sits down with Cherian Koshy, a distinguished innovator, strategist, and expert in philanthropy, to explore the evolving role of AI in nonprofit fundraising. As Vice President of Product Strategy at KindSight and a Certified Fund Raising Executive with extensive expertise in behavioral science and AI ethics, Cherian shares insights into how organizations can responsibly integrate AI to enhance their operations while staying aligned with core values.

The conversation kicks off with a lighthearted discussion about Cherian’s journey to becoming a Kentucky Colonel and his favorite 80s movies. From there, Josh and Cherian dive into the nuanced ways AI is being adopted in fundraising—touching on predictive analytics, AI-driven appeals, and the delicate balance between automation and maintaining a human connection with donors.

A key part of the discussion focuses on the findings from Cherian's new AI donor perceptions study, co-led with Nathan Chappelle. The study offers groundbreaking insights into donor sentiment around AI, with 80% of respondents expressing familiarity with the technology and voicing concerns around privacy, data security, and the need for human interaction in fundraising appeals. Cherian and Josh examine the importance of transparency, AI usage policies, and the ethical considerations nonprofits must navigate to build trust with donors.

Cherian also emphasizes the need for strategic planning when developing AI policies, highlighting how AI tools can enhance operations without compromising authenticity. He offers practical advice on forming internal task forces, piloting AI use cases, and ensuring AI aligns with organizational culture. Josh and Cherian further explore how nonprofits can address donor concerns about AI replacing staff, the implications of AI-generated images, and the role of policies in establishing clear boundaries for AI use.

Key Topics

• The value of transparency and AI usage policies in building donor trust
• How AI-driven tools can enhance donor engagement without losing the human element
• Insights from a new study on donor perceptions of AI in the nonprofit sector
• Practical advice on developing internal task forces and aligning AI with organizational goals
• Ethical considerations around AI use, including privacy, data security, and workforce impacts

Guest Bio: Cherian is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP), & AFP Master Trainer. He founded the NonprofitOS, a generative AI platform designed to help organizations maximize their impact, which was acquired by iWave. Before starting NonprofitOS, Cherian spent more than 25 years working in the nonprofit sector, working with thousands of donors and raising more than 100 million for various organizations and causes. He proudly serves as the Vice Chair of Professional Development on the AFP Global Board. He is a sought-after trainer and keynote speaker, and his thought leadership has been featured in several publications.

Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction and Daunting Fundraising Experiences
• 05:38 Transitioning from Marketing to Nonprofit Consulting
• 09:59 The Role of AI in Recruitment
• 14:55 Streamlining Processes with AI Tools
• 20:55 The Future of AI in Nonprofit Recruitment
• 29:38 Ethical Considerations in AI Usage

Resources

• Follow Cherian Koshy, CFRE on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheriankoshy/

Connect with Josh Hirsch

• Website: http://theaidude.ai/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshahirsch/https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshahirsch/