Fundraising Trends You Need to Know for 2026

Julia Campbell In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Rob Harter is joined by Julia Campbell, a renowned nonprofit strategist and host of the Nonprofit Nation podcast. With over 20 years in the field, Julia shares the latest data-backed fundraising trends shaping 2026 and what nonprofits can do to thrive amidst economic shifts and evolving donor expectations. Julia emphasizes the growing importance of recurring giving programs, the need for intentional donor communication, and why many nonprofits are leaving billions on the table. She also dives into the impact of generational wealth transfer, how AI and technology can support donor engagement, and how storytelling—not just data—can move donors to action. Tune in to learn innovative approaches, digital strategies, and the mindset shifts nonprofit leaders need to succeed in today’s changing landscape. Key Topics Include: Why recurring giving is essential in a subscription-based world How nonprofits are unintentionally losing out on $52 billion in potential donations The myth of donor fatigue—and what donors are really tired of Storytelling strategies that drive donor engagement and retention Effective use of AI for content repurposing and personalized communication Innovative fundraising tactics using SMS, Facebook DMs, and short-form video How to connect with Gen Z and millennial donors through mission-focused social content Mentioned in This Episode: Julia Campbell’s Website: jcsocialmarketing.com Julia’s Podcast: Nonprofit Nation Podcast GivingTuesday Data Commons: givingtuesday.org/data Plummer Youth Promise: plummeryouthpromise.org Amirah, Inc.: amirahinc.org This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com

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Fundraising Trends You Need to Know for 2026 is an episode from Nonprofit Leadership Podcast by Dr. Rob Harter.

This episode is 38:06 long.

This episode was published on Jan 18, 2026.

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