You want to use AI… Now what? Exploring artificial intelligence for fundraisers
You want to use AI… Now what? Exploring artificial intelligence for fundraisers
I’m excited to be part of ST’s AI (artificial intelligence) team. When I was asked to give an update on our team’s behalf, I struggled with what content to pinpoint that would still be relevant by the time this is published. After all, AI technology is changing so rapidly — new laws, new tools, mergers and startups are being announced every week!
As a fundraiser it’s hard not to feel overwhelmed and under-resourced at the best of times Some companies are investing millions in AI and have established dedicated teams to spearhead technology adoption and streamline operations. Most non-profit organizations simply can’t afford to do that.
I hope this blog post can guide you through your best initial steps in AI, drawing on our experiences at ST.
- First off, embrace an open mind: To survive and thrive in today’s fast-changing landscape, it’s imperative to understand that AI functionality is not beyond your reach. In the realm of fundraising, AI’s integration is revolutionizing traditional approaches and enhancing efficiency. The examples are already impressive: personalized communication. Tools like predictive analytics where algorithms aid in identifying potential donors with precision. AI-powered chatbots that streamline donor interactions, providing real-time assistance and improving engagement. AI is already all around us and it’s only just begun.
- Research is key: Keep learning! Read and listen to anything you can get your hands on. Our team loves the Marketing AI Institute and their weekly podcast. At ST, we’ve also surveyed our staff to gauge how receptive they would be to using AI tools, to measure their experience level and hear their concerns. This has helped us identify obstacles and opportunities for crafting better policies and training programs.
- Develop an AI policy: Yours will set a framework for usage and act as a roadmap for ethical AI adoption. It will align AI initiatives with your organization’s values and mission, ensuring responsible conduct and addressing potential risks, under the oversight of your dedicated AI team. We developed our own AI policy with our employees and clients in mind, shared it with our staff and included it in our HR handbook. It’s a living document, and we are sure to continue updating it as technologies, tools and client expectations change.
- Determine AI use cases: Within the parameters of your new AI policy, identify and select several areas to pilot new AI tools. Start by pinpointing pain points or opportunities to improve or expedite processes. Then thoroughly research potential AI solutions.
- Read the fine print: Carefully review the terms of any tools you plan to use. Pay close attention to privacy statements and revisit them if updates occur. Ensure that you don’t inadvertently disclose confidential information and be selective about any personal data you shared.
- Think of AI as your assistant: Remember, these tools still require human oversight. Be mindful of accuracy of data and factual content as well as the nuances of tone, approach, and alignment with your organization’s mission and values that only a human can provide. Just because you can use AI for faster and more efficient processes doesn’t mean you always should.
AI technologies have the potential to enhance fundraising, optimize strategies, drive impactful outcomes and deepen donor relationships. If you haven’t already, start by assigning a dedicated staff member or team to develop your policy, identify areas of opportunity and begin researching tools and technologies.
We’ll leave it there for now. Look out for our next blog on AI and fundraising, where we’ll dive into some of the successful tools our non-profit clients are already using. If you can’t wait that long, reach out to me at LizA@stephenthomas.ca
Liz Attfield
Vice President, Fundraising Strategy
