AI is already being used across fundraising teams – but most organisations are not yet treating it as a strategic capability.
This research report explores how fundraisers are using AI today, where organisations are falling behind, and what leaders need to do next.
AI is no longer a future consideration for the fundraising sector. It is already widely used in day-to-day work – from content creation and grant writing to prospect research.
But while individual use is widespread, organisational readiness is lagging.
Based on a survey of fundraising professionals across Australia, this report provides a clear, evidence-based view of:
- How AI is actually being used today
- Where the biggest gaps are emerging
- What is holding organisations back
- How leaders should respond
What the research shows
- AI use is widespread, but uneven across teams
- Staff adoption is outpacing organisational strategy and policy
- Leadership support is not yet translating into investment
- Current value is operational – not yet transformational
- Capability, governance and resourcing are the main constraints
- Donor trust is still uncertain, making transparency critical
Stat highlights
- 45% use AI at work every day
- 87% believe AI will be important or critical to fundraising
- Only 23% say their organisation has a clear AI strategy
- 56% have not secured budget for AI adoption
- 94% say their team’s skills are insufficient or partial
This report is designed for:
- CEOs and executive leaders
- Heads of fundraising and development
- Fundraising managers and practitioners
- Anyone responsible for strategy, capability or innovation in fundraising
Why this matters
The sector is moving quickly, but not always deliberately.
Without clear strategy, capability and governance, AI adoption risks becoming inconsistent, unmanaged and underutilised.
This report provides a practical, grounded view of what is happening now – and what it means for leadership.
About the research
- Based on a survey conducted in February–March 2026
- 152 fundraising professionals (post data cleaning)
- Mix of organisations across size, revenue and team structure
- Reflects the views of engaged practitioners actively exploring AI
Download the report
Get a clear, practical view of how AI is being used in fundraising – and what to do next.
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