Nonprofits have long been engines of lean innovation driving social good. But while AI is rapidly reshaping how work gets done, the sector’s response has been uneven. Some organizations are forging ahead. Others are cautiously testing the waters. Many are overwhelmed or under-resourced, lacking the infrastructure, funding, or expertise to meaningfully engage with AI.

The barriers are real, but not insurmountable. And readiness is no longer optional. Nonprofits that delay risk falling behind at a time when technology is becoming central to mission delivery and scale.

So where should nonprofits begin?

Closing technology gaps requires more than chasing the latest tools—it demands a clear, strategic approach. With the right investments, partnerships, and commitment to building internal capacity, nonprofits can shift from reactive to strategic in how they use AI and technology.

Watch this on-demand webinar to explore six practical ways that nonprofits can begin building the capacity needed to engage with AI and technology more meaningfully.

Additional resources:

• Anchor report: Bridgespan | AI Can’t Be Ignored: Exploring the Opportunities for Nonprofits and the Social Sector
  • This report includes frameworks for evaluating AI benefits/opportunities and risks/costs as well as common nonprofit use case examples
  • The report has lots of embedded resources too, so be sure to check out the links there
•  Looking to get even more practical? Here's a starter list of resources:
  • Getting started: Candid | Generative AI for Nonprofits: Practical Tips for Starting Small and Building Smart by Bridgespan's Nate Wong
  • Playbook of how to implement AI: Fast Forward | AI Playbook
  • How to create your own AI policy: Fast Forward | AI Policy Builder
  • Nonprofit Common AI Prompts: Nonprofit AI Cookbook by Jake Porway
  • Grant-maker perspectives on AI: Project Evident | Grantmaker Strategies for AI Investment Report
• Broader resources:
  • Resource Hub: NTEN | AI resource hub for nonprofits
  • Directory of AI tools: AI for Nonprofits
  • Broader resources beyond AI: Civic Tech Field Guide