Artificial Intelligence. For some, it still feels like a distant sci-fi concept. For others, it’s already part of daily life —guiding our Netflix picks, routing our GPS, or even helping us write emails. But for nonprofit boards, AI might seem like unfamiliar territory. The truth? It’s not just relevant—it’s essential.
AI is no longer the future; it’s the now. And while it can feel intimidating, it offers incredible opportunities for nonprofits to better serve their missions, operate more efficiently, and make smarter decisions. The key is understanding how to navigate this new landscape with intention and integrity.
Let’s explore what that looks like.
Why Should Nonprofit Boards Care About AI?
Boards are charged with big-picture thinking: strategy, oversight, and ensuring the mission stays front and center. That’s exactly why AI belongs on your radar. It’s not just a technology tool—it’s a strategic lever.
Think about the challenges facing nonprofits today: limited resources, growing demand, the need for data-driven impact, and evolving donor expectations. AI can help address all of these. From automating administrative tasks and analyzing donor data, to improving program delivery and forecasting trends, AI offers practical benefits that align with organizational goals.
But just because we can use AI doesn’t always mean we should. That’s where thoughtful governance comes in.
Common Uses of AI in the Nonprofit Sector
Let’s break it down with some real-world examples of how nonprofits are using AI:
Donor engagement: AI can analyze donor behavior and personalize outreach—sending the right message to the right person at the right time.
Grant writing: Some organizations are using AI tools to generate drafts or gather background research more efficiently.
Chatbots: These can answer frequently asked questions, freeing up staff time and improving responsiveness.
Data analysis: AI can quickly sift through years of program data to identify patterns, outcomes, or service gaps.
Volunteer matching: AI tools can help match volunteer skills and preferences to specific organizational needs.
These aren’t just tech gimmicks—they’re mission-enhancing tools when used responsibly.
The Role of the Board in AI Strategy
So, where does the board fit in?
Your job isn’t to become tech experts. It’s to ask smart questions, ensure ethical use, and align technology decisions with your mission and values. Here are some guiding questions boards should be asking:
How does this AI tool help us advance our mission?
What data will it use, and how is that data being protected?
Could this technology create unintended bias or harm?
Are we transparent with our stakeholders about our use of AI?
What guardrails are in place to ensure ethical use?
Just like any major strategic decision, AI adoption needs to be vetted for its impact—on people, privacy, equity, and mission.
Ethical Considerations Matter
AI is powerful, but it’s not perfect. It reflects the data it’s trained on, and if that data includes bias, the results can be skewed—sometimes in ways that harm marginalized communities. That’s a serious concern for mission-driven organizations.
Nonprofit boards have a responsibility to uphold values of equity, accountability, and transparency. That means pushing for clear policies on how AI tools are selected and used, especially when they affect people’s access to services, opportunities, or support.
Being proactive here is key. Don't wait for a problem to arise—start the conversation now.
Getting Started: A Few Practical Tips
You don’t need a tech background to start leading with confidence on AI. Here’s how your board can begin:
Educate yourself – Bring in a speaker, take a webinar, or read up on nonprofit use cases. Knowledge is power.
Start small – Identify one area where AI could help. Maybe it's donor outreach or internal reporting.
Include AI in strategic planning – This ensures it’s part of the big-picture vision and not just a shiny add-on.
Appoint a “tech liaison” on the board – Someone who can track trends and bring updates to the board regularly.
Review your policies – Ensure data privacy, ethical use, and equity are baked into your tech decision-making.
Navigating with Purpose
At the end of the day, AI is just a tool. It can’t replace human compassion, creativity, or community connection. But it canhelp nonprofits scale their impact when guided by thoughtful leadership.
That’s where you come in.
As a board member, you are the stewards of your organization’s future. Embracing AI doesn’t mean abandoning your values—it means using every resource available to advance them more effectively.
So ask the hard questions. Stay curious. Lead with purpose.
Because the future isn’t just coming—it’s already here. And nonprofits have a powerful opportunity to shape it for good. If your Board or leadership team would like to learn more or explore this topic, let's connect!