Principal and Executive Vice President
Between deep proposed cuts in federal spending and persistent economic and political instability, it’s a challenging time to be a fundraiser. Many nonprofit leaders are understandably anxious. Questions about donor confidence, long-term sustainability, and board engagement are weighing heavily across the sector.
But when we look at the landscape through the eyes of donors, a different picture emerges—one that’s more optimistic and grounded in purpose.
At the Winkler Group, we’re leading campaigns and strategic fundraising initiatives across a wide range of missions and geographies. And here’s what we can say unequivocally: donors have not stepped back. If anything, they’re stepping forward.
In the past few months alone, our clients have delivered remarkable results:
A Florida-based elder care organization is on pace to achieve the most successful annual fund in its history.
A higher education foundation is similarly on track to exceed its annual fund goal, marking one of its most successful years ever.
A community college in South Florida secured two seven-figure gifts last month, despite uncertainty sparked by the current Administration’s “Liberation Day” policy shift.
A community service organization just completed its capital campaign above goal.
Across all of our active campaigns, only one leadership gift has been delayed, and none have been withdrawn.
Donors are giving out of conviction. Among high-net-worth donors especially, there’s a long-term view at play. They’re confident the market will rebound—and they’re even more certain that the work your nonprofit is doing matters now more than ever.
What's Driving Donor Confidence?
We’ve seen this before: periods of uncertainty often lead to growth.
After the 2008 recession, charitable giving rebounded strongly. In 2020, when uncertainty took hold, some nonprofits paused—shelving campaigns or pulling back on donor communications. But those that stayed engaged didn’t wait for the “perfect” time. They stayed steady.
They kept showing up for their donors. They adjusted their messaging, listened more, and continued making the case for their mission. And in the end, they didn’t just meet goals, they deepened relationships and built long-term momentum.
In contrast, inaction has consequences. Two universities in South Carolina recently closed their doors. It’s a sobering reminder of what can happen when organizations don’t act decisively or communicate clearly.
When Government Pulls Back, Donors Often Step Forward
Even as the proposed FY2026 federal budget includes deep cuts to non-defense discretionary spending—potentially impacting education, health, housing, and social services—donors are not retreating. In fact, when public resources pull back, we often see private philanthropy step forward.
That’s already happening. For example, at the National Park Service, staff cuts and policy rollbacks have strained operations. Yet individual park nonprofits are seeing record numbers of volunteers and donors. The Shenandoah National Park Trust received over 150 volunteer inquiries in just two months—triple their annual average.
The message is clear: Donor confidence isn’t driven by headlines. It’s driven by clarity, connection, and the belief that nonprofits are uniquely positioned to meet urgent needs.
For Fundraisers Feeling Stuck: How to Break Through Donor Uncertainty
You may be thinking:
“Sure, that’s great for your clients—but we're not seeing that kind of donor confidence in the conversations that we're having with our constituents. No ringing phones, seven-figure commitments, or boards clamoring to lead the charge. What do we do?”
You’re not alone. For many, hesitation still lingers—among donors, board members, and leadership teams. Here’s how to break that cycle and build momentum:
1. Recenter Your Board
This is a pain point we hear often. If your board is frozen or hesitant, it’s time to bring them back into the conversation. In our experience, inaction from the board usually stems from fear—not disinterest. Set clear expectations about the funding landscape. Share data on past campaign resilience, market rebound charts, and real-world success stories. Help them reframe the conversation.
Don’t ask if you should raise money now. Ask what will happen if you don’t.
2. Double Down on Donor Relationships
Acknowledge concerns, but share your vision. Be clear and honest.
This chart, “The Price of Long-Term Growth is Periodic Volatility,” from wealth management firm Bernstein, shows that while the market dips during recessions (black bars), it rebounds quickly and grows dramatically (blue line: S&P 500).
Many high-net-worth donors view volatility as temporary. They’ve been here before, and they’re positioning their philanthropic dollars accordingly.
Our advice? Maintain a steady cadence of cultivation. Continue to ask, involve, and recognize donors.
CLICK TO ENLARGE — During recessions since 1969, the stock market dipped, but rebounded quickly and then grew dramatically.
3. Offer Creative, Flexible Gift Vehicles
Donors today have more tools and flexibility than ever. Don’t assume they know about these tools—talk about them.
Donor-advised funds (DAFs) are continuing to grow, and IRA distributions through Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) allow those 70½ or older to give up to $108,000 a year completely tax-free. These giving vehicles aren’t just convenient; they allow donors to maintain their impact even when liquid assets are in flux. If a donor is ready to give but unsure about timing, offer longer pledge periods. Focus on the relationship, not the calendar.
4. Use Your Feasibility Study as a Listening Tool
Campaign feasibility studies shouldn’t just be about testing numbers. They should be designed as intentional donor engagement efforts. Use this process to reaffirm support, deepen relationships, and build momentum before you embark on a capital campaign.
5. Demonstrate Your Impact—Often and Authentically
Don’t assume your donors know you’re making a difference. Show them. Send a quick update. Share a client story. Invite them to tour your program or attend a town hall. Connection is currency.
Bringing It All Together
So, which is it? Are donors giving, or holding back?
The answer is both. There’s remarkable generosity across the country, but also many organizations feeling stuck.
Donors, especially those with capacity, aren’t waiting for stability; they’re waiting for vision. They want to know that your mission isn’t retreating in the face of challenge. They want to invest in organizations that are clear-eyed, forward-looking, and ready to act.
If you’re feeling stuck, know this: you’re not alone. And you’re not without options. The path forward isn’t to pause—it’s to re-engage. Reconnect with your board. Reframe the conversation. Remind your donors why your mission matters now more than ever.
The organizations breaking through right now aren’t the ones with the flashiest campaigns or annual appeals. They’re the ones having honest conversations, offering flexible ways to give, and staying visible in front of the people who care.
That’s what builds confidence. That’s what drives giving.
Stay visible, stay empathetic, and stay strategic—and above all, stay in motion.
