The Future of Philanthropy Tech: What Nonprofits, Small Businesses, and Entrepreneurs Need to Know from the 2024 PhilTech Survey

Published on 1/31/2025

The world of funding is evolving, and for nonprofits, small businesses, and mission-driven entrepreneurs, adapting to these shifts is key to thriving. The latest 2024 State of Philanthropy Tech Survey paints a clear picture of where things are headed—AI is making waves, hybrid work is shifting, grant processes are transforming, and funders are re-evaluating how they support organizations.

At My Grant CoPilot, we believe in holistic success—where technology, emotional intelligence, and strategic alignment come together to help you secure funding with ease, confidence, and clarity. Let’s explore the five most important takeaways from this report and, more importantly, how you can prepare.

1. AI in Grantmaking: A Tool, Not a Threat

💡 81% of funders are now using AI, yet only 30% have a clear AI policy.

Right now, AI is mostly used for transcribing meetings (71%) and drafting emails (67%), but its role in decision-making is growing. Some funders are already testing AI-powered review processes to evaluate applications faster.

What This Means for You

Rather than feeling overwhelmed, think of AI as a collaborator—a tool that amplifies your voice and message in the grant world. AI won't replace human-centered storytelling, but it can help you write stronger proposals, research funders more effectively, and streamline your workflow so you can focus on impact.

📌 Ways to Stay Ahead:
✔ Explore AI-driven tools like My Grant CoPilot to enhance grant research and writing.
✔ Keep your proposals human and heart-centered—AI should support, not replace, your unique voice.
✔ Ask funders about their AI review policies so you can tailor your submissions accordingly.

🔗 Need help integrating AI into your grant process? Let’s chat. Book a call here.

2. The Workplace Shift: Hybrid Is Here to Stay

💡 69% of funders will continue offering hybrid or remote work, but support for these models is decreasing.

During the pandemic, remote work opened doors—more virtual networking, flexible funding conversations, and easier access to decision-makers. Now, as some funders return to in-person operations, the grant-seeking experience will vary widely.

What This Means for You

Your approach to relationship-building must be adaptable. Some funders prefer Zoom meetings; others want in-person site visits. Having both digital and in-person engagement strategies will help you stay connected.

📌 Ways to Stay Ahead:
✔ Optimize your digital presence—your website, social media, and online grant submissions should be clear and compelling.
✔ Be proactive in building relationships—ask funders about their preferred communication methods.
✔ Attend hybrid networking events to maintain visibility in both digital and in-person spaces.

🔗 Not sure how to balance digital and in-person engagement? Let’s map out a plan together. Book a call here.

3. Grant Processes Are Evolving—Efficiency Is Key

💡 67% of funders have simplified applications, but only 20% now offer tech tools to grantees.

The good news? Grant applications are getting less complex, with more funders embracing paperless payments and streamlined reporting. The challenge? Tech support for grantees is decreasing, meaning you may need to invest in your own efficient workflows.

What This Means for You

Time and energy are your most valuable resources. A refined grant-seeking process saves you hours of stress while improving your success rate. If your team struggles with juggling applications, reports, and funder research, it’s time to invest in better systems.

📌 Ways to Stay Ahead:
✔ Use automated grant tracking tools like My Grant CoPilot to stay organized.
✔ Identify funders who still offer capacity-building support—some do, but you have to ask.
✔ Shift your energy from manual processes to relationship-building and storytelling.

🔗 Let’s simplify your grant process so you can focus on impact. Book a call here.

4. Tech Budgets Are Tight—So Be Strategic About Digital Investments

💡 52% of foundations allocate only 1%-5% of their budget to tech, down from pandemic highs.

During COVID, many funders increased spending on digital tools. Now, tech budgets are tightening, and funders are outsourcing IT services rather than growing in-house teams.

What This Means for You

Funders still value smart technology investments, but they expect applicants to demonstrate cost efficiency and long-term sustainability. If you're requesting funding for software, training, or tech infrastructure, be prepared to justify it.

📌 Ways to Stay Ahead:
✔ Clearly outline how technology will improve your efficiency, impact, and reporting.
✔ Seek funders that prioritize digital transformation (private foundations tend to invest more in tech).
✔ If applying for tech funding, show a sustainability plan—how will you maintain this investment long-term?

🔗 Need help making your case for tech funding? Let’s refine your proposal together. Book a call here.

5. DEI Efforts Are Holding Steady—But Not Growing Everywhere

💡 31% of funders are increasing their DEI initiatives, but 31% report no change, and only 5% are scaling back.

Many funders remain committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, yet others are maintaining rather than expanding their efforts. If DEI is central to your mission, aligning with the right funders is key.

What This Means for You

If your work supports underrepresented communities, there are still strong opportunities for funding—but funders may want clearer, measurable impact data.

📌 Ways to Stay Ahead:
✔ Highlight DEI in your applications—funders still prioritize equitable impact.
✔ Be transparent about challenges—funders want to see authenticity, not perfection.
✔ Seek out funders who actively invest in DEI efforts—many still do, but it requires research.

🔗 Want help identifying the right DEI-aligned funders? Let’s strategize. Book a call here.

Final Thoughts: It’s Time to Move with Confidence

The grant landscape is always evolving, but with the right mindset and strategy, you don’t have to navigate these changes alone.

At My Grant CoPilot, we go beyond just finding funding—we help you build an efficient, emotionally intelligent, and sustainable grant-seeking approach that honors your mission without burnout.

✨ You’re not just seeking grants—you’re building a movement. Let’s make it as smooth and successful as possible.

🔗 Ready to refine your strategy? Book a call today.