Grand River Agency Leads AI-Driven Fundraising Revolution for Nonprofits
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept — it’s here transforming the nonprofit fundraising landscape. We’re so excited that our partners at Grand River Agency, a Western New York-based nonprofit marketing and fundraising firm, are taking the lead in this digital revolution harnessing the potential of AI-driven fundraising.
Kelsey Boudin, GRA’s Founder & President, recently earned the Artificial Intelligence for Nonprofit Marketing & Fundraising certification from Nonprofit Tech for Good.
(Read the original announcement here: *NEW* We’re Certified in Artificial Intelligence for Nonprofit Marketing & Fundraising.)
Grand River Agency is now proudly at the forefront of AI-powered donor engagement strategies. This certification underscores the firm’s commitment to helping nonprofits implement cutting-edge fundraising solutions that go far beyond simple automation.
AI-Powered Fundraising: More Than Just Efficiency
Nonprofits often struggle with donor retention, engagement and personalized outreach. Many organizations have dabbled in AI for content generation — think social media posts and automated thank-you emails. But the real game-changer? Predictive AI, which allows nonprofits to:
- Personalize donor communications based on past giving behavior and philanthropic interests.
- Segment donor lists using hundreds of data points, from demographics to content consumption.
- Forecast fundraising trends to optimize outreach and maximize contributions.
- Automate workflows to reduce administrative burdens and improve efficiency.
“The power of AI isn’t just about saving time — it’s about unlocking deeper donor relationships and increasing fundraising revenue through data-driven personalization,” Mr. Boudin said. “Nonprofits that embrace AI today will have a significant competitive advantage in the coming years.”
Early AI Adoption Yields Big Results for Nonprofit Fundraising
The 2025 Fundraising Outlook Report reveals that nonprofits are increasingly turning to AI for fundraising success. In 2023, only 4% of nonprofits used AI for donor personalization. By 2024, that number rose to 6%, with projections indicating that 43% will integrate AI in the near future.
For nonprofits hesitant to adopt AI due to cost concerns, the data is clear: investing in AI-powered fundraising leads to stronger donor retention and higher revenue streams.
AI in Action: Transforming Fundraising in Western New York
While AI fundraising is gaining traction nationwide, small-budget nonprofits in rural areas often lag behind in technology adoption. Grand River Agency is changing that by bringing AI-powered fundraising to Western New York’s nonprofit sector.
One of the agency’s most exciting projects is its $1 Million Fundraising Campaign for the Olean Food Pantry. This campaign has raked in more than $100,000 in the past year for the small nonprofit food pantry. Board President David Potter is eager to see how AI-driven insights will enhance their outreach.
“We’ve already made great progress in our campaign with Grand River Agency’s expertise,” Mr. Potter said. “With AI, we can take it even further — reaching the right donors at the right time with messages that truly resonate.”
Artificial Intelligence (With a Boost From Humanity)
Despite AI’s incredible capabilities, human expertise is still essential. AI can predict which donors are most likely to give, but it takes strategy, storytelling, and relationship-building to drive real impact.
“AI is a powerful tool, but it’s not a replacement for human connection,” Mr. Boudin emphasized. “At Grand River Agency, we don’t just provide AI-powered tools — we ensure nonprofits know how to use them effectively to maintain a balance between automation and meaningful engagement.”
With its latest certification, Grand River Agency is ready to help organizations across the country integrate AI solutions that maximize donor engagement and revenue.
“The nonprofits that act now will see the greatest long-term success,” Mr. Boudin said.
Contact Kelsey Boudin at kelsey@grandriveragency.org.