How AI is Revolutionizing Fundraising with Josh Hirsch

Jan 29, 2025

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AI is reshaping the nonprofit sector, from improving efficiency to revolutionizing donor engagement—but how do we ensure it’s done ethically and effectively? 65% of nonprofits using AI report improvements in efficiency and productivity, with the biggest wins in communication and data analysis. But 42% of nonprofits cite ethical concerns, such as data privacy and bias, as barriers to adoption.

This week, we’re joined by Josh Hirsch, aka “The AI Dude,” a seasoned nonprofit strategist with over 17 years of experience. Josh is the Education and Training Strategist at FundRaise Up, a faculty member at Indiana University’s Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, and the host of The AI Dude Podcast. He’s dedicated to helping nonprofits navigate the intersection of technology and philanthropy.

Drawing insights from Josh’s expertise and the latest research, we’ll explore how AI can help nonprofits work smarter, not harder, while staying mission-focused. With 65% of nonprofits reporting tangible benefits like increased efficiency and productivity, and only 2% fully adopting AI, there’s plenty of room for growth and learning.

What You’ll Learn:

How AI can help nonprofits overcome resource constraints and improve operations.
Why starting with operational efficiency is the best first step for AI adoption.
The ethical challenges of AI—like data privacy and bias—and how nonprofits can tackle them head-on.
Real-world examples of AI creating meaningful change in nonprofit operations, from content creation to donor communication.

About Josh Hirsch:

Josh Hirsch is a seasoned nonprofit leader with over 17 years of experience. He serves as the Education and Training Strategist at FundRaise Up and is a faculty member at The Fund Raising School at Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Josh also leads The AI Dude, a consulting firm dedicated to helping nonprofits harness the power of artificial intelligence. A skilled strategist and communicator, he specializes in AI, digital marketing, and social media, empowering organizations to thrive in the digital age.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

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