How To Start Using AI In Your Nonprofit

AI is not just for tech giants—it is accessible, and with the right approach, it can empower nonprofits to achieve their missions more effectively. In the nonprofit world, staying current with technology is essential for efficiency and growth. In this Nonprofit Power Week episode, Jeff Hensel, a director at Eide Bailly, highlights the importance of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into nonprofit operations. AI offers a wealth of opportunity, but as Jeff points out, it's essential to adopt it thoughtfully.

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“AI is completely possible in your organization, but you need to be ready for it before you start using it,” Jeff begins. Nonprofits need to assess their current processes, secure their systems, and ensure leadership and staff are aligned in their understanding of the technology.

The fascinating conversation touches on AI’s potential for streamlining time-intensive tasks, like data management, freeing staff for more strategic work. As an example, Jeff describes how robotic process automation (RPA) reduced one client’s workload by 70%, allowing them to focus on higher-value tasks. Such automation, he suggests, can be a game-changer, especially for smaller organizations with limited resources.

While the fear of AI replacing jobs is a common concern, Jeff describes to host Julia Patrick, that AI, when implemented correctly, enhances productivity without diminishing the human element. It’s about improving processes, not eliminating roles.

This video treatise with Jeff, is that nonprofits, regardless of size, are encouraged to start small—perhaps with automating content creation or donor communications—and build from there. This gradual integration allows teams to see immediate benefits, reducing fears and fostering a culture of innovation. Ultimately, the key to success with AI is to “map your process” first, ensuring that you're automating well-thought-out systems rather than perpetuating inefficiencies.

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