Economists and fundraising experts say a few key indicators can help nonprofits forecast their fiscal health.
Gross domestic product, consumer confidence, employment, the performance of the stock market as well as regional economic indicators offer a window into how donors may behave.
Each month, we provide a rundown of the latest data, with expert analysis on what it means for the fundraising economy. Find the latest updates below.
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Fundraising OutlookJanuary Data Shows Several Warning Signs for Nonprofits and Fundraisers
The stock market swoon could cause donors to reduce giving, experts say. Meanwhile, wage hikes and inflation are putting heavy pressure on nonprofit budgets. -
Fundraising Outlook
As 2022 Dawns, Economy Bodes Well for Giving
The stock market’s strength and growth in GDP mean that even with the Covid concerns upending the globe again, philanthropy is likely to grow. Inflation and decreasing confidence among the wealthiest are worrisome, however. -
Fundraising Outlook
Despite Moderate Economic Growth, Outlook Remains Positive for Year End
Charities face a steady economic outlook as they enter the year-end giving season. Still, the ongoing effects of the pandemic economy could exacerbate long-term downward trends in donor participation, particularly among middle- and lower-income households. -
Fundraising Outlook
Stocks Faltered in September, but Fundraisers Shouldn’t Fret
While jobless rates continued a slow rebound, the stock market in September was topsy-turvy, and consumer confidence remains depressed. -
FUNDRAISING OUTLOOK
Consumer Confidence ‘Collapses’ as Delta Variant Cases Rise
Consumer confidence is down, but the stock market continues to hum along, as Covid-19 cases rise because of the Delta variant. That all means it could be a challenging environment for charities and fundraisers seeking support from average donor households. -
FUNDRAISING OUTLOOK
Inflation and Delta Variant Loom in Otherwise Strong Economic Picture for Nonprofits
Economic output is up nationally, major stock indices continue to grow consistently, wages are rising, and consumers spent money. But lingering inflation and the end of pandemic government aid programs are cutting into household incomes, a potential source of worry for fundraisers focused on smaller gifts, and for charities that provide services to the poor. -
Fundraising Outlook
Key Economic Indicators Show How Charities Are Affected by Split in Recovery for Rich and Poor
Services for the poor will continue to be in high demand and groups that raise small gifts face continued challenges, but organizations that rely mostly on the wealthy for revenue should fare well. -
Fundraising Outlook
Warning Signs Emerge for Fundraisers in Latest Economic Reports
While overall growth remains strong, consumer confidence fell, the stock market was flat, and unemployment remains stuck well above pre-pandemic levels. -
Economic Roundup
First Quarter of 2021 Offers Good News for Nonprofits
The Chronicle’s monthly update on key economic indicators that experts say are important in predicting fundraising results point to continued strong growth as we move into the second quarter of 2021. -
Finance and Revenue
5 Economic Indicators That (Mostly) Point to a Brighter Year for Nonprofits
It’s been a hard 12 months for nonprofits and much uncertainty still lies ahead, but expert say there many guideposts that can help determine what kind of fundraising performance to expect in 2021 and beyond.
