The Future of Nonprofits is Digital

Let’s be real: if your nonprofit isn’t leveraging the right technology, you’re already behind.

Donors expect mobile-first giving. Boards demand seamless access to information. Staff want feedback and growth.

That’s where technology comes in. The right platforms don’t just save time — they help you raise more money, retain your best people, and govern smarter.

Here are the 3 technology platforms every nonprofit executive needs to future-proof their organization.

1. Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Digital Fundraising Platforms

Fundraising has changed. The old model of calling through donor lists can’t compete with digital platforms that empower your supporters to raise money for you.

Peer-to-peer platforms let your best advocates create personalized fundraising microsites they can share on social media or email. That’s powerful. Why?

  • Donations become more social.

  • Giving becomes mobile-first (over 50% of event donations now happen on mobile; that jumps to 80% on the day of the event).

  • Your reach becomes exponential. One supporter can mobilize hundreds of new donors.

Yes, major gifts still come through traditional channels. But if you’re running events, challenges, or grassroots campaigns, P2P is the engine that drives momentum.

Popular P2P Fundraising Platforms:

  • Classy (great Salesforce integration)

  • Qgiv

  • DonorPerfect

  • Neon One

  • Blackbaud’s Raiser’s Edge NXT & eTapestry

  • Salsa Labs

  • Even Facebook Fundraisers and Amazon Smile play a role

👉 If you’re not investing here, you’re leaving money on the table.

2. Cloud-Based File Sharing for Boards and Governance

Board meetings are stressful enough without chasing email threads or digging through outdated attachments.

Nonprofit executives need board-ready governance tools that make collaboration seamless.

Start with the basics: Microsoft 365 (OneDrive), Google Drive, Dropbox, or Box for file sharing. Layer on tools like Slack or Teams for real-time collaboration.

But here’s the pro tip: when you need true separation between working files and board-level documents, go further with board-specific platforms like BoardEffect or DirectorPoint.

The benefit? Your board gets what they need — clear, timely, organized data — and you spend less time herding cats.

3. Performance Management Software

Let’s talk about talent. You can’t keep top performers without accountability, feedback, and career growth. And no — spreadsheets and once-a-year reviews aren’t enough.

Performance management software creates a culture of accountability and care. It helps you:

  • Track goals and progress.

  • Schedule and document one-on-one meetings.

  • Manage anniversaries and milestones.

  • Collect 360° feedback.

  • Align career development with organizational strategy.

Top Nonprofit-Friendly Tools:

  • BambooHR

  • Lattice

  • 15Five

  • Halogen

  • SuccessFactors

  • Echospan

The best part? These tools give you data — real insights into performance and engagement. That’s gold for nonprofit executives trying to build retention and succession plans.

Final Thoughts: Tech Isn’t Optional Anymore

Here’s the deal: nonprofits that thrive in the future won’t just have passion. They’ll have the right technology stack powering their mission.

  • P2P fundraising platforms will expand reach and revenue.

  • Cloud-based governance tools will make boards smarter and more effective.

  • Performance management software will keep top talent engaged and loyal.

Ignore these, and you risk falling behind. Embrace them, and you set your nonprofit up to scale impact for years to come.

At The Batten Group, we know that great leaders need great tools. That’s why when we conduct nonprofit executive recruitment, we look for candidates who can not only lead people — but also leverage technology to drive mission success.

👉 Ready to strengthen your leadership team? Contact The Batten Group to find executives who can help your nonprofit thrive in the future.

About The Batten Group

The Batten Group’s commitment to finding mission-driven leaders is not just a recruitment strategy—it’s a dedication to the long-term success of nonprofit organizations and their missions. The true art of executive search lies in identifying authentic passion, aligning it with the right expertise, and matching it to the unique purpose of each organization. By doing so, The Batten Group helps nonprofits thrive and drive meaningful, lasting change.

In the nonprofit world, values-driven leadership isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. And The Batten Group is at the forefront of making that essential leadership a reality.

We are a premier national executive search and consultancy firm with more than 75 years of collective experience in nonprofit, philanthropy, and executive recruitment. We specialize in placing transformational leaders in nonprofit, healthcare, higher education, and mission-based organizations across the country.

As experts in recruiting and talent acquisition, our mission is to connect exceptional individuals with purpose-driven organizations—helping our partners achieve their boldest strategic goals.

We believe the most impactful teams are built by welcoming varied perspectives, lived experiences, and leadership styles. That belief is at the core of every search we conduct. By fostering environments where people feel seen, supported, and empowered, we help build stronger, more resilient leadership for the future.

We’d love to learn more about your organization’s goals and how we can support your search for the next transformational leader. Visit thebattengroup.com to learn more, or click here to explore our proven hiring methodology.

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