The Future of Faith-Based Fundraising: 5 Trends Shaping Giving in 2025

Faith-based organizations face unique fundraising challenges in today's rapidly changing world. Charitable giving remains strong, yet trends are shifting rapidly, especially in the faith-based sector. To effectively engage your congregation and donors, understanding emerging fundraising trends backed by credible research is essential. Here, we explore five significant fundraising trends for faith-based organizations, supported by data and actionable strategies.

1. Digital Giving Continues to Grow

Digital giving isn't just convenient—it's critical. According to the Lake Institute's 2023 Giving Trends Report, churches utilizing online giving methods experienced nearly 30% higher per-capita donations compared to those without digital giving options (Lake Institute, 2023).

Action Step:

• Implement user-friendly online giving platforms such as Tithe.ly or Pushpay.

• Use impactful storytelling videos on your donation pages to highlight the direct impact of donations.

2. Transparency and Trust: Non-Negotiable Essentials

Trust is essential for donor engagement, yet Edelman’s 2024 Trust Barometer indicates declining public trust in religious and nonprofit institutions. Organizations that prioritize transparency through clear communication and accountability are significantly more successful in retaining donors (Edelman Trust Barometer, 2024).

Action Step:

• Regularly communicate detailed reports on how donations are used through annual reports, newsletters, and storytelling.

• Utilize visual storytelling methods (photos/videos) to transparently showcase donor impact.

3. Recurring Giving: The Key to Financial Stability

Recurring donations offer financial predictability. Nonprofits using recurring giving programs report significantly higher overall donations, with a retention rate nearly double that of one-time giving according to Classy's 2024 Faith-Based Fundraising Trends Report (Classy, 2024).

Action Step:

• Clearly display recurring giving options on your website.

• Share monthly impact stories via email to demonstrate how ongoing contributions make a difference.

4. Engage Millennials and Gen Z with Digital Fundraising

Millennials and Gen Z are generous but prefer digital giving methods. Barna Group research shows that 79% of Gen Z donors discover causes via social media, and authentic storytelling significantly influences their giving decisions (Barna Group, 2024).

Action Step:

• Utilize platforms like Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts to inspire younger audiences.

• Frequently share personal impact stories highlighting individuals whose lives have been positively affected by your mission.

5. Hybrid Fundraising Events Are Here to Stay

Hybrid fundraising events (combining online and in-person participation) surged in popularity during the pandemic and remain vital. Pushpay’s 2024 State of Church Technology Report shows that hybrid events result in higher participation and greater geographic reach (Pushpay, 2024).

Action Step:

• Host events simultaneously in-person and online, leveraging live streaming and interactive digital engagement tools.

• Share compelling event recap videos online to extend engagement and encourage post-event donations.

6. Personalization: Speaking Directly to Your Donors

Modern donors expect personalized communication. Classy's report indicates that personalized experiences result in higher donor retention rates and more substantial long-term relationships (Classy, 2024).

Action Step:

• Segment your donor database to provide customized communications and tailored giving appeals.

• Send personalized thank-you videos or messages post-donation, emphasizing direct acknowledgment and gratitude.

Bringing It All Together: Your Fundraising Roadmap

Staying ahead of these fundraising trends positions your organization to consistently engage and inspire donors. Embrace digital tools, prioritize transparency, offer flexible giving options, and emphasize personalization to ensure sustained support and growth.

At Kolstad Media, we specialize in helping faith-based organizations elevate their fundraising efforts through strategic storytelling and cinematic video content. Our work consistently demonstrates measurable outcomes, significantly enhancing donor engagement and generosity.

Take the Next Step: Tell Your Fundraising Story with Kolstad Media

Ready to amplify your donations through strategic storytelling and impactful media?

Contact Kolstad Media today, and let's create powerful videos that drive real results for your fundraising efforts.