Major gift trends highlight AI, fewer donors, and donor-advised funds in 2025

In 2025, major gift-giving is transforming with AI-driven personalization, strategic impact, and evolving donor behaviors, offering nonprofits new pathways to build lasting connections.

The world of major gift-giving is undergoing a fascinating transformation in 2025, driven by emerging technologies, evolving donor behaviors, and a heightened focus on strategic impact. At the heart of this shift is the growing influence of artificial intelligence, which is helping organizations personalize donor outreach like never before. AI tools now analyze vast datasets to identify giving patterns, predict donor capacity, and even craft customized engagement strategies, making high-value relationships more intentional and data-driven.

While technology streamlines the process, donor demographics are also changing. The trend toward fewer contributors making larger gifts continues to gain momentum, with philanthropists increasingly seeking to maximize their impact through concentrated support. This aligns with the explosive growth of donor-advised funds (DAFs), which offer flexibility for strategic giving while allowing donors to time their contributions for optimal tax and financial planning. DAFs are becoming a cornerstone of modern philanthropy, particularly for younger generations who value both immediacy and legacy in their giving.

Subscription-based models are redefining engagement, offering nonprofits predictable revenue through recurring donations while giving donors a sense of ongoing partnership. Monthly giving programs thrive as supporters appreciate the convenience and organizations benefit from sustained funding. Meanwhile, corporate gifting sees a sustainability revolution, with eco-conscious gifts like biodegradable items, digital subscriptions, and ethically sourced products taking center stage. These choices reflect a global emphasis on environmental responsibility and ethical supply chains.

The rise of limited-life philanthropy and legacy-focused giving adds another layer to the landscape, as more donors establish clear timelines for their philanthropic goals. This shift encourages nonprofits to demonstrate tangible, measurable outcomes to align with donor expectations. Digital gifts and donation-based presents also gain traction, offering a clutter-free, purpose-driven alternative to traditional physical gifts. Whether through AI-curated experiences or environmentally mindful corporate packages, the common thread across 2025’s giving trends is a deeper, more intentional connection between givers and the causes they champion.