Nonprofit Technology Trends for 2024

Every year, we keep an eye on nonprofit technology trends in order to provide the best recommendations and provide high quality support to our clients. In 2023, we saw robust CRM systems come into the market with an array of robust features including built-in websites. In 2024, we’re going to see more of these options which will change the way we think about what’s available at different nonprofit growth levels. The days of only mid-sized and large organizations having access to fully integrated systems are coming to an end. Smaller, stable organizations are going to see more options available that will help grow the organization at an affordable price range.

CRM Trends

There have been tremendous investments going on in the nonprofit technology field, creating a plethora of CRMs and member management platforms. In 2023, we saw many organizations moving away from open source options, towards “all in one” systems offering different support models with less technical lift required. In 2024, this evolution will likely continue. We’ll see more consolidation of individual solutions, incorporating new features while “sunsetting” older systems.

Website / CMS Trends

In 2023, we saw a trend of smaller nonprofits with simple websites opting to move away from complex CMSes like WordPress or Drupal, and shifting towards more “do-it-yourself” platforms (such as Wix, Webflow, or Squarespace). These tools can be cost-effective for budget-conscious organizations, but they still have relatively limited functionality today compared to the larger CMS options. Those certainly still have their place, especially for member-focused and advocacy organizations – volunteers, members, and board members expect easy access to personalized information, resources, and reports via robust login portals. In 2024, we expect to see the DIY platforms work to keep up with the needs of larger orgs, beginning to add more portal features and other integration options.

Ticketing Trends

From our work with museums, gardens, and other cultural organizations over the years, we know good ticketing systems that integrate well with fundraising, marketing, and CRM tools have been few and far between. We’re now beginning to see some growth in this area, with more standalone ticketing systems creating solid CRM partnerships and integrations, and expect to see more of this happening in 2024.

Cloud-Based Computing Trends

Since the pandemic, a large number of nonprofits have moved to cloud-based solutions instead of desktop applications. With hybrid / remote work becoming prevalent, cloud computing is more important than ever. In 2024, nonprofits will need to get off computers and onto the cloud. Spreadsheets or an old custom-designed database running from a local computer will become obsolete in the next year. Even smaller nonprofits can easily get onto a cloud-based system offering a CRM, email services, and a website at a reasonable price. It’s worth pushing for in 2024, if your organization hasn’t started the process.
What Does This Mean for Mission Delivery Systems in 2024?

In 2024, we will see more companies offering robust CRM systems with websites built in. We’ll have less piecemeal systems that require integrations. This is a direction that’s going to help nonprofits be more efficient and effective in their use of technology. It will allow more staff members to be able to contribute, manage, and interact with the technology. This will particularly help smaller / newer organizations adopt one system early that will help them grow until their needs become complex enough to warrant a more customized approach.

Start Planning Now

Start planning for technology changes now, so you can assess the needs of your organization and get funding in place to at least start the process in 2024. Every year we work with hundreds of nonprofits to help choose and implement new systems. We will strategize with you, plan out the phases of implementation based on your budget, and be your partner through the process so your whole team will be ready. Contact us today and/or get access to our interactive adventure; Nonprofit Technology Options: Avoid Buyer’s Remorse and Focus On Your Mission.