Marketing is often one of the most underfunded functions in the nonprofit sector, not because it lacks impact, but because leadership struggles to see the ROI. In this session, we’ll show you how to make a compelling, data-backed case for greater marketing investment using insights from the Nonprofit Acceleration Report. Learn how to reframe marketing as mission-critical, align with board priorities, and earn the buy-in you need to scale.

This session will explore how donor-advised funds (DAFs) can evolve to meet the expectations of today’s givers—especially younger generations who value transparency, local impact, and personal connection. Drawing from GoFundMe’s community of 190 million users and $40 billion in donations, we’ll share key insights into how charitable behavior is shifting and how traditional DAFs are falling short of meeting donors where they are. We’ll examine trends such as the growing desire to support individuals, the importance of giving during moments of crisis, and the rising demand for localized, values-aligned giving. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how identity, storytelling, and trust are shaping the future of generosity, particularly among Gen Z donors.

Attendees can expect to walk away with: A clearer picture of what motivates modern donors and how they discover causes. Insight into the growing overlap between personal giving and institutional philanthropy. Inspiration and practical ideas for reimagining DAFs to be more community-centered, responsive, and aligned with the next generation’s values. Ultimately, this session will challenge participants to think beyond traditional models—and toward a future where giving is more human, more connected, and more impactful.