Glossary
Reports & Insights

Giving Trends

By: Alec Hollingsworth
Updated:  
July 16, 2025

Definition:

Giving trends are patterns in charitable donations that help nonprofits understand and respond to changes in donor behavior over time.
Giving trends refer to the patterns and shifts in charitable donations over time, including changes in donor demographics, preferred giving channels, average donation amounts, and popular causes. These trends are shaped by economic conditions, technological advancements, and cultural shifts. Nonprofits analyze giving trends to understand how, when, and why individuals and organizations give. Tracking these trends helps organizations tailor their fundraising strategies, better engage donors, and predict future revenue streams. By understanding giving trends, nonprofits can stay responsive to donor preferences and market forces, ensuring their fundraising efforts remain effective and relevant.

Key Takeaways

  • Giving trends track changes in donation behavior and preferences.
  • They help nonprofits adapt fundraising strategies for better results.
  • Data-driven insights from giving trends can boost donor engagement.
  • External factors like economy and technology influence giving patterns.

Why It Matters

Understanding giving trends helps nonprofits optimize fundraising and respond to donor behavior.

Real World Example

A local animal shelter noticed through its Keela dashboard that online donations increased significantly during the holiday season, while in-person event contributions declined. By analyzing these giving trends, the shelter decided to shift resources toward digital fundraising campaigns and targeted email appeals during peak months. As a result, they saw improved donor engagement and higher overall donations the following year. This proactive approach, based on giving trend analysis, allowed the shelter to maximize fundraising efficiency and respond to its supporters’ evolving preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are giving trends in nonprofit fundraising?

Giving trends are patterns and shifts in donor behavior, donation amounts, and preferred channels over time, helping nonprofits understand how donors are giving.

How can nonprofits use giving trends?

Nonprofits can use giving trends to inform fundraising strategies, target communications, and adapt to changes in donor preferences for greater fundraising success.

How does Keela help track giving trends?

Keela provides analytics and reporting tools that help organizations monitor, analyze, and respond to giving trends within their donor base.

Why do giving trends matter?

Understanding giving trends allows nonprofits to anticipate donor needs, optimize campaigns, and respond quickly to shifts in the fundraising landscape.

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