Applying Fundraising Effectiveness Project Insights to Transform How Teams Plan, Invest, and Grow Generosity

The nonprofit sector has more data than ever before—but far too often, it isn’t used to inform meaningful strategic decisions. This session, facilitated by the Chair of the Fundraising Effectiveness Project (FEP), convenes a cross-sector panel of fundraisers, data scientists, and technology leaders to explore how fundraisers can use evidence-based insights to strengthen their decision-making and deepen donor engagement.

A collaboration between the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Foundation for Philanthropy and GivingTuesday, the Fundraising Effectiveness Project is the sector’s longest-running source of trusted data on giving trends and donor retention. Each quarter, FEP produces research and benchmarking resources that help fundraisers understand where growth is happening—and where it isn’t. This panel moves beyond a discussion of the latest findings to focus on how these tools can directly shape day-to-day fundraising practice.

Panelists will share how organizations are using FEP insights to guide campaign planning, support data-driven conversations with leadership, and adapt to a changing philanthropic landscape. Through case studies, real-time polling, and interactive dialogue, attendees will learn how to interpret FEP data and apply it to identify risks and opportunities across their donor base.