In this timely and data-packed episode, Rob Harter sits down with Mitch Stein, Head of Strategy at Chariot, to unpack one of the most important—and fastest-growing—trends in nonprofit fundraising: Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs). With economic uncertainty, shifting donor behavior, and fewer individuals giving overall, nonprofit leaders must understand how to meet donors where they are. And increasingly, that’s through DAFs.
Mitch shares eye-opening statistics, including that nearly 20% of all charitable donations now come from DAFs, totaling $65 billion in grants in 2024 alone. He explains how DAFs work, why donors love them, common misconceptions around payout rates, and—most importantly—how nonprofits can create a clear and effective DAF strategy to increase revenue and donor engagement. If you’re looking to future-proof your fundraising efforts, this is a must-listen episode.
Key Topics Include:
- The explosive growth of Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs), with $326 billion currently held in DAF accounts
- Why approximately 1 in 5 charitable dollars now comes from a DAF
- How DAFs work and the tax advantages that attract donors
- Common misconceptions about DAF payout rates and “hoarding” concerns
- The 10x increase in average gift size when donors switch from credit cards to DAFs
- Practical steps nonprofits can take to build a DAF strategy
- How to leverage DAF Day and integrate DAF messaging into existing fundraising campaigns
Mentioned in This Episode:
This Episode is Sponsored By:
Links to Resources:
- Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com
- Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel
- Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com
- Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com
Subscribe and Share
Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS