Let’s Talk About AI (And How It Can Help Us Do More With Less)

In this episode, I dive into a real, timely conversation with Scott Brighton, CEO of Bonterra — a social good software company helping nonprofits raise and give more through data-driven innovation. We talk candidly about what AI and data can actually do for nonprofit leaders looking to grow their impact, especially when resources are tight.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of “using data” or confused about what AI can realistically do for your small-but-mighty team, this one’s for you.

We talk about the why and the how — and Scott shares some real-world tools, examples, and strategies that can help organizations like yours scale smarter (not harder). This is about doing more of what works, with less burnout.

🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How AI and data can simplify decision-making, not complicate it
• The power of donor insights and predictive retention tools
• What “agentic AI” is — and why it could be a game-changer for small teams

💡 Key Takeaways:

1. AI doesn’t have to be intimidating: Think of data as the fuel and AI as the engine — it’s about support, not complexity.
2. Retention is strategy, not just stewardship: Data can predict which donors are likely to churn and help you intervene before they go.
3. Leveling the playing field: Access to AI-powered tools is no longer just for big organizations. Even small teams can tap into best practices and decision-making intelligence.

🔁 Step-by-Step: Using AI to Boost Donor Engagement

1. Capture the right data – Start tracking basic donor behavior: gifts, frequency, engagement.
2. Use AI to find patterns – Tools like Bonterra’s Optimized Ask analyze data to help you ask for the right amount at the right time.
3. Leverage donor health scores – Predictive models can show which donors are “at risk” so you can take action early.
4. Activate engagement tools – Use agentic AI (e.g., Bonterra's fundraising coach) to personalize donor outreach at scale.
5. Adjust strategy with confidence – Use insights from your data and broader sector trends to fine-tune messaging, timing, and targeting.

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

• Bonterra – bonterratech.com: Social good software helping nonprofits and funders maximize impact.
• Bonterra 2025 Impact Report – A deep dive into donor behavior trends, fundraising resilience, and actionable insights.

Want to work together?

Apply for the Next Level Nonprofit Mastermind, a high-touch coaching and training accelerator for established organizations with $1M+ budgets that are ready to design for impact sustained at scale.

Budget under $1M? Join Elevate and get proven step-by-step playbooks + coaching support to build each of the core elements of your nonprofit's operating system – strategic clarity, a fundraising engine, a high-performance team, and an active and engaged board!

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