Nonprofits must be prepared for political upheaval. Many aren’t.

 

Kindred Motes

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In the leadup to Election Day in the US, nonprofit organisations face political uncertainty that could dramatically reshape their operations, advocacy efforts, programs, and funding. For organisations focused on civil liberties, human rights, social justice, and environmental protection, this uncertainty comes at an already perilous moment. Regardless of the election outcome, whether these organisations are prepared to respond to the new political environment and administration will determine their ability to navigate the challenges ahead and continue fulfilling their mission. Sadly, it is no longer hyperbolic to say that this preparation may ultimately determine whether they continue to exist at all.

What risks, threats, or changes are looming? To start, a Trump win would likely trigger major policy changes, forcing many nonprofits to pivot their strategies. Results would vary by issue areas and focus of work, but many organisations would immediately feel the weight of an increased burden on their staff and a heightened sense of urgency and need around their services or programs, especially in the legal, direct services, and programme advocacy spaces. During the previous Trump administration, for example, organisations like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) had to constantly defend civil liberties and hard-won legal protections. 

If similar policies return, nonprofits will need to reallocate resources to protect immigration programmes like DACA and affordable housing initiatives. Planned Parenthood and other healthcare-focused nonprofits could face renewed attempts to restrict funding and impose stricter regulations, limiting their ability to serve vulnerable populations. And in either administration, though the degree or extent would vary, environmental organisations would also need to continue their advocacy to protect and advance policies to address climate change. The hyperconcentration of wealth and widening opportunity gap are equally important to address, regardless of outcome or potential administration.

The 2016 election exposed how unprepared many nonprofits were for rapid political changes. Since then, the sector has recognised the need to become more agile. Yet, significant gaps in readiness remain, particularly in digital strategy, funding stability, and staff well-being, as my organisation, KM Strategies Group, found earlier this year when we surveyed many leading nonprofit organisations’ executive staff. Nonprofits cannot afford to be caught off guard again.

Nearly half of the nonprofits we surveyed expressed deep concerns about donor engagement and funding stability, especially under a potential second Trump administration. Political shifts create uncertainty in philanthropic giving, and nonprofits must avoid relying solely on reactive support from progressive donors. To ensure financial stability, nonprofits must actively strengthen relationships with current and potential donors. Engaging supporters before funding becomes scarce is crucial for long-term sustainability, no matter who wins.

More than 70 percent of nonprofits acknowledged that they need to adjust their advocacy strategies in response to possible political changes. Nonprofits must prepare to balance advancing their missions with responding to external policies that may directly contradict their work. Building advocacy strategies that can pivot quickly will allow organisations to stay relevant and effective. Nonprofits that remain agile in their advocacy approach will be better equipped to handle whatever political shifts occur.

The need to improve communication is clear; a staggering 82 percent of organisations told us they expect to overhaul their messaging strategies. In today’s polarised environment, nonprofits must communicate with clarity, relevance, and authenticity. Crafting compelling, persuasive narratives that emphasise the human impact of nonprofits’ work will resonate with both loyal supporters and new audiences. The organisations that thrive will be those that control their messaging, inspire and engage their supporters, and stay focused on their mission without getting distracted or becoming overly reactive to the whims of a given news cycle.

Internal preparedness is just as important as external strategies. Nearly 40 percent of nonprofits anticipate moderate impacts on staff engagement and retention, with burnout concerns rising as election-related demands increase. Leaders must take an active role in supporting their teams, offering clear communication, flexibility, and resources to manage stress. Investing in staff well-being will pay off in productivity, morale, and ultimately, in mission impact. Nonprofits need motivated, healthy teams to successfully and sustainably navigate the months and years ahead.

To face the political uncertainty, nonprofits must act now by developing scenario plans that outline how to adapt to different political outcomes. Preparing for these scenarios ensures that nonprofits are ready to implement strategy changes without scrambling. Nonprofits must increase their online presence and engage effectively through social media and other platforms to maintain strong connections with their audiences; in our increasingly fragmented and virtual world, a robust digital strategy will help organisations stay relevant in today’s fast-paced political environment.

Engaging donors is equally important. Building strong relationships now, before a potential funding crunch, will provide nonprofits with a reliable support network. Funders want to invest in organisations that are proactive, resilient, and capable of weathering political storms. Now is the time to showcase those qualities.

Political uncertainty should not derail the critical work nonprofits do every day. By planning for multiple scenarios, strengthening advocacy and communication efforts, and investing in staff well-being, nonprofits will position themselves to meet these challenges head-on and continue driving meaningful change, regardless of outcome.

Kindred Motes is the founder and managing director of KM Strategies Group, a social impact consulting firm that helps nonprofits navigate strategy, communications, and philanthropic engagement.


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