GITNUX REPORT 2024

Key Nonprofit Statistics: Impact, Challenges, and Contributions in the US

Exploring the vast landscape of nonprofit statistics reveals challenges and impact in the sector.

Author: Jannik Lindner

First published: 7/17/2024

Statistic 1

69% of nonprofits report having to reduce their services due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Statistic 2

37% of nonprofits report having to reduce staff due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Statistic 3

45% of nonprofits report having to dip into their reserves due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Statistic 4

33% of nonprofits report having to reduce their programs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Statistic 5

42% of nonprofits report having to cancel a major fundraising event due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Statistic 6

52% of nonprofits report an increase in demand for their services due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Statistic 7

Nonprofits contribute an estimated $1.1 trillion to the US economy annually.

Statistic 8

The nonprofit sector employs 12.3 million people, accounting for 10.2% of the private workforce.

Statistic 9

The average nonprofit CEO salary is $123,362.

Statistic 10

63% of nonprofits say that retaining staff is a significant challenge.

Statistic 11

42% of nonprofits plan to hire more staff in the coming year.

Statistic 12

The average nonprofit CEO tenure is 6 years.

Statistic 13

52% of nonprofits struggle to recruit and retain qualified staff.

Statistic 14

The average nonprofit employee salary is $50,000.

Statistic 15

The average nonprofit has 15 full-time employees.

Statistic 16

31% of nonprofits have an annual budget under $100,000.

Statistic 17

56% of nonprofits have 3 months or less of cash reserves.

Statistic 18

85% of nonprofits say they don't have enough funding to meet demand for their services.

Statistic 19

The average nonprofit spends 79% of its budget on programs and services.

Statistic 20

70% of nonprofits say that funding is their biggest challenge.

Statistic 21

The average nonprofit has 6 different funding sources.

Statistic 22

The average nonprofit spends 10% of its budget on fundraising.

Statistic 23

The average nonprofit spends 15% of its budget on administrative costs.

Statistic 24

Charitable giving in the US reached $449.64 billion in 2019.

Statistic 25

72% of charitable contributions come from individual donors.

Statistic 26

The average charitable contribution per US household is $2,514.

Statistic 27

Online giving grew by 21% in 2020 compared to 2019.

Statistic 28

The average donor retention rate for nonprofits is 45%.

Statistic 29

The average monthly donor gives 42% more in one year than one-time donors.

Statistic 30

The average nonprofit donor gives to 4.5 charities.

Statistic 31

The average nonprofit spends $0.20 to raise $1.

Statistic 32

The average nonprofit donor retention rate is 45.5%.

Statistic 33

The average monthly gift to a nonprofit is $52.

Statistic 34

Only 45% of nonprofits have a formal fundraising plan.

Statistic 35

The average nonprofit donor gives $737 per year.

Statistic 36

77% of nonprofits say that fundraising is a significant challenge.

Statistic 37

Only 40% of nonprofits have a formal succession plan for their executive leadership.

Statistic 38

The average nonprofit board has 15 members.

Statistic 39

47% of nonprofits report having a formal diversity, equity, and inclusion policy.

Statistic 40

Only 23% of nonprofits have a formal risk management plan.

Statistic 41

76% of nonprofits collect data to measure their programs' effectiveness.

Statistic 42

54% of nonprofits report having a strategic plan.

Statistic 43

The average nonprofit board member serves for 3.8 years.

Statistic 44

87% of nonprofits say that impact measurement is important to their organization.

Statistic 45

The average nonprofit board meets 7.7 times per year.

Statistic 46

Only 19% of nonprofits say they are very effective at measuring and communicating impact.

Statistic 47

Only 36% of nonprofits have a formal board member orientation program.

Statistic 48

Only 24% of nonprofits have a formal succession plan for their board chair.

Statistic 49

The average nonprofit board is 58% female and 42% male.

Statistic 50

77% of nonprofits report using social media for marketing and communications.

Statistic 51

The average nonprofit email open rate is 25.17%.

Statistic 52

The average nonprofit website conversion rate is 17%.

Statistic 53

Only 26% of nonprofits have a formal crisis communication plan.

Statistic 54

73% of nonprofits say that technology is important to their long-term success.

Statistic 55

Only 30% of nonprofits have a formal marketing plan.

Statistic 56

Only 13% of nonprofits say they have the right technology to be effective.

Statistic 57

The largest nonprofit subsector is Human Services, representing 35.2% of all public charities.

Statistic 58

64% of nonprofits say that collaborating with other organizations is important to their success.

Statistic 59

There are approximately 1.54 million nonprofits registered in the United States.

Statistic 60

Only 5% of nonprofits say they are very confident in their ability to meet the demand for their services in the coming year.

Statistic 61

Volunteers contribute an estimated $187.7 billion worth of services annually.

Statistic 62

44% of millennials prefer to volunteer their skills or expertise to causes they care about.

Statistic 63

25% of Americans volunteer their time to nonprofit organizations.

Statistic 64

Only 40% of nonprofits have a formal volunteer management program.

Statistic 65

The average nonprofit volunteer contributes 52 hours per year.

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Summary

  • There are approximately 1.54 million nonprofits registered in the United States.
  • Nonprofits contribute an estimated $1.1 trillion to the US economy annually.
  • The nonprofit sector employs 12.3 million people, accounting for 10.2% of the private workforce.
  • Charitable giving in the US reached $449.64 billion in 2019.
  • 69% of nonprofits report having to reduce their services due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • 31% of nonprofits have an annual budget under $100,000.
  • Volunteers contribute an estimated $187.7 billion worth of services annually.
  • The largest nonprofit subsector is Human Services, representing 35.2% of all public charities.
  • 72% of charitable contributions come from individual donors.
  • The average charitable contribution per US household is $2,514.
  • 56% of nonprofits have 3 months or less of cash reserves.
  • Only 40% of nonprofits have a formal succession plan for their executive leadership.
  • 77% of nonprofits report using social media for marketing and communications.
  • The average nonprofit board has 15 members.
  • 44% of millennials prefer to volunteer their skills or expertise to causes they care about.

Hold onto your hats, folks! Were diving deep into the wild world of nonprofits with eye-popping statistics that will make you rethink your next donation strategy. Did you know that there are a staggering 1.54 million nonprofits registered in the United States, contributing a jaw-dropping $1.1 trillion to the economy annually? Brace yourself for more mind-boggling numbers as we uncover the highs, lows, and everything in between of the nonprofit sector in this riveting blog post.

COVID-19 Impact

  • 69% of nonprofits report having to reduce their services due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • 37% of nonprofits report having to reduce staff due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • 45% of nonprofits report having to dip into their reserves due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • 33% of nonprofits report having to reduce their programs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • 42% of nonprofits report having to cancel a major fundraising event due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • 52% of nonprofits report an increase in demand for their services due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Interpretation

In an era where helping hands are most needed, it seems the hands themselves are being tied. The COVID-19 pandemic has dealt a tough blow to nonprofits, with services, staff, reserves, programs, and even glamorous fundraising events falling victim to its insidious grip. Despite the challenges, the demand for their services has only surged, highlighting the paradox of doing more with less. As these organizations navigate uncharted waters, one thing is clear: the resilience and adaptability displayed by nonprofits in the face of adversity is nothing short of remarkable.

Economic Impact

  • Nonprofits contribute an estimated $1.1 trillion to the US economy annually.

Interpretation

In a world where the dollar sign usually commands attention, let's shift the spotlight to the heart sign. The $1.1 trillion contribution by nonprofits to the US economy is more than just a figure; it's a testament to the immeasurable value of compassion, dedication, and positive change. Behind every dollar lies a story of hope restored, injustice challenged, and communities uplifted. So next time someone asks you about the financial impact of nonprofits, remind them that these organizations are not just balancing the books, but also enriching the souls of a nation.

Employment

  • The nonprofit sector employs 12.3 million people, accounting for 10.2% of the private workforce.
  • The average nonprofit CEO salary is $123,362.
  • 63% of nonprofits say that retaining staff is a significant challenge.
  • 42% of nonprofits plan to hire more staff in the coming year.
  • The average nonprofit CEO tenure is 6 years.
  • 52% of nonprofits struggle to recruit and retain qualified staff.
  • The average nonprofit employee salary is $50,000.
  • The average nonprofit has 15 full-time employees.

Interpretation

In the world of nonprofits, where hearts are big but budgets are often tight, the statistics paint a revealing portrait. With over 12 million dedicated souls working to make a difference, it's clear that the sector is a force to be reckoned with, comprising a significant chunk of the private workforce. Yet, the struggle to retain talent is a constant challenge, as evidenced by the majority of organizations citing it as a top concern. Even with the average CEO pulling in a respectable six-figure salary, recruiting and retaining skilled staff remains a hurdle for many. As nonprofits look towards the future, the intent to expand their teams is clear, but the path to finding and keeping the right people may prove to be the true test of their resilience. After all, in a world where passion meets pragmatism, it's the people that truly drive the mission forward, one heartfelt endeavor at a time.

Financial

  • 31% of nonprofits have an annual budget under $100,000.
  • 56% of nonprofits have 3 months or less of cash reserves.
  • 85% of nonprofits say they don't have enough funding to meet demand for their services.
  • The average nonprofit spends 79% of its budget on programs and services.
  • 70% of nonprofits say that funding is their biggest challenge.
  • The average nonprofit has 6 different funding sources.
  • The average nonprofit spends 10% of its budget on fundraising.
  • The average nonprofit spends 15% of its budget on administrative costs.

Interpretation

In the world of nonprofits, the numbers paint a vivid picture of the tightrope act they perform daily. With 31% operating on a budget under $100,000, and 56% having a mere 3 months or less of cash reserves, it's clear that financial stability is a luxury many can't afford. Yet, despite their valiant efforts, 85% find themselves grappling with insufficient funding to meet the ever-growing demand for their crucial services. The average nonprofit may spend a hefty 79% of its budget on programs and services, but with 70% citing funding as their biggest challenge, it's a game of financial juggling they must adeptly navigate. Fortunately, they are resourceful beings, tapping into an average of 6 different funding sources, devoting 10% to fundraising, and 15% to administrative costs. It's a delicate dance of financial stewardship and unwavering dedication that keeps these organizations afloat in the unpredictable seas of charitable giving.

Fundraising

  • Charitable giving in the US reached $449.64 billion in 2019.
  • 72% of charitable contributions come from individual donors.
  • The average charitable contribution per US household is $2,514.
  • Online giving grew by 21% in 2020 compared to 2019.
  • The average donor retention rate for nonprofits is 45%.
  • The average monthly donor gives 42% more in one year than one-time donors.
  • The average nonprofit donor gives to 4.5 charities.
  • The average nonprofit spends $0.20 to raise $1.
  • The average nonprofit donor retention rate is 45.5%.
  • The average monthly gift to a nonprofit is $52.
  • Only 45% of nonprofits have a formal fundraising plan.
  • The average nonprofit donor gives $737 per year.
  • 77% of nonprofits say that fundraising is a significant challenge.

Interpretation

In a world where giving back is both a virtue and a puzzle, the numbers tell a complex tale of generosity and strategy. From the towering $449.64 billion in charitable donations to the quirky fact that the average donor supports 4.5 charities, it's clear that philanthropy is a multifaceted dance. With online giving on the rise and the average nonprofit spending only $0.20 to raise $1, the stakes are high yet the potential is great. But as 77% of nonprofits grapple with the challenge of fundraising, it's evident that the key to success lies not just in dollars, but in dedication and innovation.

Governance

  • Only 40% of nonprofits have a formal succession plan for their executive leadership.
  • The average nonprofit board has 15 members.
  • 47% of nonprofits report having a formal diversity, equity, and inclusion policy.
  • Only 23% of nonprofits have a formal risk management plan.
  • 76% of nonprofits collect data to measure their programs' effectiveness.
  • 54% of nonprofits report having a strategic plan.
  • The average nonprofit board member serves for 3.8 years.
  • 87% of nonprofits say that impact measurement is important to their organization.
  • The average nonprofit board meets 7.7 times per year.
  • Only 19% of nonprofits say they are very effective at measuring and communicating impact.
  • Only 36% of nonprofits have a formal board member orientation program.
  • Only 24% of nonprofits have a formal succession plan for their board chair.
  • The average nonprofit board is 58% female and 42% male.

Interpretation

In a world where statistics speak volumes, it seems that nonprofits are navigating a rollercoaster of strategic planning, risk management, and diversity initiatives that could leave even the most seasoned board member slightly dizzy. With formal succession plans for executive leadership and board chairs resembling a rare unicorn, it's no wonder that the average nonprofit board member clocks in at just under 4 years of service. One thing is clear, however, amidst the chaos: impact measurement reigns supreme, with 87% of nonprofits valuing its importance. So as these organizations juggle their 15-member boards, gender diversity, and program effectiveness, perhaps it's time to buckle up and chart a course for a more streamlined and focused path towards success.

Marketing

  • 77% of nonprofits report using social media for marketing and communications.
  • The average nonprofit email open rate is 25.17%.
  • The average nonprofit website conversion rate is 17%.
  • Only 26% of nonprofits have a formal crisis communication plan.
  • 73% of nonprofits say that technology is important to their long-term success.
  • Only 30% of nonprofits have a formal marketing plan.
  • Only 13% of nonprofits say they have the right technology to be effective.

Interpretation

In a world where hashtags carry more weight than headlines and open rates hold more significance than foot traffic, nonprofits are navigating a digital landscape that demands attention to both the heart and the numbers. With social media as their soapbox, email as their digital handshake, and websites as their storefront, these organizations are becoming proficient performers in the complex symphony of online marketing. But as they dance between data and empathy, it's clear that while the majority see the importance of technology and communication strategies, only a brave few have formal plans in place to weather the storms that may come their way. So the question remains, in this game of pixels and purpose, will these nonprofits find the right technology and the right strategies to truly make their impact felt in the digital age?

Sector Composition

  • The largest nonprofit subsector is Human Services, representing 35.2% of all public charities.
  • 64% of nonprofits say that collaborating with other organizations is important to their success.

Interpretation

In a world where helping hands can uplift entire communities, it's no surprise that the Human Services sector stands tall as the largest nonprofit subsector, quite literally shouldering 35.2% of all public charity efforts. However, even these champions of compassion understand the power of teamwork, with a whopping 64% recognizing the importance of collaborating with fellow organizations to weave a stronger safety net for those most in need. It seems in the grand tapestry of philanthropy, unity truly colors outside the lines.

Sector Size

  • There are approximately 1.54 million nonprofits registered in the United States.
  • Only 5% of nonprofits say they are very confident in their ability to meet the demand for their services in the coming year.

Interpretation

With 1.54 million nonprofits frolicking around the United States, it's like a crowded dance floor where only 5% are busting out the moves with full confidence. It's a case of charity roulette, folks – will your favorite cause be the one left struggling to keep up with the demand for its services, or will it be the one leading the pack like a nonprofit ninja? Time to step up the fundraising game, because in this nonprofit jungle, only the witty survive.

Volunteerism

  • Volunteers contribute an estimated $187.7 billion worth of services annually.
  • 44% of millennials prefer to volunteer their skills or expertise to causes they care about.
  • 25% of Americans volunteer their time to nonprofit organizations.
  • Only 40% of nonprofits have a formal volunteer management program.
  • The average nonprofit volunteer contributes 52 hours per year.

Interpretation

In a world where volunteers are worth their weight in donations, it seems the philanthropic landscape is teeming with both eager millennials wielding their skills like magical wands and seasoned Americans selflessly giving their time—often unstructured, since apparently, formal volunteer management is as rare as finding a unicorn in a sea of pandas. Nevertheless, we can take heart in knowing that even in the chaos, those dedicated individuals are clocking in an average of 52 hours a year, surely making the world a better place—one hour at a time. It's a quirky dance of altruism and inefficiency, but hey, who said saving the world couldn't be a little messy?

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