The Best Tech for Nonprofits in 2025: A Short Guide

Does the “perfect” tech stack really exist?

In the increasingly digital landscape of nonprofit management, leveraging the right tech stack is half the battle to running a successful organization.

Your tech stack is crucial for optimizing operations, enhancing donor engagement, and ensuring sustainable growth. And that’s exactly what we’re getting into today.

This blog post will explore essential software for nonprofits and my recommend top tools.

Whether you're evaluating your current tools or building a new tech stack, the Nonprofit Automation Agency is your go-to resource for a tech stack audit, ensuring your technology aligns perfectly with your mission and goals.

What's the Best CRM for Nonprofits?

What’s a CRM, you ask? Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system is pivotal for any nonprofit looking to streamline donor management and improve fundraising efforts.

While this is probably our #1 most asked question, the answer is always the same – it depends!

Here’s the thing:

Every organization is different and your needs are dependent on a variety of factors ranging from pricing, internal capacity and features that meet the needs of the work that you do.

While your CRM is what we’d call your “anchor” platform, we also believe in a holistic approach to your tech stack.

Example: You might have found what you think is the perfect CRM, but when zooming out, you realize it doesn't have the native integrations with the other software you use or connect to something like Zapier.

This is why all of our services include a Tech Stack Audit of all your software and then comprehensive support in making sure they are all connected.

Essential Technology for Nonprofits

Nonprofits should consider a variety of software to cover all operational aspects, but here’s my go-to recommendations:

• Donor Management: Tools to help keep track of donor information and manage fundraising activities efficiently.

  • Bloomerang - For general donor management and fundraising for nonprofits

  • HubSpot - For marketing, sales, and service software that helps your organization grow without compromise

  • Keela - For nonprofit management including donor communications and project tracking

• Accounting Software: QuickBooks offers tailored solutions for nonprofits looking to manage their finances with precision.

  • QuickBooks - For accounting, invoicing, and tax management specific to nonprofits.

  • Master Your Nonprofit Numbers Course - For financial literacy and accounting training for nonprofit leaders.

• Email Marketing Software: ConvertKit enables personalized communication with donors and volunteers at scale.

  • ConvertKit - For email marketing tailored to creators and nonprofits.

  • GSuite - For email services, cloud storage, and file sharing needs of nonprofits.

• Project Management Software: Notion allows for organizing tasks, projects, and deadlines in a flexible, collaborative environment.

  • Airtable - For organizing databases and managing projects with a spreadsheet-like interface.

  • Notion - For all-in-one workspace and organizational tool

• Operation Management Software: Zapier automates workflows between different tools, reducing manual work and increasing operational efficiency.

  • Dropbox - For cloud storage and file sharing, facilitating operational efficiency.

  • Canva - For graphic design and multimedia creation to support marketing and communication efforts.

  • ThriveCart Learn - For creating and selling online courses, which can be part of educational outreach.

  • TypeForm - For creating beautiful and interactive web forms, useful in data collection and surveys.

  • Zapier - For automating literally everything, connecting various apps and services to automate repetitive tasks within operations.

  Website Management Software: Software like Squarespace and GoLiveHQ offer robust platforms for design, building and maintaining a professional online presence.

  • GoDaddy - For purchasing and managing domain names.

  • GoLiveHQ - For website design and launch services that enhance online presence. Use code: SMALLSHOP10 for 10% off!

  • Squarespace - For website building and hosting

  • ThriveCart - For online shopping cart and sales management, perfect for handling transactions and donations.

• Communication Management Software: Slack and Loom facilitate effective internal and external communication, key for maintaining operational efficiency and stakeholder engagement.

  • Loom - For recording and sending quick videos to clients and students, enhancing communication.

  • Slack - For team communication, ensuring smooth internal operations.

  • SlyBroadcast - For sending voice messages to multiple recipients simultaneously, streamlining outreach. Use referral code: 69447f100 for 100 free credits

• Time Management Software: Zapier automates workflows between different tools, reducing manual work and increasing operational efficiency.

  • Calendly - For smart and automated calendar management, client calls, and appointments.

  • The Daily Page Notebook - For daily planning and organization, supporting operational management. Use code: RACHEL10 for 10% off!

• Fundraising Tools + Resources: Bloomerang and ThriveCart provide key tools and resources necessary for successful fundraising campaigns.

  • Fundraising Template Membership - For monthly access to the best of fundraising and email templates.

  • Fundraise Up - For enhanced online fundraising and donor engagement

What’s the Best Software for Nonprofits?

The best software for a nonprofit often depends on its specific needs; however, universally, tools that offer customization, scalability, and strong customer support stand out. (See above for some of our favorites!)

GSuite is my top choice for excellent for productivity and collaboration.

For creative tasks, Canva offers an intuitive platform for creating marketing materials, while Loom is perfect for quick video communications.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing Your Nonprofit Software

Choosing the right software involves careful consideration. Here are some critical questions to ask:

• Does this software integrate well with other tools we are using?

• Is there scalable pricing available to accommodate our growth?

• What kind of customer support does the software provide?

• How secure is the software in protecting our data and privacy?

• Can the software be customized to meet our specific needs?

Is There Free Software for Nonprofits?

Yes, many software companies offer free or discounted versions of their products for nonprofit organizations. For instance, GSuite provides free access to its collaboration tools for eligible nonprofits, and Canva offers its premium version at no cost to nonprofits, helping them create professional designs with ease. Detailed information about free and discounted software can be found at resources like Kindful's blog on free nonprofit software.

But, it’s important to remember, no software is really FREE. There are always trade offs and sometimes you get what you pay for.

Feeling overwhelmed by messy systems? Let’s fix that.

As your nonprofit grows, your technology should grow with it. If your current software isn’t meeting your needs—or if it’s time to invest in tools that support your mission—Nonprofit Automation Agency is here to help.

We don’t just review your tech stack; we take the time to understand your organization’s goals and the people behind them. Because it’s not just about the tools—it’s about how they empower your team and amplify your impact.

Whether you’re looking to streamline operations, enhance donor experiences, or ensure your data is secure, our Autopilot package offers a holistic approach to aligning your systems with your strategy.

With the right tools and a trusted partner by your side, your nonprofit can achieve more with less stress. Let’s build a tech stack that works as hard as you do.