2025 Pulse of
Donor Relations Survey
The only study that identifies trends, benchmarking insights, and industry data for nonprofit donor relations professionals.
FREE REPORT
Data speaks, strategy listens.
Based on insights from more than 1,000 professionals, the 2025 Pulse Report reveals what’s working, what’s fading, and where nonprofits must focus next to drive trust, retention, and long-term growth.
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What's Inside:
The Pulse of Donor Relations is the only study of its kind—an in-depth, data-driven look at trends, benchmarks, and best practices shaping the donor relations profession. It’s your go-to resource to understand where the field is heading and how your shop compares.
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Survey categories include:
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Organization, department, and role details
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Salary information
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Acknowledgments
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Recognition
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Reporting
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Events
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Engagement
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Budgets, staffing, and team capacity
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Technology and data use
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Much more!
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Key Takeaways in 2025
This year’s report challenges the status-quo and confirms what DRG has been shouting for years: donor relations is not overhead—it’s your nonprofit's growth engine. Here are 5 key takeaways:
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Donor Relations is undervalued
More than 60% of teams operate with fewer than three full-time staff members—despite being responsible for core functions that directly impact donor trust, retention, and revenue.
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Acknowledgment alone isn’t enough
Over 90% of institutions send acknowledgments, but fewer than 60% offer personalized impact reporting. The donor experience is uneven, and donors notice.
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Engagement strategies need transformation
Less than 30% of teams use donor behavior data to shape engagement. Donors expect tailored experiences—and most organizations aren’t meeting that standard.
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Technology and data remain underutilized
Only a third of institutions are using behavior-based data to inform messaging and strategy, leaving opportunities for personalization and stewardship untapped.
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Special Thanks to Awarded
The Pulse of Donor Relations Survey wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our sponsor, Awarded Software. ​We’re endlessly inspired by their commitment to the donor relations profession and their dedication to creating more equitable, meaningful experiences for students and donors alike.
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Awarded is on a mission to make scholarships more accessible for students while simplifying fund management for colleges and universities. Their platform not only connects students with vital financial aid, but also fosters strong donor relationships and streamlines fund management and compliance.
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Thank you, Awarded, for supporting this important work and helping us better understand, evolve, and elevate the field of donor relations.
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