I have an exciting announcement – Social Media for Social Good Academy is open for 2025 enrollment! It only opens once per year, so don’t wait. Go to www.socialgoodacademy.com to get all the details. You can enroll in the basic program or upgrade to get a follow-up session one on one with me. Class starts Feb 12th so don’t delay! You will learn:
- How to use the highest performing social media platforms to grow your audience, get more visibility, and drive donations;
- The latest trends nonprofits need to know in social media;
- How to build and grow a community with compelling content;
- How to use AI tools like ChatGPT to create posts;
- How social media fits into an overall digital fundraising plan, including your website and email newsletter.
That’s socialgoodacademy.com and I hope to see you on the inside this year.
Social Media Trends Nonprofits Must Embrace in 2025
The social media world is a whirlwind—constantly shifting, evolving, and presenting nonprofits with new opportunities to connect with their communities. To make the most of this dynamic environment, staying ahead of the trends isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Let’s break down what’s reshaping the digital landscape and how nonprofits can thrive in 2025.
1. AI: The Game-Changer in Social Media
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a cornerstone of effective digital strategy. Yet, its rise comes with mixed emotions, especially for donors who value transparency and personal connection. Here’s how your nonprofit can embrace AI while keeping trust intact:
- Be Open About AI Use: Whether you’re using AI for fraud detection, automating responses, or streamlining operations, make sure your supporters know how it’s helping, not replacing, the human touch.
- Human First, AI Second: Think of AI as your sidekick, not the star of the show. Use it to enhance human interaction, like providing timely responses or analyzing donor preferences.
- Address Concerns Head-On: Donors want reassurance that their data is safe. Highlight your security measures to show you’re prioritizing privacy.
2. Short-Form Video and User-Generated Content: Your Storytelling Superstars
Video is king, and user-generated content (UGC) is its perfect partner. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts make it easier than ever to create bite-sized, impactful narratives. Together, they form a powerful duo for authenticity and engagement:
- Inspire Participation: Launch campaigns that encourage your supporters to share their own stories. Think testimonials, event highlights, or creative challenges tied to your mission.
- Offer Simple Guidelines: Not everyone is a content creator, but with a little coaching, they can shine. Provide tips or templates to make participation easy and fun.
3. Keeping Up With Platform Shake-Ups
The digital playground is constantly shifting, and 2025 is no exception. From policy changes to emerging platforms, here’s what to watch:
- Meta’s New Rules: With Meta transitioning to a “community notes” system, nonprofits need to monitor how these changes might affect content visibility and misinformation concerns.
- Bluesky’s Trending Topics: As Bluesky gains traction, its trending topics feature could become a valuable tool for amplifying your cause. Stay curious and experiment.
- TikTok Uncertainty: If TikTok faces a U.S. ban, have a backup plan. Diversify your content to other platforms like Instagram and YouTube.
4. Social Commerce Meets Advocacy
Social commerce is booming, blurring the lines between engagement and action. For Gen Z, who view social media as both a shopping tool and an advocacy platform, this trend is an incredible opportunity:
- Integrate Shop Features: Enable donations and purchases directly through social platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Convenience matters.
- Fuel Grassroots Advocacy: Empower your supporters with easy-to-share content that amplifies your mission. A single post can spark a ripple effect.
5. Generational Influence: Spotlight on Gen Z
Younger generations, especially Gen Z, are driving change in how advocacy and social media intersect. Meeting them where they are is key:
- Speak Their Language: Gen Z craves authenticity, impact, and purpose. Your content should reflect their values—think bold visuals, concise messaging, and heartfelt stories.
- Leverage Shares: Each share, repost, or tag is a form of micro-advocacy. Capitalize on this behavior to supercharge your fundraising campaigns.
6. AI-Powered Personalization: A Balancing Act
AI’s personalization tools are opening new doors for targeted communication, but they require thoughtful implementation:
- Experiment and Iterate: Use AI tools for tasks like trend analysis, post scheduling, and crafting messages tailored to donor interests.
- Educate Your Team: Equip staff and volunteers with knowledge about AI’s strengths and limitations, so they can use it confidently and ethically.
Final Thoughts
Navigating social media trends in 2025 may feel like juggling fire, but with the right strategies, your nonprofit can turn sparks into a blaze. Lean into AI without losing your human touch, tap into the power of short-form video and UGC, and stay nimble as platforms and policies evolve. Keep your eyes on emerging players like Bluesky, and don’t let uncertainties like a TikTok ban throw you off course.
This year is about embracing innovation and adapting to change while staying rooted in what makes your mission special. With these insights, your nonprofit can not only keep up but lead the way.
If you want to make 2025 a year of growth, connection, and unstoppable momentum, you’ll want to join Social Media for Social Good Academy. It only opens ONCE per year so do not sleep on this!
Go to www.socialgoodacademy.com to get all the details. You can enroll in the basic program or upgrade to get a follow-up session one on one with me. Class starts Feb 12th so don’t delay! You will learn:
- How to use the highest performing social media platforms to grow your audience, get more visibility, and drive donations;
- The latest trends nonprofits need to know in social media;
- How to build and grow a community with compelling content;
- How to use AI tools like ChatGPT to create posts;
- How social media fits into an overall digital fundraising plan, including your website and email newsletter.
That’s socialgoodacademy.com and I hope to see you on the inside this year.