8 Affordable AI Tools for Smaller Nonprofits

Utsavi Joshi
Feb 28
2 min read

Updated: Aug 19

Smaller nonprofits are often required to manage multiple projects on a limited budget. It’s a constant challenge, but affordable AI tools can make all the difference. Free and affordable AI tools can help you connect with supporters, save time, and create a bigger impact—without needing a tech team or a big budget.

In fact, many tools now offer nonprofit discounts or free starter plans, making them accessible even for the smallest organizations.

Check out the table below for 8 unique AI tools, their features, and how they can help your nonprofit thrive.

Tool	What it Does	Key Features	Example Application
Canva AI	Helps create professional visuals easily.	Drag & drop interface AI design suggestions Free plan available	Create compelling social media posts or infographics to boost engagement
Grammarly	Ensures clear, professional communication.	Grammar, spell check Tone suggestions Free basic tool	Polish your grant applications or donor thank-you letters to strengthen connections.
Zapier	Automates repetitive tasks	Pre-built workflows (“Zaps”) Free basic plan Integrates 5,000+ apps	Automate donor acknowledgment emails after every contribution to save time.
Lumen5	Turns text into engaging videos in minutes	AI-powered templates Text-to-video Free plan	Create donor thank-you videos or share impactful stories from your beneficiaries.
HubSpot for Nonprofits	Simplifies donor management & engagement.	Email automation Donor tracking Free CRM	Track donor engagement and personalize donor updates to boost retention.
ChatGPT	AI-powered assistant for content creation.	Tailored responses Free and paid versions Content generation across formats	Saved time to draft grant proposals, improving appeal success rates.
Otter.ai	Transcribes meetings and donor calls	Free plan	Capture notes from board meetings or donor conversations instantly
Fundwriter.ai	Creates fundraising copy	Nonprofit-specific templates	Draft compelling donation appeals or campaign pages in less time.

Addressing the Gap

Many nonprofits hesitate to adopt AI because of two myths:

“It’s too expensive.” – Reality: Most of the tools above are free or heavily discounted for nonprofits.
“It’s too technical.” – Reality: Today’s AI tools are built with non-tech users in mind—no coding required.

The best way to start is small and specific. If your biggest challenge is donor retention, try HubSpot. If staff are drowning in admin tasks, start with Zapier.

AI as the Great Equalizer

Affordable AI is no longer a luxury—it’s a must-have for efficiency and growth. These tools let your team focus on what really matters: making a difference in the lives of those you serve.

With the right approach, AI can help you:

Save hours every week
Reach more donors with less effort
Strengthen your fundraising campaigns

So, what’s stopping you? Start with one tool today, and watch how small changes add up to a bigger impact.

Next Step: Want personalized guidance on building an AI strategy for your nonprofit? Contact the CLASS Consulting Group, trusted advisor to board and leadership teams of nonprofits since 2002.