AI in Fundraising Hits Ethical Speed Bump, New Report Finds

Report: UK fundraisers are wary of the risks of AI. Charity workers need to be confident in using the tools responsibly and ethically.

Inside the Findings: Ethics Over Efficiency

A new report jointly released by the Chartered Institute of Fundraising (CIOF) and the University of York’s Centre for Digital Innovation in Philanthropy and Fundraising (CDIPF) has spotlighted a major hesitation in the adoption of AI among UK fundraisers. The core reason? Ethical unease.

The research surveyed 78 organizations and conducted in-depth interviews with 21 fundraising professionals. While participants acknowledged that AI could streamline operations and enhance engagement, many remained wary of its risks — particularly around data privacy, transparency, and tool reliability.

Dr. Marta Herrero, the report’s lead researcher and Director at CDIPF, emphasized the gap between technical potential and emotional readiness. “AI-driven technology is capable of offering novel and compelling possibilities for charitable ...