By Alex Johnson, March 10, 2026
Pr agency australia
The Evolution of Community Fundraising
Community fundraising is perpetually adapting to the changing landscape of society. The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect various sectors, with DIY fundraising efforts not yet fully recovering to pre-pandemic levels. In contrast, regional corporate partnerships have emerged as a crucial avenue for income generation amidst uncertain financial conditions across the sector. As organizations reevaluate their fundraising strategies, understanding the latest trends in community fundraising becomes essential for any fundraising manager in Australia.
My exploration into community fundraising trends started in 2024 when I dissected the pandemic’s impact on fundraising channels. Data collected through the THINK Community Fundraising Forum highlighted a significant drop in the volume of DIY supporters, even as the average donation value surged from £451 in 2021 to an impressive £708 by 2025—a 57% increase across four years. Despite this encouraging trend in donation amounts, the repeat support rate saw a decline, from 29% down to 28.2%. Moreover, our annual mystery shopping exercise indicated considerable opportunities for improving the stewardship and communications provided post-activity.
Understanding the Current Landscape
In 2026, we once again collaborated with current members of the THINK Community Fundraising Forum to conduct a benchmarking exercise brimming with valuable insights. Here are some pivotal findings that underscore the resilience and challenges within community fundraising.
Income Sources and Investment Returns
The analysis revealed that the average return on investment for community fundraising stands at £3.78 for every £1 spent, showcasing a slight uptick from previous studies. In comparison, the return identified in a CIOF/AAW study conducted in September 2025 was £2.97, while LarkOwl’s report in May 2026 indicated a figure of £3.47. This data reflects the effectiveness of community fundraising strategies, which draw income from a diverse array of sources. Notably, our study found that a staggering 87% of income originated from just seven main streams:
- DIY fundraising – 23%
- Regional corporate partnerships – 16%
- Collections – 13%
- Fundraising groups/branches – 11%
- In-memory fundraising or donations – 10%
- Community groups – 8%
- Third-party challenges/sporting events – 6%
Trends in Targets and Headcount
The average amount raised per Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) was £173,284 (gross). A notable shift towards team-centric fundraising targets emerged, with 38% of respondents incorporating team targets for the first time, compared to none in 2023. This evolution indicates a progressive recognition of the benefits of collaborative efforts in fundraising.
Nonetheless, community fundraising demands considerable resources, evident from our sample’s median headcount, which was reported at 21—down from 30.6 in 2023. The range of staff varied significantly, from 89 FTEs down to a mere five. Despite a reduction in workforce, community fundraising consistently delivers robust returns on investment. Alarmingly, only 30% of teams reported an increase in resources over the past year, while 35% remained static and the remaining 35% experienced a decrease.
Salaries and Employment Challenges
In terms of compensation, the average salary for community fundraising managers has reached £40,685, reflecting a modest increase from £39,996 in 2023, marking a 4.33% uplift across a three year span. The average salary for community fundraisers rose by 12.24%, from £29,993 to £32,991. While these increments may appear commendable, they represent a nominal rise—especially in the context of inflation and the rising responsibilities faced by these professionals. A concerning trend is the real-terms decrease in salaries, further compounded by an increased workload and persistent recruitment challenges that call for attention from organizational leaders.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
The road for community fundraising remains complex, capturing a range of experiences across various organizations. When queried about anticipated investment in the next 12 months, responses revealed a mixed bag: only 5% anticipated significant investments, 42% hoped for moderate contributions, 47% expected no new investments, and 5% were bracing for disinvestment.
A more qualitative approach unveiled what fundraising managers are actively pursuing for future revenue growth. The top three responses revolved around:
- Managing and advancing regional corporate partnerships strategically
- Optimizing the structuring and deployment of resources for maximum return
- Revitalizing DIY fundraising endeavors or creating new products within this category
The persistence of challenges surrounding DIY fundraising cannot be overlooked. Changes in supporter behavior induced by the pandemic continue to face organizations, as highlighted in my 2024 commentary on the necessity for tailored propositions that resonate with target audiences. This shift underscores the importance of adaptability and innovative solutions in a fundraising manager’s strategy.
Conclusion: Navigating the Future
Organizations that successfully navigate the upcoming fluctuations in fundraising dynamics are likely to strike a balance between immediate income generation through regional partnerships and long-term investments in re-establishing traditional, supporter-led fundraising channels. As competition increases, those who embrace innovative approaches and maintain community engagement will be positioned for success.
For those leading community fundraising initiatives in their organizations, the insights gleaned from these findings may prove vital in crafting resilient strategies in an ever-evolving fundraising landscape. Engaging with peers and sharing experiences can unlock further opportunities for learning and growth. If you are interested in joining a senior peer network for community fundraising professionals or wish to explore tailored resources to drive results effectively, consider connecting through the pr agency australia for support and insights.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or legal advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for appropriate advice tailored to your situation.