Debunking AI myths in the nonprofit sector

Why do AI myths in the nonprofit sector exist?

AI myths in the nonprofit sector exist due to misconceptions, lack of awareness, and fear of change. Many nonprofits assume AI is too expensive, too complex, or only for large organisations, preventing them from exploring its benefits. Concerns about job displacement, data privacy, and ethical biases also contribute to skepticism.

Additionally, unrealistic portrayals of AI in media and pop culture – thanks Arnie! – fuel fears of automation replacing human roles. Also, with the nonprofit sector having a history for using more traditional methods to manage their processes, these myths are reinforced, making AI adoption seem daunting.

However, as AI tools become more accessible, affordable, and user-friendly, these myths can be debunked, allowing nonprofits to leverage AI for efficiency, engagement, and impact.

Common AI myths vs reality

Whether we like it or not, myths and conspiracy are rife, especially given the rise of the internet. With AI being a hot topic, it inevitably attracts many theories and ideas – good and bad. In this section, we will be debunking AI myths that commonly occur with reality.

Several common AI myths vs reality include the following.

AI will replace humans completely

This is arguably the biggest fear surrounding AI. With humans requiring a salary, pension, and benefits, many believe that AI is a far attractive – and cheaper – alternative to hiring a workforce. And with human error being a very real factor, many believe that AI would be preferred, replacing the need for human input entirely.

Reality: AI is designed to augment human work

Instead of replacing it entirely, AI is designed to support human decisions. While AI automates repetitive and data-driven tasks, humans are still essential for creativity, ethical decision-making, emotional intelligence, and complex problem-solving.

Example: In nonprofits, AI can help automate donor outreach and data analysis, but human fundraisers are needed to build personal relationships with donors.

AI is only for large organisations

Due to AI being a generally new concept to the not for profit sector, there is a stigma attached that AI-driven software is built specifically for large organisations in mind. This is predominantly down to cost, with the idea that AI would be an expensive solution to invest in, therefore pricing out smaller charities and only being suitable for large organisations.

Reality: Many AI tools are both affordable and scalable

Rather than pricing out small charities, there are solutions in the market that are suitable for charities, making them accessible to small nonprofits, startups, and individuals. Cloud-based AI services can offer pay-as-you-go pricing models, so even small organisations can integrate AI without major investments.

Example: Tools like ChatGPT, Canva AI, and Fundraise Up help small nonprofits enhance marketing, donor engagement, and fundraising without requiring a big budget.

AI can think and feel like humans

This belief dovetails with the notion that AI will replace humans in the workplace. For AI to be successful, many are of the opinion that it must think exactly like a human being. Once this is achieved, there will be no need for human input whatsoever.

Reality: AI does not have consciousness

As AI is devoid of consciousness, this also means that it isn’t capable of emotions or self-awareness. It processes data and mimics human responses but does not actually "think" or "feel." AI operates based on algorithms and probabilities rather than true understanding. With this being the case, AI is used to aid human decision-making, rather than take it away.

Example: AI-generated content (like an AI chatbot for donor engagement) may sound empathetic, but it lacks genuine emotion or personal connection.

AI is too complex for non-tech users

AI is often deemed as a niche area among many, with the firm belief being that only those who specialise in the technological field are able to use it successfully. This is a prevalent assertion among charities, who feel as though that they don’t have the required expertise to use this form of technology to support their processes.

Reality: Many AI tools are designed with user-friendly interfaces

Given the user-friendly nature of many AI tools, they require no coding or technical expertise. Instead, drag-and-drop AI platforms, automation tools, and pre-trained AI models make it easy for nonprofits to use AI.

Example: Canva AI allows users to create AI-generated designs without any graphic design experience, while Google Analytics AI helps organisations interpret website traffic without needing deep data science knowledge.

AI only benefits the tech industry

Due to the technical nature associated with AI, many believe that it’s a form of technology that is exclusive to the tech industry. With AIs ability to analyse trends, people immediately associate this with industries where technology is at its core.

Reality: AI is used across multiple industries

AI’s versatility means that it can be applied across a number of sectors including not for profit. AI therefore supports charities to optimise their operations by improving decision-making, and enhancing donor engagement.

Example: In the nonprofit sector, AI-powered tools assist in grant writing, volunteer matching, fundraising predictions, and impact measurement, helping organisations maximise their social impact.

Our 5 steps to debunking AI myths

The myths surrounding AI can contribute towards a feeling of unease or distrust towards this form of technology, especially from the not for profit sector. That’s why it’s important to not take everything you hear about AI as gospel and treat it with an open mind.

When considering to implement AI, it’s therefore crucial to understand how to deconstruct this information and debunk any AI myths where they occur.

We outline our 5 steps to debunking AI myths below.

1. Do your own research 

Don’t believe everything that you’re told – be inquisitive and do your own research! With any new topic, it pays to be curious and AI technology is no exception. Explore and engage with the information with an open mind, by:

• Following relevant (and reputable) news articles and blogs
• Reading research papers on the topic
• Search for success stories of organisations using AI effectively
• Join AI communities via platforms such as LinkedIn and Reddit

2. Test AI tools firsthand

Once you get a better idea of the theory surrounding AI, the next step is to directly immerse yourself with it. The best approach here is to actively use AI-related platforms that take your interest, in order to experience them first-hand, by:

• Engaging with free trials or demos to see how AI works in practice
• Starting with small, low-risk AI applications (e.g. AI-driven email automation) before committing to larger implementations
• Taking online courses to gain on-hand experience
• Experimenting with online tools such as Chat GPT

3. Consult industry experts

Now that you have an idea of how AI works, you can feel more confident about AI and whether it is suitable to implement for your charity’s processes. You can therefore gain further knowledge, embracing the sector, by:

• Speaking with AI professionals and software suppliers
• Asking organisations that have successfully adopted AI about their experience
• Join forums, webinars, or industry events focused on AI in the not for profit sector

4. Look for affordable AI solutions

There is a common misconception that AI solutions are too expensive for smaller organisations such as charities. And as we outlined in the previous section, this is one of many AI myths. In order to reinforce this, you should look for affordable options to weigh up, by:

• Comparing different AI software providers to find one that fits your needs and resources
• Ensuring you are clear on the pricing structure – including any hidden costs!

5. Address data security and ethical concerns

In addition to the cost, data security and ethics is another topic where AI can be under scrutiny. When discussing costs with a software provider, don’t be afraid to ask questions about security that relate to key areas including:

• What data the AI software will use
• GDPR and regulatory compliance
• Data storage and encryption
• Access controls
• The software supplier’s track record

Find out more about debunking AI myths

It is inevitable that myths surrounding AI will be commonplace and probably won’t disappear anytime soon. That’s why it’s crucial to decipher between myth vs reality by knowing what steps to take when debunking these myths and investigating AI software for yourself.

Are you interested to know more about AI myths? Our team of experts are available to answer any queries and put your mind at rest.