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This podcast is brought to you by LinkedIn for Nonprofits. We’re so grateful for their partnership. Explore their incredible suite of resources and discounts for nonprofit teams here.

Building Effective Nonprofit Teams to Drive Change (Featuring 2025 LinkedIn Nonprofit Talent Report)

How can nonprofit leaders build resilient, high-performing teams in an era of rapid change, AI integration, and shifting workforce demands? The answer lies in people-powered strategy, and the latest insights from LinkedIn’s 2025 Nonprofit Talent Report.

At this year’s LinkedIn for Nonprofits Talent Summit, experts from the Gates Foundation, Georgetown University, and LinkedIn came together to unpack what it takes to cultivate effective nonprofit teams. The message? Resilience is built with clarity, collaboration, and community.

Communication. Co-Creation. Clarity. (Yes, the Three C’s Matter.)

Betsy Dimalanta, of the Gates Foundation, emphasized the power of over-communication and co-creation. When team members understand the vision and feel part of the process, they show up more engaged, committed, and mission-aligned.

Innovation Starts with Empowerment

Luisa Boyarski, of Georgetown’s Center for Public and Nonprofit Leadership, reminds us that innovation isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a muscle we build. From cross-functional training to designated “creative time” and knowledge-sharing systems, she advocates for embedding innovation into an organization’s DNA before crisis strikes.

And let’s not ignore the human side of change. As organizations pivot and restructure, leaders must hold space for grief, uncertainty, and transition.

Embracing AI- But with People First

The nonprofit talent landscape is rapidly evolving, and AI is part of the equation. The panel agreed: AI should enhance, not replace, human insight. From automating repetitive hiring tasks to crafting compelling donor communications, AI can create space for your team to focus on high-impact work.

But here’s the catch: clarity and training are non-negotiables. Establishing ethical guardrails and fostering open conversations about AI adoption helps reduce fear, build trust, and boost organizational readiness.

Skills Over Resumes

One major shift from the 2025 LinkedIn Nonprofit Talent Report? The rise of skills-based hiring. With a 14% increase in job posts not requiring a degree, nonprofits are embracing a more inclusive, equitable talent strategy, one that values real-world skills over traditional credentials.

At the Gates Foundation, this means hiring for potential and adaptability, then supporting growth through tailored development tracks.

The Big Takeaway: People First. Always.

In a fast-changing world, your greatest asset is your team. Whether you’re managing change, scaling impact, or adopting new tech, never lose sight of the human heartbeat behind your mission.

Resources & Links

This show is presented by LinkedIn for Nonprofits. We’re so grateful for their partnership. Explore their incredible suite of resources and discounts for nonprofit teams here.

Connect with Betsy Dimalanta and Dr. Luisa Boyarski on LinkedIn and check out the 2025 LinkedIn Nonprofit Talent Report.

Learn more about Georgetown University’s Center for Public and Nonprofit Leadership and download their AI Readiness Toolkit for Nonprofits.

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