Faith-based nonprofits are navigating rapid change, from the decline of legacy communication channels to the rise of digital engagement.
In this blog post, we explore the key findings shared in the 2025 Faith Benchmark Report webinar, where Virtuous Fundraiser-in-Residence, Carly Berna, and Jaclyn Jones from Masterworks unpack the data shaping donor retention, digital strategy, and long-term generosity in the faith sector.
Faith-Based Donors Are Small but Mighty
A full 38% of all giving came from donors giving under $2,000 annually. That’s a higher share than any other nonprofit sector. That, paired with a median gift of $50, paints a clear picture. Faith-based fundraising is fueled by many, not few.
This wide base of support presents a powerful opportunity but also a challenge. Cultivating mid-level donors and providing dynamic, personalized experiences are essential to unlock deeper engagement and larger gifts.
Donor Retention Remains a Strength
Faith-based nonprofits had the highest gross donor retention rate across all sectors at 59%, compared to an industry-wide average of 50%. This confirms what many ministry fundraisers already know: loyalty runs deep in this space.
Yet, when you zoom in only 41% of first-time donors make a second gift, and those who do take an average of 117 days to give again. This shows an untapped opportunity to shorten the engagement window and turn casual givers into long-term partners.
Donor Expansion and New Acquisition Need Focus
While retention is a strength, donor expansion, meaning getting retained donors to give more, was flat at -0.35% year-over-year. That’s only slightly better than the broader sector average and points to a need for more strategic upgrades and special campaigns.
Worse, new donor acquisition is lagging. Faith-based nonprofits saw just 24% of their active donors coming from new givers, the lowest across all sectors. This signals a major area of risk.
Retention is strong. But if you’re not replenishing the top of the funnel, you’re capping your future growth.
Embrace the Shift, Grow Giving
The 2025 Faith Benchmark Report doesn’t just diagnose challenges, it points the way to transformational change. Responsive Fundraising empowers faith-based nonprofits to create personal donor experiences that scale and last.
Virtuous is ready to help you make the shift. Whether you’re modernizing your data, breaking down silos, or launching a new donor journey, our platform is built for your mission.
Ready To Take the Next Step?
Ready to see how Virtuous could work for your team? Whether you’re mid-evaluation or just exploring, we’d love to help you explore what’s possible. Schedule your personalized demo today.
