How to use AI to fundraise on GoFundMe
Technology is changing how we connect, create, and even raise money. Today, artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the most talked-about new elements in fundraising. From personalizing donor outreach to speeding up content creation, AI is showing up in campaigns big and small. Today, nearly half of nonprofits are using AI in some capacity to boost engagement, craft messages, and support their work.
On platforms like GoFundMe, AI can help turn ideas into clear plans, support your storytelling, and make donor communication feel more thoughtful and consistent. Whether you want help organizing your thoughts, drafting messages, or planning how to share your work, AI can save time and help your fundraiser feel more accessible. As fundraisers and nonprofit professionals increasingly turn to these tools, many are seeing noticeable improvements in outreach and efficiency.
How to use AI for fundraising on GoFundMe
There’s no doubt that AI is changing the digital landscape, as well as the world beyond it. Here are some tips on how to use this valuable tool to make your next fundraiser as effective as possible.
Getting organized before your fundraiser
Before your fundraiser goes live, it helps to have a clear plan. Taking time to think through your fundraising goals, your story, and how you’ll share your progress sets a strong foundation. From there, AI tools like ChatGPT can help you map out that process.
Ask for help breaking your project into smaller sections like expenses, timelines, and key messages. You might tell an AI tool: “Help me list categories of costs and what I want to share first on my fundraiser page.” Structuring your ideas this way creates clarity and can build confidence before you start sharing your fundraiser with the world.
Writing a fundraiser description
Your fundraiser description is the heart of your story. With AI, you can tap into prompts that help you find your voice while keeping your message clear. Describe who you are raising for, what the support will help with, why it matters, and how donors can make a difference.
AI tools can help draft or revise this text, and even adjust the tone so your words feel warm and sincere. After generating a version, always read it back with your own voice in mind – make sure it sounds like you.
Crafting updates for donors
Regular updates are a good way to honor those who’ve supported you. They let people see what’s happening, how things are evolving, and how their contributions have helped.
Use AI to brainstorm ideas for updates or draft a first version that you can personalize. For example, tell AI: “Write an update that shares gratitude and a small milestone from week two.” Then add in photos, a short reflection, or a personal note. When donors are kept in the loop, they often feel more connected to your journey.
Social media and creating posts
Sharing your fundraiser through social media helps your story reach a wider audience. AI can help tailor messages for different platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or X so they feel natural in each space and cohesive across platforms.
For example, you might ask: “Give me four social posts that are engaging, clear, and respectful for friends and family.” Then edit the ideas to make them reflect your voice and values. Keep messages honest and simple, and remember that a gentle ask shared with care can encourage support without pressure.
Creating images and stories
Visuals help tell your story in ways words sometimes can’t. While GoFundMe doesn’t create images for you, AI can help you plan which photos to include and suggest captions or short scripts for video updates.
Think about what will help people feel connected to your cause – whether it’s a meaningful moment, a detail that shows impact, or a simple image with a caption that brings your work to life. You can prompt AI to generate caption ideas or suggest ways to pair visuals with heartfelt messages that align with your fundraiser’s purpose.
Setting up your fundraiser
Once you’ve gathered your ideas and crafted your message, it’s time to set up your fundraiser. Before you publish, make a simple timeline: when you’ll launch, when you’ll post updates, and how you’ll share progress. AI can help you draft that timeline or suggest ways to stay organized with reminders and content ideas.
Think of it as a planning partner that helps you remember steps you might otherwise forget when you’re juggling a lot. A little structure early on can help the whole process feel simpler and more intentional.
Improving clarity, trust, and safety
When you use AI, it’s important to keep your voice at the center. AI is a tool, not a replacement for your lived experience and understanding of your cause. Always double-check facts, numbers, and personal details so nothing feels exaggerated or unclear. Donors trust transparency, so make sure your words reflect genuine intention. If AI suggests text that isn’t true or doesn’t match your situation, edit it until it does.
It’s important to respect privacy too. If you’re fundraising for someone else or need to share personal details, make sure you have permission and that everyone is comfortable with what’s shared. AI can help with wording, but thoughtful human choices keep your fundraiser grounded and trustworthy. When readers feel truth and care in your message, trust grows naturally, leading to a successful fundraiser.
Things to keep in mind when using AI for fundraising
AI can be a helpful partner, but it also has limits. Use it to support your own ideas, not replace them. Always check that the information generated is accurate and aligns with your voice and values.
Respect privacy and consent, especially when sharing details about others. If you’re fundraising for someone else or a group, make sure they’re comfortable with what’s communicated. Be careful with personal data when you ask AI for help, and don’t share sensitive information that isn’t needed to shape your message.
Above all, use AI to help you think, but not to tell your story for you. Your authenticity and intention are what build trust with those who read and support your fundraiser. Philanthropy comes from the heart, so be sure that when using AI, you don’t lose that connection.
Get started with AI fundraising
AI doesn’t replace you, your reason for fundraising, or your personal touch, but it can be a helpful tool to make the journey feel easier and more organized. From planning and storytelling to updates and social sharing, these tools help clear space so you can focus on connection and impact.
If you’re curious about using AI to enhance your GoFundMe fundraiser, start with one small step. Try a prompt to organize your thoughts, then build from there. Your story, shared with intention and clarity, can reach people in meaningful ways.
AI & fundraising: FAQs
What are the costs associated with using AI tools in fundraising?
Most AI tools offer basic features at no charge, with optional paid plans for more advanced support. The real value comes from how much time and energy they can save, helping you focus more on connection and less on logistics.
What type of data is necessary for AI fundraising tools to function effectively?
AI tools work best with simple information, like your fundraiser’s purpose, timeline, and key messages. They don’t need sensitive personal details to be helpful. Clear context allows AI to support planning and communication, while keeping privacy and trust intact.