Nonprofit Events in 2025: Why In-Person and Hybrid Events Are the Smartest Investment This Year
After years of virtual galas and Zoom-based fundraising, the nonprofit event landscape has entered a new era. It’s one defined by the undeniable power of personal connection. If your organization is looking to not only meet but exceed fundraising goals this year, it’s time to rethink how you approach event strategy.
According to recent data, nonprofits that host in-person or hybrid events consistently outperform those sticking solely to virtual formats. Why? Donors are craving authentic, in-person experiences again. In fact, 44% of nonprofit leaders surveyed said their supporters attended only in-person fundraising events last year, a sharp increase over previous years.
What does this mean for your organization?
In-Person and Hybrid Events Drive Results
Fundraising is about relationships, and nothing fosters connection quite like gathering face-to-face. The data proves it:
51% of nonprofits hosting in-person or hybrid events met their fundraising goals.
Groups that didn’t host any events last year? Only 9% of them beat their fundraising goals.
Virtual events still have their place, especially for accessibility and expanding reach, but they can’t fully replace the emotional connection that happens when supporters share a meal, hear a heartfelt story, or participate in a live auction.
How to Maximize Event Success in 2025
If you’re planning events this year, here’s how to ensure they thrive:
1. Prioritize Purpose-Driven Experiences
Don’t host events just for tradition’s sake. Every event should have a clear goal, whether that’s raising critical funds, cultivating new donors, or deepening relationships with existing supporters.
Pro Tip: Host smaller, mission-focused gatherings like donor appreciation dinners or behind-the-scenes impact tours. These intimate settings create powerful donor moments.
2. Think Hybrid for Maximum Flexibility
Hybrid events let you capture the best of both worlds, personal connections with in-person attendees and expanded reach through virtual participation. Invest in quality streaming services to make remote attendees feel just as valued.
Pro Tip: Offer exclusive content or digital swag for virtual participants to keep them engaged.
3. Short, Impactful Programs Are In
Attention spans are short, and packed schedules are the norm. Keep your program tight. Aim for 90 minutes or less and focus on powerful storytelling and mission moments. End the night on a high note, leaving donors feeling inspired and connected to your cause.
4. Leverage AI to Save Time and Personalize Outreach
Nonprofit leaders are busy, and many are exploring how AI tools can help lighten the load. Whether you’re using AI to draft compelling event invitations, segment donor lists, or personalize post-event thank-you emails, automation can free up time for more high-impact work.
Pro Tip: Start small. Use AI to generate ideas for fundraising appeals or draft event follow-ups. The key is to maintain an authentic human touch.
5. Engage Donors Before, During, and After Your Event
The most successful events aren’t just one-night affairs. They’re part of an ongoing donor engagement strategy.
Before: Send personal invitations, offer early access to auctions, and promote matching gift opportunities.
During: Create memorable experiences that connect donors to your mission. For example, hold a “kitten corral” at an animal welfare event or a hands-on activity related to your cause.
After: Follow up quickly with personalized thank-you notes and share the event’s fundraising impact.
Pro Tip: Text-based thank-yous and updates often outperform emails, especially with younger donors.
Success = Authentic Engagement
In 2025, successful nonprofit fundraising is all about creating meaningful moments, both in-person and online, that remind donors why your mission matters. With careful planning, strategic hybrid options, and a focus on authentic engagement, your events can do more than raise money. They can build lasting communities of passionate supporters.
Ready to elevate your fundraising events this year? Julep’s CRM platform helps nonprofits like yours streamline event management, personalize donor outreach, and turn one-time attendees into lifelong advocates.