The annual Giving USA Report is the longest-running report on philanthropic activity in the United States. Ruotolo is pleased to share some of the trends and findings from this year’s report which was released June 21, 2022!
- American Philanthropy remained strong in 2021 at $484.85 Billion (larger than the size of some countries’ economies!)
- Many challenges were present from 2020 to 2021 – Covid-19 impacts continued, racial and social justice movements continued, and the newest challenge – the highest rates of inflation seen in the US in 40 years…but the economy was still strong in 2021 which allowed for continued philanthropy.
- Giving in 2021 grew nominally but did not keep pace with inflation.
- 67% of all giving comes from individuals – still the strongest group of givers
- Positive 2-year growth for all categories
- Corporate giving is the bright spot in 2021 – due to increased pre-tax profits
- Individuals and Foundations – grew in current dollars and achieved near records 2021 saw many very large gifts from individuals – accounting for close to 5% of all individual giving; Foundations continued their innovation created in 2020
- Corporate Giving – increased in 2021 as pretax profits grew and allowed for expanded philanthropic resources. Additionally, businesses rebounded after 2020
- Health and the Arts saw a rebound in donations in 2021 after the challenges of 2020
- Some sectors that did very well in 2020 saw more moderate support in 2021: Human Services, Education, and International Affairs. But in a two-year period, there was strong growth in all of these sectors
- Areas to watch in the future – giving in the Public Society Benefit area, Foundations, and Animals and the Environment. Giving in these areas tends to be linked to the strong economy
- Technology has taken on an outsized role in philanthropy – hybrid events are here to stay!
- 12% of total giving occurred online in 2021 – this is the first time seeing double digits in this category
- Nonprofits will need to stay agile in this ever-changing environment
- Staffing is also a very challenging new issue in businesses, and is also effecting non-profits.
Overall, the philanthropic landscape continues to be strong in the Unites States. The way donations are given continues to change and nonprofits will need to be flexible to continue to grow.