New Blackbaud Institute Report Reveals Key Drivers of Effective Risk Management for Social Impact Organizations

Core Insights - Organizations that prioritize technology and talent investments report significantly lower concerns about managing risk, indicating a correlation between proactive strategies and resilience in uncertain times [1][3]. Group 1: Key Findings from the Report - The 2025 Risk Readiness Report identifies 13 pressing risks in the social impact sector and provides actionable insights for leaders to address these challenges [2]. - A readiness assessment tool is included in the report, allowing organizations to evaluate their preparedness and receive personalized action steps for building resilience [5]. - Three distinct readiness segments are identified: Reactive (23%), Responsive (48%), and Proactive (29%), with proactive organizations showing lower concern and higher preparedness across all risk areas [7]. Group 2: Strategic Insights - Government policy changes and revenue are the top concerns for social impact organizations, with only 30% feeling prepared for these challenges [7]. - Proactive organizations are more likely to have updated strategic plans, engaged boards, set clear fundraising goals, and focused on technology strategy [7]. - Technology is a predictive factor in organizational readiness, with proactive organizations more likely to have upgraded their technology and implemented continuity plans [7]. Group 3: Talent and Staff Management - Staff burnout is a significant challenge, yet less than 25% of organizations surveyed have a staff continuity plan [7]. - Proactive organizations invest in talent, update employee benefits, and improve internal communications to ensure resiliency [7]. Group 4: Resource Allocation and Readiness - Readiness is not determined by organizational size or budget; 57% of proactive organizations have fewer than 100 employees, and 37% report annual revenue under $11 million [7].