In a year marked by economic uncertainty, shifting tariffs and geopolitical instability—not to mention ongoing speculation about a potential recession—nonprofit organizations must navigate a uniquely challenging environment.

As a leader in the nonprofit education and advocacy space, I believe that now, more than ever, nonprofit organizations must embrace strategic flexibility while making thoughtful long-term investments. Success in 2025 and beyond will depend on four core priorities: education, relationships, diversification and transparency.

A Renewed Focus on Education

Regardless of sector—finance, healthcare, energy, environment, transportation or technology—nonprofits must make education a foundational priority. With high turnover in both public and private institutions, we are seeing significant knowledge gaps emerge across industries.

This is an opportunity for nonprofit organizations to step into this vacuum by helping to educate both the public and policymakers on how industries work, the societal value they provide and how to engage with them effectively. This “back to basics” approach ensures that a new generation of decision-makers and stakeholders is equipped with the tools they need to make informed choices.

Investing in Relationships Across the Aisle for Strategic Flexibility

Building and maintaining strong relationships with policymakers, industry leaders and peer organizations is another opportunity for nonprofit leaders. In this politically polarized climate, nonprofit leaders must foster bipartisan relationships that can endure through election cycles and policy shifts.

This ensures open, constructive dialogue on key issues. Peer-to-peer relationships among nonprofits can also help accelerate educational efforts and build consensus on shared goals. Strong networks provide resilience in times of disruption.

Strategic Diversification for Long-Term Resilience

Nonprofits should treat 2025 as a year to diversify—across strategies, investments, human capital and partnerships. Relying on a single revenue stream, funding partner or tactical approach is increasingly risky. Leaders should embrace a portfolio mindset, investing time and resources in varied initiatives that reflect both mission alignment and strategic flexibility.

Read the full article about strategic flexibility for nonprofits by Kirsten Wegner at Forbes.