Public Funding Cuts Are Here. Can DAFs help?

Across the country, nonprofits are scrambling to adapt. The latest federal budget includes deep cuts to social services, education, scientific research, the arts, and more. From cancelled NSF grants to revoked NEA funding, organizations are watching public dollars—once reliable—suddenly disappear.

According to the Chronicle of Philanthropy, emergency appeals are rising sharply. Inside Philanthropy reports that funders are being urged to "step into the breach" as government support recedes.

If your organization is feeling the effects of these changes, donor-advised funds (DAFs) represent a critical resource—one that too often goes untapped.

Here's how your nonprofit can get in front of DAF donors and secure new funding with Daffodil. 

Understand the Power and Flexibility of DAFs

DAFs are fast and flexible—unlike government grants or private foundations, DAFs don’t require months of review or formal applications. When a donor recommends a grant from their DAF, the sponsoring organization verifies your nonprofit’s status and sends the funds. 

What does this mean for you?  DAF donors can act quickly when they learn about a timely need—but only if they know you exist.

✅ Make sure your nonprofit is visible. Claim your free Daffodil profile so that values-aligned donors can discover your work.

Help Donors Understand What You Need

Many DAF donors are asking: Where will my dollars make the biggest difference right now? What impact can I have? 

Be clear in your messaging:

• Do you need bridge funding to maintain services while you seek new grants?
  

• Are you seeking multi-year support to restructure your programs?
  

• Have you lost a specific public contract that supported a vital service?

Framing your needs around outcomes and your future planning inspires trust. Focusing on the shortfall doesn’t emphasize what you need the dollars to achieve!  

What’s Next for Nonprofits and DAFs

This year’s budget shifts are significant.  Many organizations are looking to DAF donors and their assets to step in: there are an estimated 2 million donor-advised fund accounts across the country, with over $250 billion eligible charitable dollars.

Daffodil exists to help nonprofits like yours connect with those funds.

Set up your free profile, explore resources, and position your organization to be found by mission-driven donors.

👉 Claim your profile on Daffodil

P.S. Curious to learn more about DAFs and how to get started with Daffodil? Click here to chat directly with us.