Why Nonprofit Career Paths Are a Great Choice This Year

What excites you the most about a social-impact career at this moment in time? Let us know in the comments!

If you’re thinking about working in the social-impact sector, you might be wondering what the current job market looks like. Between shifting politics, changing priorities for government aid, and other factors that influence our work, now is actually the perfect time to pursue a nonprofit career path.

Organizations are responsible for filling the gap, so to speak, on countless social issues that are not given priority by government administrations. At these precarious moments in time, individual giving tends to swell, and that's exactly what experts expect to happen this year.

So are you ready to join the sector and get to work doing good? Here's some more information for why finding a nonprofit job is a great choice in 2025.

A positive outlook for the social-impact sector

If you’re a recent graduate looking to get your foot in the door at a social-impact organization, but are worried about stagnating job opportunities, don't lose hope! The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that job openings are above the 3.63% average across the country. While there are many people looking to start a nonprofit career path, there are certain things that you can use to your advantage—showing that you’re adept and experienced in using digital platforms could set you apart in an evolving nonprofit landscape.

To get started while you're still in school, start by exploring different organizations. See if they offer internships or volunteer positions, take informational interviews, and focus on reaching out to people in your network.

If you're looking to break into the nonprofit sector, a lot of the same advice applies. We recommend reviewing your transferable skills first, but it's helpful to connect with social-impact professionals doing work that interests you so you know what potential employers will value.

Trends in fundraising make it an appealing path within the sector

Have you considered fundraising as a specific nonprofit career path?

Fundraisers at social-impact organizations will have to work hard to retain donors, as well as secure larger gifts, as millions of organizations compete for donations; in fact, fundraising is an area that is predicted to grow at a much faster rate than average. The field covers a wide range of activities, including donor research, relationship management, event planning, corporate giving, and grant writing. And changes in how fundraisers work require new skills. If you’re considering a fundraising or development career, this could be an excellent time to start your search or just learn more about the profession.

How the political landscape makes this a great time for change

Every year is a great year for social-impact organizations looking to bring about long-term, positive change, but protecting the environment—and fighting climate change, in particular—are once again at the forefront of the news. Similarly, education initiatives are going to be front and center for years to come. Whether you're interested in ensuring kids are learning enough in school or fighting book bans, there's a nonprofit that could use your help.

Thanks to these shifts, now could be an exciting time to begin a social-impact career. With so many social, educational, and health issues being addressed at the national level, there’s massive potential for partnerships between government and nonprofit organizations. Local nonprofits may be called upon for their expertise in working with their surrounding communities, understanding their needs and concerns, and delivering programs. 

Even if it takes a little longer to land the perfect nonprofit job for you, you can explore the range of nonprofit career paths out there and take advantage of changes in how we work and how our work is valued.