February 17, 2026

Written by Expert Panel^®, Forbes Nonprofit Council Member via Forbes

Measuring the impact of a nonprofit is a complex process. Funders, boards and communities increasingly expect clear evidence that programs are making a real difference. Nonprofits must collect the right data, analyze it effectively and use those insights to guide decisions, often with limited time, staff and resources.

New technologies and data practices are reshaping what’s possible. From artificial intelligence and automation to smarter analytics and integrated systems, these tools can help organizations move beyond static reports toward more timely, actionable insights. Below, members of Forbes Nonprofit Council share emerging technologies and data practices that are poised to meaningfully improve how nonprofits measure and communicate impact in the coming year.

Read the Article

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Arthur Dean Family Foundation has named Dr. River Sturdivant as its chief executive officer. Sturdivant was formerly the organization’s executive director.

Doug Everidge has been selected as development officer at Joy’s House. Everidge was formerly healthcare industry lead at Trendy Minds.

Riley Grimes has been named support group coordinator at Brooke's Place for Grieving Young People, Inc. Grimes was previously a family case manager at the Department of Child Services.

Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation has chosen Maggie Merriman as its new executive assistant. Merriman previously served as the executive assistant to the president and CEO at TCC Solutions LLC.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Indy Arts Council have chosen five Central Indiana artists to create the 2026 Welcome Race Fans artworks, celebrating the program’s 10th anniversary and Indianapolis’ Month of May tradition. The original pieces will be unveiled May 1 and displayed throughout the city, highlighting the intersection of art and motorsports. See the artists.  

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield donated $100,000 to Gennesaret Free Clinics to expand free medical and dental care for uninsured and underinsured Indianapolis residents. The gift supports broader community health efforts. Read more. 

Community leaders, partners, and neighbors gathered last week at the Mary Rigg Food Pantry for a celebratory bread-breaking ceremony marking the grand opening of the center’s newly expanded food pantry. The enhanced space significantly increases the center’s ability to provide fresh food for families on the city’s west side. Read more. 

The 2026 Junior League of Indianapolis Trust Fund grant cycle is now open, with eligible nonprofits able to request up to $5,000 to support programs serving children with mental and/or physical disabilities in Marion County. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 pm on February 20. Apply.

Applications open March 2 for United Way of Central Indiana’s Community Engagement Data Initiative, an eight-month program supporting grassroots nonprofits and faith-based organizations with coaching, tools and a $5,000 grant to strengthen data collection and storytelling. The initiative runs July through Feb. Read more and apply. 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Beyond the Numbers - The Power of Qualitative Data | Webinar

March 2nd | 2–4 p.m.

Quantitative data often plays a critical role in community analysis projects, but the richness of qualitative data such as interviews and historical documents can offer deeper insights. Explore different types and sources of qualitative data and their use, beyond the numbers. Presented by The Polis Center and SAVI. Cost: Free. Register

Maximizing Your Personal Energy Window for a More Productive You | The Sycamore at Mallow Run

7070 W. Whiteland Rd., Bargersville

March 3rd | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

This event will explore how aligning your work with your personal energy patterns, rather than simply managing your time, can increase productivity and strengthen prioritization. Presented by Leadership Johnson County. Cost: $69, $59 for alumni/members. Register

Office Hours: Peer Learning Conversations for Nonprofits | Virtual Learning Conversation

March 4th | 9:30-10:30 a.m.

A peer discussion for nonprofit practitioners in development, communications, finance, community engagement, or operations, interested in a practical, peer-driven conversation with like minds. Attendees will choose from 4 topic groups. Presented by Central Indiana Community Foundation. Cost: Free. Register

The Care Advantage: Why CBOs are the Future of Social Care Innovation | Webinar

March 5th | 12:00 - 1:30 p.m.

Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) offer a unique "Care Advantage"—the ability to innovate where it matters most: in the heart of communities. Explore why CBOs can solve problems that larger systems miss and learn how to foster a culture of innovation. Presented by CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions and Anthem. Cost: Free. Register

Nonprofit Finance Pulse Check: What the Data Tells Us | Webinar

March 5th | 1-2 p.m.

As nonprofits work harder to diversify revenue, growing financial complexity is straining teams and clouding decision-making. This webinar explores why more revenue isn’t always the answer and highlights the metrics and tools nonprofit leaders need to gain financial clarity and resilience. Presented by Spectrum Nonprofit Services. Cost: Free. Register

Volunteer Opportunity | The PourHouse

The PourHouse needs volunteers on Saturday mornings to help individuals move into apartments. A typical morning includes gathering items, loading them onto a truck, delivering and moving the items into apartments, and talking with or praying over the individuals being served. Sign up 

SPONSORS' RESOURCES

Lily Family School of Philanthropy Smithsonian internship leads to pursuit of a Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies

Covi Why Personal Connection Still Wins in the Age of AI Recruiting

CHARITABLE ADVISORS

FEATURED JOB POSTING

President & CEO - Tipton County Foundation

2025 Central Indiana Salary Report