Ending (the year) on a high note
2025 has been tough for lots of communities and the organisations that support them but it also given us further evidence of the resilience, creativity, and hope of the community sector. As we wrap up the year, we’ve been reflecting on what has inspired us the most.
Josh - AI
3 years ago I put AI at the top of my priority list and it has been amazing to watch the technology evolve so rapidly. Over that time my view has shifted from 'interesting tech' to 'generation defining technology that will be as impactful as the internet'. The future is here and it is definitely not evenly distributed, the gaps I see between people and organisations who have a deep understanding and practice of the technology and those new to it is very stark. One highlight for me this year has been working with Lani to help more people in the community sector get honest insights into the opportunities and limitations of AI and help people doing good work be on the front foot when it comes to AI.
Alanna - Equity
I am deeply excited about Fundsorter's potential to bring more equity to grant funding, levelling the field for organisations run by volunteers or without fundraisers on staff. A few years ago I started Gift Collective, a fundholding service for unincorporated charitable groups, which by definition are less professionalised and often represent marginalised demographics. A big win moment for me was recently hearing that since providing access to Fundsorter, Gift Collective has seen a significant increase in grant funding coming in. Knowing that these awesome groups will now be able to do more of their important mahi is an incredible feeling.
Rod - Optimism
My reflection is on the power of optimism. While building Fundsorter, what has stood out most is how many people have been willing to go on the journey with us. Every customer who tested an early feature, every organisation that showed us how to make their work easier, and every person who shared our story has helped shape the momentum we’re feeling now. In a sector where time and resources are precious, that generosity and optimism means everything. It’s a reminder that progress isn't built alone, it’s built together, with people who choose to show up with curiosity, encouragement, and trust.
Lani - Knowledge
I’ve been reflecting on the breadth of the community sector. From tiny, volunteer-run organisations to large, strategic funders, the landscape is full of the unexpected and the wonderful - people writing space policy, supporting survivors, funding experimental horticulture, scuba-diving for discarded fishing nets. The community sector reflects the full diversity of the human experience. It’s big, complex and curious, both delightful and devastating. I’m ending the year deeply grateful to work in this space, and to be doing it through Fundsorter. Thank you to everyone who has been alongside us, as customers, funders, cheerleaders and challengers. We hope you get the rest and recovery you need over the festive season, and we hope there’s less resilience required in 2026.
Ngā manaakitanga, the Fundsorter team.
The Fundsorter co-founders - from left, Alanna Irving, Joshua Vial, Lani Evans and Rod Macdonald