New Data on DAFS: Significant Growth

In this data-packed episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., welcomes back philanthropic powerhouses Genevieve Shaker, Ph.D., and Dan Heist, Ph.D., to unpack the brand-new Donor Advised Fund Research Collaborative report. And folks, the headline is clear: DAFs are not just “a thing,” they are a major thing. With $90 billion flowing into donor advised funds in 2024 and a record-setting $65 billion flowing back out in grants. Contributions rebounded sharply after a 2023 dip, mirroring stock market recovery, and now represent roughly 15% of all charitable giving in the U.S. That’s not pocket change, that’s a seismic shift in how philanthropy moves. One of the biggest evolutions? The rise of “donation processors.” Think workplace giving platforms and online tools quietly powering charitable accounts behind the scenes. These platforms have helped push the total number of DAF accounts to 3.6 million, doubling in just five years. Some of these accounts are smaller and transactional, but together they’re transforming access to philanthropy. The barrier to entry has dropped so low that opening a DAF can require little to no initial investment. Translation: this isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy anymore. The “millionaire next door” may now be the “DAF holder next door.” The episode also tackles the payout debate, and yes, there’s math, but the good kind. The reported payout rate of 25% (compared to private foundations’ typical 5–6%) reflects grants made relative to assets held at the start of the year. Meanwhile, the “flow rate,” dollars out compared to dollars in, shows even more velocity. While most DAFs are actively granting, about 8–10% remain relatively inactive over time, sparking ongoing policy discussions. But the data tell a powerful story: when contributions rise, grantmaking rises too. DAF donors aren’t just storing wealth, they’re moving it. For fundraisers, the takeaway is crystal clear: get in the game. Ask donors if they have a DAF. Add it to your event forms. Include it in major gift conversations. Use the publicly available data to identify sponsors in your region and benchmark your results. DAFs are increasingly central to philanthropic strategy across income levels, and fundraisers who understand payout rates, flow dynamics, and donor motivations will be better equipped to engage today’s strategic givers. Bottom line? The money is moving, and the fundraisers who are informed, curious, and proactive will be right there to help direct it toward mission.