The Impact of COVID-19 on Nonprofit Organizations: A Systematic Review and Future Crisis Research Agenda

Abstract

This study systematically analyzes the organizational-level impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on nonprofit organizations. Based on 52 primary studies encompassing over 100 nonprofit organizations across 30 countries, our thematic analysis found that nonprofits have experienced adverse effects, including reduced funding, increased operating costs, and volunteer shortages. However, only 27 of the 52 studies reported a negative impact of COVID-19 on nonprofit organizations. The COVID-19 pandemic also had positive effects on nonprofit organizations, including the development of innovative service delivery models, accelerated digital fundraising, adaptation of communication strategies to keep stakeholders engaged, and increased cross-sector collaboration. These mixed effects underscore the gaps and opportunities in organizational resilience and adaptability, providing critical insights into future response strategies. To strengthen nonprofit organizations’ ability to absorb, respond to, and recover from future crises, we suggest a research framework that integrates external pressures, resource constraints, and adaptive capacities that affect key outcomes.