Nonprofit Pulse Report: Federal Impacts and Beyond
San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties | March 2026
The Nonprofit Pulse Report: Federal Impacts and Beyond provides a timely snapshot of how federal policy shifts, funding instability, and rising community needs are affecting nonprofit organizations across San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties.
Produced by the Silicon Valley Council of Nonprofits (SVCN) and Thrive Alliance, the report is based on a regional survey of more than 160 nonprofit leaders conducted in fall 2025. It captures the lived experiences of nonprofit organizations navigating an increasingly uncertain operating environment shaped by federal executive actions, shifting funding streams, and growing demand for services.
Across the region, nonprofit leaders report that the sector is experiencing a convergence of pressures: financial strain, rising administrative complexity, workforce stress, and increasing community need. At the same time, organizations continue to demonstrate resilience by strengthening collaboration, adapting programs, and deepening advocacy efforts to protect the communities they serve.
This report offers an early look at how federal decisions are reverberating through the nonprofit ecosystem and provides a baseline for understanding future impacts as federal policy and funding changes continue to unfold.
Key Findings at a Glance
78% of nonprofits report increased demand for services
More than 40% say their financial health has worsened compared to last year
Nearly 40% have already faced challenges receiving promised federal funding
73% report spending significant staff time responding to federal policy changes
Most nonprofits report no philanthropic funding replacing lost federal dollars
These findings reflect a nonprofit community adapting to growing pressures while continuing to meet rising community needs.
What Nonprofits Say Is Needed
Nonprofit leaders identify several priorities for policymakers, funders, and community partners:
Flexible, multi-year operating funding to stabilize nonprofit organizations
Faster and more consistent government contracting and reimbursement processes
Greater inclusion of nonprofit and community voice in policy decisions
Stronger protections for vulnerable communities
Coordinated philanthropic investment in nonprofit infrastructure and collaboration
Long-term investment in nonprofit and community power-building
Read the Full Report
Download the Nonprofit Pulse Report: Federal Impacts and Beyond to explore the data, insights, and recommendations shaping the nonprofit landscape across San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties.
A LANDSCAPE OF CHANGE AND IMPACT: 2023 REGIONAL NONPROFIT REPORT
FOR SAN MATEO AND SANTA CLARA COUNTIES
This report, based on tax data, surveys, and insights from diverse nonprofit leaders, provides a snapshot of the state of the challenges and opportunities facing our region’s nonprofit sector and highlights investment priorities for our community.
