Trump’s Executive Orders & Nonprofits: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Nonprofits are the backbone of social support, stepping in when government programs shrink or when policies disproportionately impact historically marginalized communities. I know from working that over 25 nonprofits, that from providing food and shelter to preserving access to arts and nature, nonprofit organizations ensure that vulnerable populations receive essential services.
The Trump-Vance administration has already attempted to freeze billions in federal grant funding—a move that was temporarily blocked by a federal judge (Democracy 2025, 2024). While the legal battle unfolds over the next week, nonprofits must prepare for shifting federal priorities, potential funding disruptions, and increased demand for services.
Here’s what you need to know—and how you can stay resilient.
How Trump’s Executive Orders Could Impact Nonprofits
The Attempted Federal Grant Freeze
One of the first executive orders issued under the Trump-Vance administration included a sweeping halt on federal grant disbursements, pending an internal policy review (Democracy 2025). While a federal judge has temporarily blocked this order, it signals a broader shift in federal funding priorities—one that could leave many nonprofits vulnerable.
Historically, funding freezes and federal budget cuts have disproportionately affected social service providers, environmental organizations, and arts institutions. If this order is upheld or similar cuts follow, nonprofits relying on federal grants could face delays, reductions, or even the complete loss of critical funding streams.
How Your Nonprofit Can Stay Resilient
The best way to navigate policy uncertainty is to focus on what you can control.
Stay Informed with These Resources
National Council of Nonprofits - Chart of Executive Orders Affecting Charitable Nonprofits
Updated frequently - This chart outlines some of the EOs that may affect nonprofits directly or indirectly.
Real-time analysis of Trump-Vance administration actions, to support legal challenges and provide resources for the pro-democracy community.
How Social Justice Nonprofits Can Navigate Challenges Under the Trump Administration
Learn how to strengthen community support, diversify funding, stay compliant with 501(c)(3) rules, and build resilience to continue making an impact. This guide offers practical, actionable strategies tailored for small and midsize organizations.
Strengthen Your Fundraising & Advocacy Strategy
📌 Diversify revenue streams
If your nonprofit relies on federal funding, explore individual giving, corporate sponsorships, or fee-for-service models (National Council of Nonprofits, 2023).
📌 Engage in policy advocacy
Join nonprofit coalitions that push back on harmful policies (Independent Sector, 2024).
📌 Prepare for funding shifts
Assess your 2025 budget and create contingency plans for potential grant delays or reductions.
I outline all of this and more in my blog: How Social Justice Nonprofits Can Navigate Challenges Under the Trump Administration.
Consider a Compassion Fatigue Training for Your Team
Join Be Restored, Inc. for a 2-hour virtual workshop to learn:
✔ The differences between burnout, compassion fatigue, & vicarious trauma
✔ Early warning signs & how to prevent them
✔ Actionable steps to foster resilience
Plan Time Off & Prioritize Self-Care
If you can’t take a vacation, here are 8 ways to recharge without breaking the bank:
You Are Not Alone: Processing Your Emotional Response
If you’re feeling frustrated, anxious, or exhausted, you are not alone.
When federal and state governments pass policies that threaten vulnerable communities, nonprofits step up—but that comes with a heavy emotional toll.
You are the ones ensuring:
✔ Survivors of domestic violence have a safe place to sleep
✔ Veterans receive mental health and social support
✔ People facing food insecurity have warm meals
✔ Environmental conservation efforts continue despite funding threats
✔ Arts, history, and culture remain accessible to all
The emotional burden of this work is immense. Policy changes aren’t just about budgets—they affect real people, real communities, and the people who serve them.
Recognizing & Managing Burnout
🚨 If you’re feeling burnt out, emotionally numb, or chronically exhausted, this nervous system self-regulation chart can help identify the best processing tools.
Feeling overwhelmed? This self-regulation chart offers simple techniques to help nonprofit professionals manage stress and avoid burnout.
Final Thoughts
The next few years will bring uncertainty, but nonprofits are resilient. By staying informed, diversifying funding, advocating for policy change, and prioritizing staff well-being, your organization can continue making an impact.
Citations & References
Democracy 2025. (2024). Federal grant freeze: What nonprofits need to know. Retrieved from https://www.democracy2025.org/response-center/XKvA76
Independent Sector. (2021). The role of nonprofits in crisis response. Retrieved from https://independentsector.org
Katz, M. B. (1989). The Undeserving Poor: America's Enduring Confrontation with Poverty.
National Council of Nonprofits. (2017). Impact of Trump’s budget on nonprofits. Retrieved from https://www.councilofnonprofits.org
National Council of Nonprofits. (2023). Strategies for nonprofit financial resilience. Retrieved from https://www.councilofnonprofits.org