The Key Shifts Defining What’s Next for the Impact Sector

Explore the 2026 State of Social Impact Report for a clear view of what’s changing and how leaders are responding.

Last year, the Anthem Awards launched the inaugural State of Social Impact Survey to understand how organizations were navigating a moment of upheaval. This year, they return with the 2026 State of Social Impact Report to highlight how organizations are pivoting and what’s next.

2025 wasn’t a blip. Funding collapses, policy shifts, and the erosion of rights are still challenging the work today. But across the sector, a new pattern is emerging:

• Leaders are showing resolve, not optimism
• Organizations are naming regressions, not softening them
• The sector is uniting to build a stronger front
• Storytelling is the sector’s defining priority

The industry is also seeing renewed investment in grassroots action, collaboration, and the stories that shape perception.

This report is fueled by survey responses from across the Anthem community — practitioners, nonprofits, brands, and agencies actively navigating the space. It also features on-the-ground insights from leaders including Michael Bellavia (CEO of HelpGood), Kyle Lierman (CEO of Civic Nation), and KoAnn Vikoren Skrzyniarz (Founder & CEO, Sustainable Brands).

This year’s report goes beyond documenting the moment. It’s built to help you navigate it. Access the full 2026 State of Social Impact Report now.

Join the Leaders Setting the Standard for Impact by Friday, May 22

If you or your team are driving purposeful initiatives, enter your work into the The Anthem Awards before the Early Entry Deadline on Friday, May 22.

Founded by The Webby Awards in 2021, The Anthem Awards celebrate mission-driven work from people and organizations worldwide. The global platform honors initiatives creating measurable impact across Belonging & Inclusion; Education, Art & Culture; Health; Human & Civil Rights; Humanitarian Action & Services; Sustainability, Environment & Climate; and Technology.