What to Look Out for in 2026: Tech Challenges for UK Charities
As we step into 2026, UK charities face a rapidly evolving technology landscape. Navigating these challenges effectively can make the difference between thriving and falling behind.
1. AI Adoption & Governance: AI tools offer opportunities for efficiency, personalisation and improved service delivery. However, without proper governance, charities risk ethical missteps, biased decision-making and reputational damage. Leaders must understand AI, implement policies and train staff to ensure responsible use. Speak to Smartdesc about our Copilot Readiness Programme – Microsoft Copilot
2. Digital Strategy & Alignment: Technology should support, not distract from, your mission. Charities need a clear digital strategy, alignment with organisational goals and modernisation of legacy systems to enable scalability and efficiency. Speak to Smartdesc about our Digital Maturity Framework and Strategy.
3. Funding Constraints & Capacity: Investment in digital infrastructure is often limited by tight budgets and stretched teams. Strategic planning, partnerships and advocating for core digital funding are essential to build capacity. Speak to Smartdesc regarding our Infrastructure Service – Infrastructure Design & Optimisation
4. Cybersecurity & Emerging Risks: As digital adoption increases, so do cyber threats. Phishing, ransomware and emerging risks like deepfakes pose challenges. Implementing robust cybersecurity measures and incident response plans is critical. Smartdesc offer a range of cyber services to ensure your charity is safe and protected. – Cyber Security
5. Digital Skills & Literacy: Staff and board digital literacy gaps can hinder effective technology use. Continuous training in AI, data and digital tools is crucial to equip teams for 2026’s demands. Smartdesc can tailor a training programme for your teams to ensure they are skilled on the latest technology – Digital Skills & IT Training
6. Data Management & Usage: Fragmented systems and poor data governance limit insights and operational efficiency. Unified data systems and strong governance frameworks help turn data into actionable insights. Speak to Smartdesc about our Governance and Data Protection Service – Data Protection
7. Sustaining Digital Transformation: Change management is key. Charities must manage adoption carefully, prevent staff burnout and align transformation projects with mission objectives. Smartdesc can ensure your digital strategy is managed, measured and reported on – Managed IT Infrastructure
8. Fundraising & Supporter Experience: Donors expect seamless digital experiences. Investing in modern platforms, personalised engagement and data-driven fundraising strategies enhances both revenue and supporter satisfaction. We can ensure your supporters receive the best experience with our range of device management and JML services – IT Leadership as a Service
Conclusion: 2026 will test charities’ ability to integrate technology safely and effectively. By focusing on AI, digital strategy, cybersecurity, skills and data governance, charities can seize opportunities, mitigate risks and maximise impact.
Smartdesc is on hand to support charities with their cyber, data, infrastructure, supporter experience and digital transformation. Get in touch with the team to arrange a discussion.
What ROI Means for Charities
ROI in the charity sector is not just about cost savings. It’s about enabling teams to deliver services more effectively, engage supporters more meaningfully and operate more securely. Here are the key areas where digital transformation delivers measurable value:
Operational Efficiency
- Automating routine tasks reduces administrative burden and frees up staff time
- Cloud-based systems enable flexible, secure working across teams and locations
- Integrated platforms improve data accuracy and reduce duplication
Collaboration and Communication
- Tools like Microsoft 365 and Teams support real-time collaboration between staff, volunteers and trustees
- Secure document sharing and version control improve transparency and governance
Cost Optimisation
- Strategic licensing and supplier management reduce IT spend and improve value for money
- Proactive support models reduce downtime and avoid unexpected costs
Mission Enablement
- Digital tools help charities scale their services, reach more beneficiaries and improve outcomes
- Better data insights support stronger reporting and funding applications
How Smartdesc Supports Transformation
Digital transformation doesn’t have to be disruptive. With the right support, it can be empowering. We partner with charities to deliver tailored digital strategies that align with their goals. Our work includes:
- Process automation for grant management and reporting
- CRM implementations to improve supporter engagement
- Cybersecurity frameworks designed for the third sector
- Free consultations to assess your digital maturity
- Virtual IT Directors (vCIOs) to guide your strategy
- Training and change management to support adoption
Ready to explore your digital ROI?
Let’s talk. Book a consultation with Smartdesc and discover how technology can help your charity work smarter.