Your data can help shape a more equitable future

Since 2020, ONN has been conducting sector-wide surveys, using specific data points that have been meaningful for sector advocacy. In 2026, realities have shifted for nonprofits and the communities they serve. This year’s survey includes new questions to better understand how nonprofits are meeting the current moment.

Data from this survey helps advance collective sector advocacy, and it informs ONN’s policy asks, and the resources we create to support the sector. This work is only possible with your continued participation.

We urge all nonprofits in Ontario with a mission to serve the public benefit, including charities, grassroots groups, volunteer-run organizations, nonprofit social enterprises, and nonprofit co-operatives to fill out the survey. 

Nonprofits can use the amplification package to share the survey in newsletters, emails, and social media. Resources are available in English and French.

The story our data tells can be used to demand and shape a different future; one that works for all of us.

About the survey

• The survey is available in English and French.
• Completion will take approximately 15-20 minutes. 
• Survey closes on July 6 by 5:00pm EST.
• Bonus! Enter to win one of two gift cards, valued at $250 each.
• Preview the questions:
  • PDF version in English and French.
  • Word doc in English and French.

Who can fill out the survey?

A senior representative from your nonprofit who can best estimate and provide organizational operational, financial, and HR information. If you have any questions or require accommodations to complete the survey, please email admin@theonn.ca.

Survey partners

We are grateful to the following partners for supporting our survey work:

Highlights from the 2025 sector-wide survey:

• Nonprofit organizations were largely affected by the economic downturn, which disrupted nearly every aspect of operations from revenue (69 per cent) and expenses (62 per cent) to staff (57 per cent) and programming (54 per cent).
• Demand for nonprofit programs and services continuously climbs while capacity to meet demand stays the same.
• Nonprofits’ financial state mirrors the broader economy.
• The nonprofit HR crisis continues to be of concern, even as it begins to trend downwards.
• Nonprofit programs and services are shrinking.
• A certain proportion of the sector remains at high risk of not existing in the next three years.
• The polarization seen in last year’s survey around how nonprofits feel in the current moment continues: 30 per cent are hopeful, 25 per cent are under-resourced, and 24 per cent are feeling stressed, tired, and/or fatigued.

Policy recommendations for government:

• Create a home in government for nonprofits and charities to protect Ontario.
• Ensure nonprofits are part and parcel of plans to Protect Ontario.
• Future-proof Ontarians’ social infrastructure.