39: The Giving Block | The Skinny On Cryptocurrency for Nonprofits

Alex Wilson and Pat Duffy are the founders of The Giving Block, a business focused on helping nonprofits accept cryptocurrency donations.

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Is Your Charity Ready to Accept Crypto Donations?

“Right now there are a hundred million people holding crypto. If it’s easy to donate and there are no taxes, this is a land grab moment for nonprofits to get into cryptocurrency acceptance.” Share on X

What Comes to Mind When You Hear “Cryptocurrency”?

For many of us, the word cryptocurrency conjures abstract images—intangible money or a futuristic trend. That was true for me, too. But after digging deeper, I’ve come to see that crypto is not just real—it’s redefining how people give.

In fact, cryptocurrency is already reshaping the philanthropic landscape. If your nonprofit isn’t prepared to accept it, you may be missing out on a rising donor base.

The Rising Role of Cryptocurrency in Philanthropy

Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies have been around for over a decade, but only recently have nonprofits started to seriously consider their potential. And it’s happening fast.

In 2021, the crypto market surpassed $1 trillion in value, according to the World Economic Forum. That milestone isn’t just about market growth—it reflects the rise of a new generation of digital donors.

If you want to future-proof your fundraising, now is the time to learn how accepting crypto donations can unlock powerful benefits for your organization.

Crypto’s Biggest Appeal: Tax Advantages

Why are crypto donations gaining traction?

Just like appreciated stock, the IRS treats cryptocurrency as property. This means donors don’t have to pay capital gains taxes when they donate crypto—and they can also receive a tax deduction based on the asset’s fair market value.

It’s a win-win. The donation is larger (since it’s untaxed), and the donor gets a higher deduction. Yet many nonprofits still aren’t equipped to accept these gifts, despite their massive potential.

The Challenge: Most Nonprofits Aren’t Ready

Despite the advantages, very few nonprofits have systems in place to process cryptocurrency donations. This gap is where opportunity lies—and where The Giving Block comes in.

Founded in 2018 by Alex Wilson and Pat Duffy, The Giving Block helps nonprofits integrate crypto donation platforms and connect with the growing community of digital donors.

Meet the Founders: Alex Wilson and Pat Duffy

Alex Wilson: Former management consultant for Fortune 500s, specializing in emerging technologies like AI and blockchain.
Pat Duffy: Former federal consultant turned nonprofit leader, with a background in executive strategy and fundraising.

Together, they saw a wave of untapped generosity from crypto holders—and built The Giving Block to help nonprofits catch that wave.

Today, hundreds of organizations have adopted crypto-ready systems, thanks to their work.

Don’t Miss the Next Generation of Donors

Crypto adoption isn’t just about the money—it’s about meeting Millennials and Gen Z where they are. This shift is a reminder that the nonprofit world must evolve, not only to raise funds but to engage the next wave of supporters.

With younger generations embracing digital finance, nonprofits must adopt forward-thinking strategies—or risk falling behind.

Final Thoughts: Ready or Not, the Future is Here

Accepting crypto donations isn’t a trend—it’s the new normal. If your organization isn’t crypto-ready, now is the time to act.

🪙 Want to learn more about integrating crypto into your fundraising strategy?
Visit The Giving Block or explore tools to begin your onboarding process today.

Key Takeaways:

(6:18) – The Giving Block’s story and why it is important to help nonprofits take cryptocurrency.
(9:35) – Bitcoin 101: Exactly how big is crypto and why it is the perfect currency for donations.
(15:24) – Be an option: There are a hundred million people who are willing to donate in crypto if you are prepared to take it.
(18:54) – Can cryptocurrency introduce us to a new generation of donors? Bitcoin Tuesday and other strategies to engage with a younger audience.
(22:31) – Pat’s and Alex’s view on community and the importance of building bonds between nonprofits and the crypto world.
(28:43) – Take action! The first steps you should take to understand crypto as a philanthropist.
(33:05) – How crypto can help with donor retention and the awesome ripple that it is creating through nonprofits.

Quick hits: Why Crypto for Nonprofits?