Introducing Adweek’s Cause Marketing Report, Mapping the New World of Charitable Giving

For the iconic organizations that have long raised donations by the millions, the shifting landscape can seem ominous, as giving transitions from an annual workplace routine to something far more personal and passionate. 

But for those who are energized by innovation—whether they're at a storied nonprofit or a scrappy, crowd-funded advocacy group—this is an era of countless opportunities. All it takes is the open-minded creativity to find the right idea, along with the will and support to bring it to life.

Today Adweek launches our first Cause Marketing Report, a deep dive into the rapidly evolving nonprofit world. 

Here are a few of the articles you'll find in this special report:

• Staff writer Robert Klara and staff artist Yuliya Kim have created a detailed infographic looking at the millions of lives saved and improved by the Gates Foundation, which has given an astounding $36.7 billion to global charities since being founded in 2000.
• Brands, especially tech leaders, have quickly become the most potent opponents of anti-LGBT state laws. Staff writer Christine Birkner looks at how corporations have shifted from being part of "the establishment" to being advocates for progressive policies.
• Virtual reality can often seem impractical, but VR has quickly proven its value to nonprofits looking for new ways to create emotional connections between potential donors and charitable work being done overseas. Staff writer Marty Swant reports on the trend, alongside Adweek's video production team, Alfred Maskeroni and John Tejada.
• We often only see the downsides of anonymity on apps like Whisper, but staff writer Lauren Johnson reports on how nonprofits are also discovering the benefits of encouraging conversation in a place where young people can be open and honest. 

We'll be adding even more coverage as the week continues. Until then, be sure to also check out:

• Adweek's 2015 Brand Genius nonprofit honoree: Every Mother Counts
• Adweek's 2014 Brand Genius nonprofit honoree: (Red)
• The 2016 'Brand Save' award will be announced alongside other Brand Genius winners in October. Check out the Brand Genius 2016 entry form for details.

Read more about how creativity and tech are fueling today's nonprofits in Adweek's Cause Marketing Report.