Scenario Planning for Nonprofits in Uncertain Times with Carol Hamilton

As nonprofit leaders move into 2026, uncertainty no longer feels episodic—it feels constant. Scenario planning offers nonprofit leaders a practical way to navigate uncertainty by shifting from reactive decision-making to clearer priorities, stronger alignment, and more confident, values-aligned choices—even when the future is unpredictable.

In this episode of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, host Carol Hamilton names the fatigue, overwhelm, and decision paralysis many leaders are carrying after this past year of heightened disruption. She introduces scenario planning as a practical, grounding strategy tool designed specifically for uncertain times. She discusses:

• What scenario planning and is not

• Why it is a tool that is particularly suited to the times we are in

• How scenario planning helps nonprofit leaders regain a sense of agency, clarify what's within their control, and align staff and board around thoughtful, values-aligned responses to multiple possible futures.

Through clear explanations and client examples, the episode shows how scenario planning can help leaders move from reacting and spinning to steering with intention.

Episode Highlights 00:00–02:00 | Naming the Reality of Nonprofit Leadership Right Now 02:00–03:20 | Scenario Planning - a tool for the times we are in 03:20–05:00 | What Scenario Planning Is—and Is Not 05:00–06:30 | Why Traditional Planning Often Falls Short 06:30–08:00 | Shifting From Overwhelm to Agency 08:00–09:45 | What the Scenario Planning Process Looks Like 09:45–10:45 | Finding Common Priorities Across Futures 10:45–12:00 | An Invitation to Lead with Intention

 

Important Links and Resources:

Scenario planning services

Quote from Mariame Kaba From "Read This When Things Fall Apart" Edited by Kelly Hayes

 

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