DIGITAL EQUITY AND NONPROFIT MARKETING STRATEGY: BRIDGING THE TECHNOLOGY GAP THROUGH AI-POWERED SOLUTIONS FOR UNDERSERVED COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

Abstract

This study investigates the intersection of digital equity and nonprofit marketing strategy with a focus on how AI-powered solutions can bridge the technology gap for underserved community organizations. Digital equity is conceptualized not merely as access to devices or internet connectivity but as a multidimensional framework encompassing affordability, digital literacy, cultural sensitivity, autonomy of use, and the capacity to translate access into meaningful outcomes such as education, employment, and civic participation. Nonprofits, driven by social missions rather than profit, are uniquely positioned to act as mediators between global technological infrastructures and marginalized communities by leveraging trust-based relationships, mission alignment, and inclusive communication practices. Their marketing strategies are framed not only as tools for visibility and fundraising but as vehicles for equity-building through segmentation, targeted outreach, multilingual messaging, and community-driven storytelling. The incorporation of artificial intelligence into these strategies has the potential to extend capacity and efficiency by providing automated translation, predictive analytics, chatbots, and content-generation systems, enabling nonprofits with limited resources to scale their operations and enhance engagement. However, the study also identifies persistent challenges related to resource constraints, data governance, ethical accountability, and community trust, underscoring the need for participatory design and transparent communication. By synthesizing evidence from 142 peer-reviewed articles, this review constructs an integrated conceptual framework that unites digital equity principles, nonprofit marketing strategies, and AI applications. The findings suggest that when implemented responsibly, AI serves as an enabler that amplifies human-centered nonprofit practices rather than replacing them, ensuring that equity and trust remain central. Overall, the study demonstrates that bridging the technology gap for underserved community organizations requires not only technological innovation but also strong institutional support, ethical governance, and culturally responsive nonprofit strategies that empower marginalized populations in the digital age.