Cherian Koshy
Cherian Koshy is a transformative leader with over 25 years of experience driving innovation across fundraising, strategy, and technology in the social impact sector. As Vice President at Kindsight, a global technology firm, Cherian helps organizations in education, healthcare, and philanthropy navigate the rapidly evolving generosity ecosystem. He equips mission-driven teams with the insights and tools to thrive in a technology-enabled future.
Cherian is a recognized authority in philanthropy, holding both the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP®) designations. He currently serves as Treasurer on the global board of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. His deep commitment to service includes past leadership as Chair of the Iowa Commission on Volunteer Service and recognition with the Governor’s Volunteer Award.
An accomplished entrepreneur, Cherian founded NonprofitOS (now Engage), an AI-powered platform that redefined nonprofit efficiency and strategic execution. The platform’s success culminated in its acquisition, and its influence continues to shape how technology drives mission-aligned impact.
His commitment to ethical innovation is underscored by certifications in behavioral science from Harvard Business School and in the ethics of artificial intelligence from the London School of Economics. This foundation drives his work at the intersection of values-based leadership and cutting-edge technology, positioning him as a pivotal figure in advancing excellence across the global social impact landscape.
Cherian’s thought leadership has been featured in Forbes, Yahoo Finance, and CEO Weekly, and he is a regular contributor to outlets including the Chronicle of Philanthropy, Civil Society Media, Nonprofit Pro, and Advancing Philanthropy. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice, he is an international speaker known for translating complex ideas into clear, actionable strategies that resonate with executives, boards, and changemakers alike.
In addition to his professional roles, Cherian serves as adjunct faculty at The Fund Raising School, part of the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. He is also the author of an upcoming book from Wiley, exploring the intersection of neuroscience and fundraising to uncover how memory, attention, and motivation shape generosity.
Cherian is a Kentucky Colonel—the highest civilian honor awarded by the Commonwealth of Kentucky—recognizing his service, leadership, and impact. Whether on stage or in the boardroom, he brings clarity, compassion, and curiosity to the work of building a more generous world.
He lives in Iowa with his family.