With the world sliding into an economic recession, we are entering one of the most precarious times in our history. It's during times like these that people tend to get pessimistic and pull back, withdraw, and protect what they have. It is true that for the next 18-24 months housing prices, the stock market, and optimism about the future will be in short supply. The positive psychology of giving and changing the world that is the benchmark of philanthropy will be challenged as people worry about paying bills and losing their retirement funds.

However, there will be some sectors in our society that will benefit and profit from the Barack Obama victory. So, this week let's look at some of the industries that I believe will be growing during these times. It is these industries that non-profits should look at when seeking philanthropic dollars, volunteers, and product donations during the next few years.

1. Green Industries. Companies that are involved in alternative and sustainable technology should grow tremendously under the Obama administration. The government will probably be using tax incentives and other strategies to encourage our path toward energy independence. All companies that are involved in wind, bio-fuels, and solar energy should benefit significantly during the next decade.
2. Unions. With the recent increase in democratic legislatures in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, unions should be able to achieve their goals of making it easier for workers to unionize. As unions grow they will want to connect more with the community and should have additional financial and other resources to donate to non-profits.
3. Alternative energy and nuclear power. Even though Obama has not been a strong supporter of nuclear power, I think this sector will grow as part of the government's energy sustainability policy.
4. Stem cell research. The manufacturers and producers of stem cell research might be one of the big winners of this election. The Bush administration has cost America eight years of critical research time. Now we will see tremendous expansion and discoveries in this area.
5. Pharmaceuticals. These companies will come under additional scrutiny by the government. The Obama administration will probably get more involved in negotiating prices with these companies. However, I still see these companies providing significant support to non-profits as the interest in health care reform increases.
6. Hybrid and alternative technology automobiles. This is clearly a growing industry in the United States. Even though the price of oil/gas has recently dipped, people are purchasing hybrids like never before and manufacturers are now also producing more electric cars and researching hydrogen as a fuel source.
7. Telecommunications. During the next few years we should see advances in cell phone technology being imported into the United States from Europe. Telecom companies will see growth.
8. Military and defense contractors. Regardless of whether McCain or Obama was elected the military corporations will continue to grow.
9. Oil companies. Even though major oil companies are likely to face higher taxes under Obama, their windfall profits have been enormous during the past few years. These corporations will continue to grow, but at a slower rate.
10. Discount retail chains. With people struggling because of the economy more shoppers will be heading to retail and wholesale outlets for discounted goods.