Nonprofit Organizations Articles

Borrowing can help nonprofits fund major projects or manage cash flow gaps, but it comes with higher interest rates, strict lender requirements, and added risk. Understanding loan types—such as lines of credit, bridge loans, and long-term financing—and preparing detailed financial documentation are essential steps before applying. Careful planning ensures your organization avoids costly mistakes and secures funding that aligns with its mission.

Creating an effective nonprofit budget requires more than adjusting last year’s numbers. A collaborative approach, accurate forecasting, and scenario planning can help organizations stay agile and prepared for uncertainty. Building reserves and aligning budgets with strategic goals ensures long-term sustainability and mission success.

A well-planned nonprofit board retreat starts with a meaningful topic. This article explores how choosing a central theme such as risk management, financial reporting, or donor engagement can lead to focused discussions and actionable outcomes that strengthen your organization’s strategy.

Clear, consistent communication about financial realities helps nonprofit leaders maintain staff trust and morale during uncertain times. By proactively addressing concerns, especially around layoffs, and fostering a culture of transparency, executive directors can prevent damaging rumors and keep their teams focused on the mission.

In an increasingly competitive funding landscape, nonprofits are turning to AI tools to help craft grant proposals, but success still hinges on understanding the fundamentals of proposal writing. While AI can streamline the process, funders value authenticity, customization, and adherence to guidelines, making human oversight and strategic storytelling essential.

Nonprofits facing financial pressure may find relief by revisiting their board-designated assets—unrestricted funds set aside for specific purposes. With proper policies and documentation, boards can reallocate these funds to address urgent needs, improve cash flow, or support strategic initiatives.

Nonprofits facing financial shortfalls may be able to use income from their endowments to stabilize operations, provided the funds are unrestricted and spending aligns with legal guidelines like UPMIFA. A prudent spending policy, typically 4% - 7% of a rolling average, should account for inflation and aim to preserve the endowment’s principal for long-term sustainability.

Starting in 2026, nonprofits will face an expanded excise tax on compensation exceeding $1 million, which will apply to any employee, not just the top five earners. Donors will also see changes: nonitemizers can deduct up to $1,000 in charitable contributions, while itemizers must exceed a 0.5% AGI threshold to claim deductions, and corporations will face a 1% income floor for charitable deductions.

Nonprofits can host impactful meetings and events without overspending by making thoughtful choices around food, beverages, vendor contracts, and equipment. Strategic planning, early booking, and leveraging volunteers or in-kind donations can significantly reduce costs while still delivering a high-quality experience for attendees.

Nonprofits facing budget cuts must be careful not to compromise essential safeguards like internal controls and cybersecurity, as doing so can increase the risk of fraud. Strengthening oversight, maintaining separation of duties, and investing in basic training and secure technology can help protect the organization without significantly raising costs.