
How Much Should a Nonprofit Spend on Administration?
One of the most common questions nonprofit leaders ask is: How much should we spend on administrative costs? This question is important because donors, funders, and watchdog organizations often evaluate nonprofits based on how efficiently they…

What Financial Reports Do Grant Funders Require?
Grant funding is a vital resource for many nonprofits, but it comes with expectations—especially when it comes to financial reporting. Understanding what financial reports grant funders require can help your organization stay compliant and…

Nonprofit Accounting vs. Bookkeeping: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the difference between nonprofit accounting and bookkeeping is essential for organizations that want to maintain accurate financial records and make informed decisions. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they serve…

How to Build Strong Financial Controls in a Nonprofit
Financial controls are policies and procedures that help nonprofit organizations manage funds responsibly and reduce the risk of financial errors or fraud. Strong internal controls protect the organization, its staff, and its reputation.
Even…

Grant Tracking Best Practices for Nonprofits
Grants are a critical source of funding for many nonprofit organizations. However, grant funding often comes with specific restrictions, reporting requirements, and spending deadlines. Without proper tracking systems, nonprofits can struggle…

What Should a Nonprofit Board Look for in Financial Reports?
Board members have an important responsibility to oversee the financial health of the nonprofit organizations they serve. While board members may not manage daily financial operations, they must review financial reports carefully and ask informed…

Nonprofit Budgeting: A Step-by-Step Guide
A well-designed budget is one of the most important financial tools for any nonprofit organization. Budgets help nonprofits plan for program delivery, allocate resources effectively, and ensure financial sustainability.
Creating a nonprofit…

How to Read Nonprofit Financial Statements
Nonprofit leaders are responsible for making decisions that affect their organization’s mission, staff, and community impact. One of the most important tools for making informed decisions is the organization’s financial statements. Understanding…

What is Fund Accounting for Nonprofits? A Simple Guide
Unlike for-profit businesses, nonprofit organizations use fund accounting to track how money is used based on donor restrictions and program purposes.
Fund accounting allows nonprofits to separate resources into different categories or “funds.”…

5 Financial Mistakes Nonprofits Make (And How to Avoid Them)
Financial management plays a critical role in the long-term sustainability of nonprofit organizations. While nonprofits focus heavily on mission and programs, financial systems often develop informally. Over time, this can create problems with…
