Have you started working on your 2027 budget? Before you take your plans to the board, read this:
Over the past year, I've spent a lot of time talking about nonprofit newsletters, donor communication, and fundraising.
As we head into the busiest fundraising season of the year, those topics are as still as important as ever.
But I've also noticed something interesting in my day job as an accountant/auditor for nonprofits and my volunteer role as a finance committee member of a $10m+ nonprofit.
The problem is…
Many nonprofits spend months planning how they'll raise money in the final months of the year, yet spend very little time planning what happens after the money arrives.
They can have a solid budget and an incredible year-end fundraising season and still end up with cash being tight during certain months. They struggle to answer questions like:
Will the money come in when we need it?
What if fundraising falls short of projections?
Will we have enough cash to cover expenses during the slower months?
What happens if a major grant is delayed?
Can we afford to hire?
Can we confidently tell our board that we can afford our plans for 2027
And these questions are difficult to answer without a budget and cash flow forecast that reflect reality.
A budget tells you what you expect to earn and spend.
while
A cash flow forecast tells you whether you'll have the money available when you need it.
Both matter and not making the distinction is one of the most common planning mistakes I see non-profits make. They focus entirely on annual revenue targets without understanding when that revenue will arrive.
That's often why cash feels tight even during successful years.
So in this budgeting season where you are getting ready to present your package to your board, I'm setting aside time for a limited number of 2027 Budget & Cash Flow Planning Calls.
This is a no-cost, no obligation, 20-minute conversation where we'll discuss how to turn your plans and strategic goals into a clear board-ready 2027 budget that connects with your cashflow.
If you'd like to schedule a call, you can do so here:
Raising money is still top of mind as the fundraising season kicks into high gear and I believe the strongest fundraising strategies are the ones supported by a realistic financial plan. If year-end fundraising is your primary focus right now, my newsletter fundraising resources are still available below
Cheers to your impact
Carol
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