On the first day, participants learn to balance their organization’s mission with its financial realities. To lay the foundation of this conversation, we explore the idiosyncrasies of non-profit economics—including the rules and contradictions inherent to the financial system in which non-profits operate. We then provide instruction on how to read and interpret non-profit financial statements. We will engage in several hands-on activities in which participants dive into real life case studies as well as their own organization’s numbers and challenge themselves to identify areas of risk when gauging their own financial health.

Building on improved financial understanding, CFF will introduce the key concepts of non-profit capitalization and work with groups to recognize the underlying business models that drive their organization’s finances. Lastly, CFF will introduce specific tools and strategies for planning and managing in challenging times.

Every organization has financial needs that must be incorporated into conversations with its funders, board, staff and stakeholders. In this session, participants will be given a three to five-year trend analysis of their organization prepared by CFF with financials submitted in advance. Building on knowledge gained during the first day, participants will practice articulating their financial story. With support from CFF staff, this story is refined over two sessions. On the second day, each organization will have an opportunity to present their story to program mentors and peers. Organizations will leave equipped with an analytic diagnostic report and the know-how to use the report in day-to-day communications.

For organizations that identify a need for follow-up assistance or further financial consultation, CFF will offer up to one hour of one-on-one customized technical assistance after the clinic.