Recent News & Blog / Nonprofit
One from many: Why your nonprofit might want to federate
Federated nonprofits are single corporate entities with multiple chapters. There’s no one definitive legal structure for federated organizations. But local chapters generally operate independently and pay an amount to their national office in exchange for the name, branding and other benefits. Advantages can include economies of scale; a single, distinct brand; higher visibility; shared resources; and greater chapter-based accountability. Contact SEK's nonprofit advisors to learn more.
Make better branding your nonprofit’s 2025 New Year’s resolution
Here’s a nonprofit New Year’s resolution: Strengthen your brand. The first task is to identify what your nonprofit cares about, what it does, how it’s effective and why it deserves support. Contact SEK's nonprofit advisors for suggestions.
Using an exit agreement to manage your nonprofit’s leadership transition
If one of your nonprofit’s leaders is departing, an exit agreement may help smooth the process. This legal document, usually developed by the board of directors, is intended to compensate a founder or executive for past service or provide incentives to perform future work. There are several types of exit agreements, including “catch-up,” “stay” and one-time honorarium. Contact SEK's nonprofit advisors for guidance.
Nonprofit start-ups: Form 1023 or 1023-EZ?
When new nonprofits apply to the IRS for approval to be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations, which form should they use, Form 1023 or 1023-EZ? The first is much longer and more costly to file. However, not all nonprofits qualify to use the shorter, less expensive-to-file Form 1023-EZ. Contact the nonprofit advisors at SEK for help selecting and filing a form.
Should your nonprofit compete, collaborate or both?
Not-for-profits often collaborate with other organizations with similar missions and values. But due to limited donor and grant maker resources, you also need to think about similar nonprofits as competitors. However, if a competitor has access to resources and connections you don’t (and vice versa) it may make sense to collaborate. Contact the nonprofit advisors at SEK with your financial questions.
What nonprofits might expect from the change of control in Washington
The reelection of Donald Trump as President and control of the U.S. Congress by Republicans are anticipated to usher in changes that could financially impact the not-for-profit sector. Each organization will be affected differently, but in general, you may want to keep an eye on the following issues. Contact the nonprofit advisors at SEK with questions and concerns.
Keep your nonprofit’s special event safe and successful
Most not-for-profits depend on special events to raise money, attract supporters and boost their profiles. But whether you’re hosting a formal dinner, golf tournament, holiday bazaar or other event, know that almost all special events encounter unexpected issues, if not downright emergencies. Contact the nonprofit advisors at SEK for help with creating a crisis management plan for your event.
Nonprofits: How to get foundations to say “yes” to your grant proposals
If your not-for-profit isn’t actively seeking grants from the many thousands of foundations in the United States, why not? In general, you’ll be the most successful at obtaining grants if you target foundations whose interests match your nonprofit’s mission and programs. Foundations usually like well-defined, data-driven projects that they can be confident will be completed. Contact the CPAs and nonprofit advisors at SEK for more suggestions.
Don’t let fraudsters ruin the most wonderful time of the year
The hubbub of the year-end giving season, combined with holiday absences, can make your nonprofit vulnerable to fraud. Read below for tips on preventing fraud in your nonprofit this holiday season or contact the nonprofit advisors at SEK with questions.
Clearing the cobwebs from your nonprofit’s program offerings
Whether your nonprofit’s program budget will be smaller or larger in 2025, this is a good time to review current offerings to assess which are effective and which aren’t. You may even find your organization is ignoring important needs in your community. Contact the nonprofit advisors with questions on the best methods to do so.