If your organization has a “calendar year” fiscal year, the falling leaves of autumn will most likely bring budgeting for the coming year to mind.

Securing grants is only half the battle; managing them effectively is where many nonprofits struggle. And there’s a lot on the line—grant compliance issues can jeopardize funding, damage funder relationships, and lead to stressful audits.

Running a successful nonprofit event hinges on having a well-prepared team. From managing check-ins to handling last-minute changes, your staff and volunteers need to know what to do, when to do it, and how to stay flexible under pressure.

We'd like to share with you this important announcement regarding a leadership transition at 501 Commons.

What makes a grant program truly successful? Is it just about the nonprofit spending the funds and launching initiatives, or does real success mean continuing to make an impact long after the grant has ended?

Are you making the most of your fundraising software?

Does your staff team know how to spot the difference between a legitimate email requesting payment for an invoice and a phishing scam that's meant to steal funds or data from you?

Think about all the digital tools that make your nonprofit’s work possible—from your website and constituent relationship management (CRM) software to the platforms you use to communicate with donors and run fundraisers.

Planning a successful event can be challenging. Your nonprofit has many balls to juggle and to-do lists to complete for everything to run smoothly. However, one detail that you should not overlook is accessibility.

As a nonprofit leader, you’ve spent significant time and energy planning for your organization’s long-term growth. To put those plans into action and maximize your impact, it’s crucial to prioritize your nonprofit’s financial future, too.

The federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB) recently published revisions to rules governing federal grantmaking to charitable nonprofits (as well as state, local, and Tribal governments) that will go into effect on October 1, 2024.

Major events, such as galas and auctions, bring in vital revenue for your nonprofit. However, in between these major fundraisers, you should look to diversify your organization’s revenue streams. By doing so, you can earn more revenue, remain afloat in the event a fundraiser falls through, and give supporters more ways to engage.

Every major gift your nonprofit receives represents hours of careful research, thoughtful stewardship, and meaningful solicitation work. As the largest contributions your nonprofit receives, these gifts have the power to truly drive your mission forward.

501 Commons encourages nonprofits to engage in GiveBIG, GivingTuesday, and the year-round Washington Gives program to reconnect with donors amid declining year-end giving trends. We're seeing the largest drop in donors, including those who donate less than $500 (which comprises 80% of donors).

Written by Vonnita Jones & Kai Dailey