4 Key Attributes of High Performing Nonprofits

1

High-performing nonprofits are compliant with all local, state, and federal mandates.

This means being registered for tax-exempt status, and in good standing with both the IRS and all state and local requirements. This includes filing 990s annually along with state requirements (like the Char500 if you’re in New York).

High performing nonprofits use systems like Resilia in order to remain compliant consistently, year after year.

2

High-performing nonprofits have diverse funding revenue sources beyond contributions.

High-performing nonprofits consistently execute against their budget and track costs over time. They also don’t just get revenue from grants and foundations, but with a blend of earned and contributed revenue.

• Earned Revenue: program revenue, fees for services, government contracts

• Contributed Revenue: donations, grants, fundraisers

3

High-performing nonprofits have engaged leadership and an effective board of directors.

Nonprofit leaders often have a difficult time ensuring board members have the resources they need to succeed.

High-performing nonprofit boards have a solid leadership structure and manage board meetings in such a way that achieve high attendance and high engagement.

4

High-performing nonprofits know their key performance indicators and measure their performance over time.

Every high-performing nonprofit needs to ensure the causes and people they serve are truly benefitting from their mission. Tracking and measuring success over time is essential.

Every organization needs to have a solid grasp of its Key Performance Indicators supported with the systems needed to make the measurement effort consistent.