Originally published in The Chronicle of Philanthropy , August 13, 2024
In Nonprofit Quarterly, Ted Siefer outlines strategies for nonprofits amidst today’s environment and cites NFF’s State of the Nonprofit Sector Survey data, which found that 36% of nonprofits were operating with deficits, more than double the share in 2021. Over half (52%) had less than three months of cash on hand, up from 39% in 2021.
“There are a gazillion scenarios, and that can feel overwhelming, but really you're thinking about: What are the things that I can shift or that I can influence in my organization? Are there certain kinds of programs that aren't as essential right now? Instead, you are able to focus on other things that you might be doing really well.”
NFF’s Jen Talansky, Vice President of Marketing & Communications, lends her expertise: “Make sure you’re really having conversations with your board and your funders. We have a culture of [presenting only] good news in the sector, and this is not the moment to do that.”
Originally published in Nonprofit Quarterly, October 16, 2025