NFF’s advocacy and research work promotes more equitable funding practices by using our voice and access to financial and social capital to champion the needs of the nonprofit sector and support a strong CDFI industry.

Here's How:

Conducting Actionable Research

Through research and reports like NFF’s State of the Nonprofit Sector Survey, we amplify nonprofit voices, detail the sector’s needs, and suggest new pathways to drive systemic change.

Advocating to Government

We partner with other community leaders to advocate to government for policies that support a healthy and impactful nonprofit sector and allow organizations to pay staff living wages.

Championing the Work of CDFIs

As a proud CDFI, we advocate for a well-supported sector, so CDFIs can continue to play our vital role in the infrastructure supporting nonprofits, small businesses, and low-income communities with access to capital.

Data for Action

State of the Nonprofit Sector Survey

Use data from the survey in your financial storytelling when advocating to policymakers and other stakeholders about financial challenges and funding needs.

Highlights

Using Data to Advocate for Los Angeles Nonprofits

Research and advocacy for LA-based nonprofits to receive timely government payments, and full cost funding that supports quality jobs for staff.

With Los Angeles Opportunity Youth Collaborative, Committee for Greater LA, HR&A Advisors

Aisha Benson’s Advocacy Leadership

NFF President and CEO Aisha Benson serves in key leadership roles in the nonprofit sector, promoting community wealth and well-being.

NFF CEO Urges NYC to Address Nonprofit Cash Flow Crisis

At the encouragement of an NYC Council Member, NFF’s CEO published a piece urging the City to address the cash flow crisis nonprofits were experiencing due to late City payments.

A Dynamic Partnership with Black Equity Collective

Trusted collaboration providing consulting and coaching to BEC members, and a recent survey about how Black-led nonprofits are contributing to California’s economy.

With Black Equity Collective

Building Equitable Assets for Communities and Nonprofits (BEACoN)

Capital and technical assistance for nonprofits and mission-aligned developers creating and preserving community assets to build local wealth and power.

Strategic Innovation Fund

Substantial unrestricted grants from MacKenzie Scott and the Ford Foundation seeded our Strategic Innovation Fund to support strategically aligned projects.

With MacKenzie Scott, the Ford Foundation, the Charles and Ellen Schwab Foundation

Working with NFF has been one of those 'match made in heaven' kind of relationships. Not only do they bring deep technical expertise to our network of Black-led organizations but they bring cultural and community care, values alignment and a national perspective that enhances our work locally.

Kaci Patterson

Founder and Chief Architect, Social Good Solutions