Investments are like most things in life: You can get by doing the bare minimum, but your assets will never reach their full potential, and may even suffer. Which management and oversight structure will make it possible for your foundation to make the most of its assets? This primer will help you answer that question.... Read More
Small foundations often know the problems and needs in their communities better than most. That is why it can be valuable for foundations to leverage their resources and understanding of local needs to support nonprofit advocacy. But how do you get started? This primer provides you with a wide “comfort zone” for funding advocacy activities,... Read More
Foundation boards and their accountants often use different formats for financial statements. In response, a group of experienced foundation financial officers, CPAs, and attorneys developed a uniform financial reporting system as a model for any private foundation. This uniform system can: Help your foundation prepare your Form 990-PF. The statements were created with the Form... Read More
How do you know if your foundation’s Form 990-PF is true, correct, and complete? Can you simply assume an accountant will get it right? Unfortunately, the answer is no. In fact, regulators estimate that at least 25% of all 990-PFs have errors. Despite this statistic, there is hope. This primer highlights problem areas, offers tips,... Read More
Developing an Investment Policy Statement (IPS) sets the course for managing your foundation’s assets through time. It also reinforces how your investment policy and practices will help to achieve your foundation’s mission and goals. This primer describes how to develop your IPS and guides you through three main tasks, including: Making strategy decisions that lay... Read More
It is becoming increasingly common for foundations to consider closing shop. While the reasons you’re contemplating this option may be straightforward, the process of closing can be complicated. The primer walks you through the strategy choices, tasks, and legal steps of closing shop so you can be confident that you know the main legal issue... Read More