Nonprofit Reserves: What, Why, When, and How (Much?)

This webinar, recorded on July 30, 2025, was conducted by Propel Nonprofits and led by Allison Wagstrom. It was provided free to nonprofits.

Having a cash reserve fund is a goal for every nonprofit organization as a buffer for unexpected disruptions, emergencies, or delays in revenue. But there’s much more to consider, especially at a time when nonprofits need more flexibility than ever before. Whether you find yourself with more funds in the bank than expected, or holding your breath until the next payroll, understanding and planning reserve funds is timely. In this webinar, we dig into why reserves are valuable and for what purpose, ponder the perennial question of how much, and discuss some practical tools for managing and communications.

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On October 8, 2025, Join Us for a National Town Hall on the Financial State of the Nonprofit Sector

Nonprofit GPS is a new, action-based community designed to help nonprofits navigate today’s disrupted revenue landscape. Built in consultation with organizations nationwide, it focuses on the real financial challenges nonprofits face — business model risks, capital management, budgeting, governance, and more. Together, we’ll share practical strategies and highlight bright spots of practice that strengthen missions, even in the most disruptive times.

At this event you will hear: an analysis of the current economic landscape for nonprofits and the implications for practice; what array of critical new resources will be offered by Nonprofit GPS over the next three months and beyond; and how to become involved as a practice leader in this community.

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