Who is this for?
This content is designed for participants in Anti Entropy's SparkWell fiscal sponsorship program. While some context will be specific to SparkWell and may need more context, we've made these resources public because they may, nevertheless, be useful to others who may be founding or building an organization.
- Introduction & onboarding
- Mission, theory of change & impact evaluation
- Fundraising strategy & donor management
- Financial management & budgeting (current stage)
- Legal compliance & risk management
- Infosec & GDPR
- Brand development & marketing
- "Bus-proofing" & sustainability strategy
- HR systems & hiring strategy
- Board development & governance
- Revisited: Mission, theory of change & impact evaluation
- Graduation
Financial management & budgeting
Why is this important?
When setting up a nonprofit, careful financial management and budgeting are crucial to ensure resources are used efficiently, obligations are met, and the organization remains financially sustainable. A clear budget helps plan for expenses, prioritize activities, and avoid overspending, while strong financial management ensures compliance with legal and donor requirements, maintains transparency, and builds trust with funders, boards, and stakeholders. Together, they provide the financial stability needed to achieve the nonprofit’s mission and adapt to changing circumstances.
Suggested reading
Nonprofit Operations Playbook:
Milestones
Aim to complete these before your next monthly check-in:
✔️ 2 year budget created
(Optional) Further outcomes
Consider completing these throughout the program:
✔️ Financial controls drafted
✔️ Bookkeeping discussed
Next up: Legal compliance & risk management
When setting up a nonprofit, addressing legal compliance and risk management is essential to protect the organization, its staff, and its beneficiaries.
See the Legal compliance & risk management worksheet for more information.