"But we can't do that, we're just a nonprofit." "We have limited staff, work long hours, beg for donations and struggle to keep our doors open." "Nonprofits can't make money only large corporate organizations."
You've heard these phrases, (or similar), used to describe how the nonprofit sector operates. At the core, these phrases are meant to create “impressions” that can inspire fear, create feelings of scarcity, and ultimately, affect your organization and everyone attached to it. We, at Collective Impact, hear these words all too often; but refuse to allow them to define or limit our community. Why, because that goes against the word of God. How does living in lack, running a broke nonprofit organization gives HIM glory?
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. ~Romans 12:2
If we allow those thoughts to fester it will reinforce the scarcity mindset and deter people who can really make an impact in our communities. Of course, the world wants us to believe doing good and serving others will be less appealing and we have to struggle. But we are Kingdom, we must be about our father's business, and He Will Provide.
And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 2 Corinthians 9:8
Did you know that Ikea, yes the furniture company is a nonprofit organization? In 2020, the global gross profit of IKEA amounted to about 11.7 billion euros, down from 12.4 billion recorded a year earlier. IKEA employs 135,000 people in 44 countries. Because of tax breaks for non-profits, IKEA pays about 33 times less on taxes than their for-profit counterparts, a minuscule 3.5% in taxes on its $27 billion in annual sales. This video will explain it all.
Rather you agree with their nonprofit status or not. It should prove just because you are in the nonprofit sector doesn’t mean you can’t grow financially with sustainable structures and practices.
Nonprofits need and CAN afford to be strategic and intentional.
I can guarantee Ikea's founder had a team of experienced nonprofit professionals, lawyers, and an awesome working board to become the #1 Furniture retailer in the world.
Together we can change the narrative of nonprofits, especially led by and serving communities and color but it's going to take strategy, teamwork, and dedication on all of our parts to create solid foundations that can grow and sustain and leave a legacy.
We have curated resources in Collective Impact App and Impact Academy and assembled a network that can fill in the gaps of your organization. However, you can have access to all the information in the world but it must be applied! If you don't BELIEVE you have what it takes to dominate the nonprofit sector, I would encourage you to read Genesis 2 and our blog What's holding you back to overcome internal barriers that are preventing you from walking in your promise land.
Transformation Church is in a series called Crazier Faith, check it out for inspiration. God is no favorite of persons, he honors FAITH, preparation, and hard work. Contrary to what the world tries to convince you, God has the final say. We need to walk in our authority with Faith and Preparation and show the world what Kingdom organizations look like. Will you join us?