Addressing the funding of nonprofits in today’s environment requires creativity. Government funding cuts play a major role in a non-profits currently surviving on a safety net established with the Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Senior Homes). Nonprofits also often receive state funds; with the recent economic downturn the groups receiving state support are receiving less funding and the money sent is often in the rears. As state and federal budget cuts loom, resources for nonprofits must rely on the private sector for funding and support. From 1999 to 2009 there was a 31% increase in nonprofit organizations according to the latest data (Charitable Statistics). With this increase in nonprofit organizations, there is a more competitive market for the allotted monies from both public and private resources which cause straining in the market. Organizations must think outside the box to pursue fundraising and awareness to their cause and campaign to differentiate themselves from those with similar missions in such a competitive market. Streamlining data and administrative processes are underway with many nonprofits. Not possessing the funding to develop a digital presence can also cause funding to move slowly since online marketing is a way to raise awareness and attention to potential funding sources.
Questions:
Identifying the appropriate questions to direct and guide the researcher is potentially the most important element in the research process. Unfortunately; like many problem sets, the questions regarding the funding of nonprofits are not clear and concise and all aspect should be carefully considered. Nonprofit organizations span from social and recreational clubs to major public charities and human services. Has the Federal government and State financial reductions affected all of the nonprofits equally? If not, how have the cutbacks differed among the different elements and types of nonprofit
References: Cooper, D. & Schindler, P. (2011). Business Research Methods (11th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill/Irwin. Angela Stringfellow Consultant, SeniorHomes.com National Center for Charitable Statistics