In this episode, Aishat explores the concept of a negative budget and how it can be used strategically by charities to drive growth and meet community needs. While many charities strive for balanced or surplus budgets, sometimes running a planned deficit can help organizations invest in their future. Aishat breaks down when and why a charity might choose to adopt a negative budget, how to present it to a board, and what to do if the board is more risk-averse.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• A negative budget can be a valuable planning tool if approached thoughtfully.
• Board approval is critical for implementing a negative budget.
• Different boards have varying levels of risk tolerance.
• Evidence of potential funding sources can help secure board approval for a negative budget.
• Preparing a balanced budget as a baseline  ...