Teaching Paper: Establishing Essential Financial Policies in Non-Profit Organizations

This Teaching Paper presents a structured framework for establishing core financial policies that safeguard non-profit assets, strengthen accountability, and ensure transparency. It outlines essential areas—internal controls, financial reporting, budgeting, and cash management—while offering practical tools for policy development, implementation, and monitoring. Real-world examples demonstrate how even resource-constrained organizations can reduce risks, improve efficiency, and reinforce donor trust through structured governance. Designed for managers, financial officers, and board members, the paper bridges academic perspectives with actionable practices, supporting organizational resilience and mission-driven sustainability.