If we are to achieve real outcomes and positive social change in our communities, we must end the culture of scarcity that has plagued the sector for decades. Leaders need to challenge the myth that social sector organizations are not sustainable, and that their business models are fundamentally broken.

These beliefs are not reality. Social sector organizations can be profitable and they can be sustainable all while delivering real impact.

But leaders need to think differently.

The social sector is in the midst of a fundamental transformation. If nonprofits are going to survive and to continue to deliver vital services, they must adapt as well.

In today’s uncertain economic and funding environment, social sector leaders leaders need to understand what outcomes they are trying to acheive, what it really costs to acheive those outcomes, and how to build the right business model for sustaining the organization especially in turbulent times.

The difference between organizations that are barely able to keep the lights on and the doors open, and organizations that are financially sustainable and achieving real impact is the Board.  Is your board focus on the right numbers? Are they thinking strategically? Do they understand what it really takes to acheive impact?

Building a culture of sustainability with the Board requires making clear strategic decisions, holding people accountable, and ensuring that all of the Board is engaged in supporting what it takes to be financially sustainable.