Module 1: Understanding the Nonprofit Landscape

This foundational module introduces learners to the unique characteristics of nonprofit organizations. It covers the legal and operational differences between nonprofit and for-profit entities, highlighting the mission-driven nature of NFPs. Participants explore the diverse types of nonprofit organizations—such as charitable foundations, educational institutions, religious organizations, and advocacy groups—and the implications of each for bookkeeping and accounting. The module also addresses the various stakeholders involved, including donors, volunteers, board members, and regulatory bodies.

Key topics include:

The definition and scope of nonprofit organizations.
How nonprofit goals influence financial management.
Governance structures and stakeholder roles.
Compliance frameworks and regulatory requirements.

Module 2: The Life Cycle of a Nonprofit Organization

This module outlines the stages a nonprofit passes through, from formation to dissolution, and the corresponding financial responsibilities at each phase. Learners gain insight into the registration and incorporation process, tax-exempt status applications, and ongoing reporting obligations with government agencies such as the IRS and Charity Commissions. It also explains dissolution procedures and the importance of documenting financial activities throughout the organization’s life.

Topics covered include:

Steps to legally form a nonprofit.
Maintaining tax-exempt status and compliance.
Financial reporting obligations.
Handling closure and asset distribution.

Module 3: Nonprofit Accounting Principles and Standards

Understanding the accounting frameworks specific to nonprofits is critical. This module explains fund accounting—a system that segregates resources by their restrictions to ensure proper use—and how it contrasts with traditional business accounting. Participants learn about relevant accounting standards such as GAAP for nonprofits, focusing on how donations, grants, and other income sources are recognized and tracked.

Topics include:

Fund accounting principles.
Types of funds and restrictions.
Revenue and expense recognition.
Allocation of costs and overhead.

Module 4: Bookkeeping Process in Nonprofit Organizations

This practical module walks learners through the entire bookkeeping cycle, tailored to nonprofit financial activities. It includes recording journal entries, posting to ledgers, managing pledges and grant income, and tracking restricted funds. The module emphasizes the importance of internal controls and reconciliations to prevent errors and fraud.

Topics include:

Setting up nonprofit chart of accounts.
Recording donations, grants, and other income.
Expense tracking and classification.
Bank reconciliations and internal control procedures.

Module 5: Preparing and Analyzing Nonprofit Financial Statements

Nonprofits produce specific financial reports essential for transparency and accountability. This module explains how to prepare and interpret these key statements:

Statement of Financial Position (Balance Sheet)
Statement of Activities (Income Statement)
Statement of Cash Flows
Statement of Functional Expenses

Learners explore how to analyze these statements for financial health, identify trends, and use financial ratios relevant to nonprofit performance.

Topics include:

Structure and components of nonprofit financial statements.
Financial analysis techniques.
Reporting to boards, donors, and regulators.
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Module 6: Compliance, Accountability, and Best Practices

Ensuring regulatory compliance and maintaining donor trust requires diligent record-keeping and ethical financial practices. This module covers best practices for documentation, audit preparation, and transparent reporting. Participants learn about internal controls, how to prepare for external audits, and how to maintain accountability to stakeholders.

Topics include:

Documentation standards and record retention.
Preparing for audits and reviews.
Implementing internal controls.
Ethical stewardship and transparency.

Module 7: Practical Applications and Case Study

This final module offers hands-on practice through a case study of a fictional nonprofit. Learners set up a chart of accounts, record typical transactions, and prepare financial statements. This immersive exercise helps consolidate knowledge and build confidence in real-world bookkeeping tasks.

Topics include:

Case study introduction and objectives.
Chart of accounts setup.
Transaction recording and journal entries.
Financial statement preparation.
Identifying and correcting common errors.

Bookkeeping for Nonprofit Organizations in Paris

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