ONN Blog: Navigating a "Canada First" Investment Strategy

With ongoing trade tensions, many Canadian organizations are looking to support the home team, and charities — especially foundations — have a unique opportunity to do so through their investment portfolios. But is a "Canada First" investment strategy actually allowed? Turns out, there are some interesting legal hoops to consider, mainly around prioritizing returns versus furthering the charity's overall goals.

Navigating these complex investment decisions requires a nuanced understanding of both financial and ethical considerations. You can further explore how to align your investments with your values and legal charity requirements on the ONN Blog, “Canada First investing for charities and foundations in Ontario: Is it even allowed?” by Benjamin Miller.

Young Associates can provide expert guidance when it comes to getting a handle on your finances and cash flow and making the decision to invest. To delve deeper into financial planning for the arts, check out Finance for the Arts in Canada.

New Report from ONN on the Future of the Nonprofit Sector

The Ontario Nonprofit Network (ONN) has recently issued a stark warning about the state of the nonprofit sector. Their publication, "Creating bold, thriving, sustainable nonprofit leadership requires disruption" paints a picture of a sector under siege. The pandemic and its aftermath have exacerbated an already precarious situation, with the nonprofit labour force facing a significant crisis. Increased competition, both within and outside the sector, coupled with decreasing resources and shifting external threats, are driving many to leave. The relentless demand is leading to burnout among those who remain. 

To address these challenges, ONN argues for a sector-driven, collaborative approach that combines decent work and labour force strategies. They emphasize the need to pool resources and avoid reinventing the wheel organization by organization. 

Three key takeaways emerge from the report: 

• a shift in leadership mindset, 

• collective mobilization, 

• and the operationalization of good practices. 

At Young Associates, we believe that education is crucial in developing future nonprofit leaders. Heather Young’s book, Finance for the Arts in Canada, offers a valuable resource for those looking to strengthen their financial knowledge and skills. 

What are your thoughts on the challenges facing the nonprofit sector and the proposed solutions?