The Nonprofit Bookkeeper

In this episode of our business anniversary series, I shine a light on Culture Community, a Saturday school for children aged 8 to 16 that focuses on black history, culture, and traditions. Culture Community provides a safe space for children to discuss their feelings. offers lessons on black leaders and inspirational figures, along with engaging activities and games. I sit down with the Founder,...

In this episode, the host, Aishat speaks about BAnC Services the bookkeeping and accounting practice she founded. As BAnC Services celebrates its third anniversary, she reflects on its journey, talks about plans for the future, for The Nonprofit Bookkeeper and for BAnC Services. Aishat also expresses gratitude to clients, mentors, and supporters who have been instrumental in the practice's growth....

IIn the first episode of our business anniversary series, we shine a light on Allia Impact. Two years after completing their program, BAnC Services is still reaping the benefits I speak to Marina Pritchard, Program Manager at Allia Impact about their work supporting social enterprises and charities. Marina describes Allia‘s work supporting individuals and groups looking to start or grow their own...

Joining me on this episode is Ross Palmer, of Sayer Vincent LLP. Ross. a tax advisor to charities and not-for-profits shares his professional journey from audit to tax advisory. We delve into value added tax (VAT) and Ross provides clear explanations of various VAT considerations including reverse charge VAT and partial VAT recovery. He also talks about the gift-aid relief scheme, business rates a...

In this episode, I cover the basics of Value Added Tax (VAT) as it applies to the charity sector, outlining key elements and setting the stage for the next episode, where I'll be joined by a charity VAT specialist. KEY TAKEAWAYS Charities may need to register for VAT if their taxable income exceeds the VAT registration threshold, and they can choose to register voluntarily. Seek advice when it com...

In this conversation, Obi Ofokansi shares his professional background and experiences in the nonprofit sector, including international development, human rights, and emergency disaster relief. Our discussion touches on several topical issues in the sector from localisation agenda/decolonisation of finance in nonprofits to automation to AI and to finding the right balance between programme delivery...

In this episode, I speak to Leo Skyner, CFO of Oxfam International and we discusses his transition to the charity sector and his motivation for remaining in the sector. Leo also talks about his roles as a trustee and co-founder of a community interest company (C.I.C.) and shares insights on the evolving role of finance in the charity sector and the challenges of stakeholder management. He highligh...

In this concise finance focused episode, Aishat Idris picks up things from where she left them in episode 19 and talks about budgeting tips and common budgeting mistakes to avoid. She emphasizes the use of technology, prioritizing spending, involving the whole team, and reviewing the budget periodically. Aishat rounds the discussion up with a reminder of the key discussion points. Tune in, to comp...

In this episode, I sit down with Dan Goodwin an International Payments solutions specialist. We discuss the basics of international money transfer, the impact of exchange rates, and the negotiation of cost-effective transfers with MSPs. The conversation covers a range of topics related to international money transfers for non-profits, including negotiating with payment partners, navigating banking...

Budgeting is an important tool for mastering and managing a nonprofit’s finances effectively. It is a financial roadmap that outlines income sources and expenses. So, in this episode, I talk about the basics of budgeting and the pre-requisites for a useful, quality and realistic budget. If you’ve ever wondered how much funds are available in your non-profit to deliver its mission, what its expense...

Louise Roe, a seasoned Fundraising professional, shares insights on grant funding and establishing credibility with potential donors. She emphasizes the importance of research when applying for grants and matching values with funders. Lou shares strategies for cultivating long-term relationships with foundations, leveraging in-kind donations, identifying foundations whose missions align with a non...

In this episode, we recap and reflect on the The Nonprofit Bookkeeper's journey to date. I also share information about the approach of a summer hiatus and take the opportunity to pause and reflect on some of the topics discussed with guests to date. ABOUT YOUR HOST Aishat operates her own bookkeeping and accounting services practice – BAnC Services which focuses primarily on serving non-profits....

Today's guest Patrick Regan, Founder of Rights Evaluation Studio, an independent monitoring and evaluation consultant, who brings a wealth of experience from his work with health and human rights organizations, sheds light on the importance of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) in the non-profit sector and how to make the most of a limited MEL budget. We explore the critical elements of monitorin...

In this episode of the Nonprofit Bookkeeper, you host Aishat, discusses Financial Sustainability in non-profits. She talks about a two-prong approach to financial sustainability and outlines three actionable steps each for optimizing income and managing costs, all aimed at bolstering your non=profit's financial resilience. KEY TAKEAWAYS Financial sustainability in non-profits is about securing the...

In this episode, we delve into the world of CICs with Fiona Sanders, Co - Director of Miss S, a seasoned expert in CIC accounting. Despite navigating her own health challenges, Fiona's passion for socially conscious finance shines through as she offers invaluable advice for those operating within or considering starting a CIC. KEY TAKEAWAYS CICs are intended to trade and generate income, while cha...

In this inspiring episode of "The Nonprofit Bookkeeper," I sit down with the passionate and driven Denise Stephenson, a lawyer turned advocate who is dedicated to uplifting young black and brown children through her charity, Reach Out to Kids (RO2K). As co-founder of Emancipated Run Crew as well, she's making strides in creating inclusive spaces within the running community. Denise story of resili...

In this episode, your host, Aishat discusses the differences between cash accounting and accrual accounting in non-profit financial management. The benefits and drawbacks of each method are explored and she concludes with three things to consider when deciding on which is appropriate for the non-profit KEY TAKEAWAYS Cash accounting records income and expenses based on the exchange of cash, accrual...

In this episode, I speak to Sarah Broad, the COO of NPC, a charity think tank. We discuss the dynamic role of a charity COO, the challenges of juggling multiple responsibilities and the need for a strong support network. We also delve into importance of the CEO- COO relationship and Sarah emphasizes the value of attitude and constant learning in finance roles and offers tips for acknowledging the...

In this conversation with Pal Sehmi, the founder of SPIRiT U.K. Managed Services, he shares the importance of IT and cybersecurity for non-profits. Pal also clarifies the common misconceptions between data security and cybersecurity, offering insights into creating a secure yet accessible work environment amidst the rise of remote working within non-profit organizations. Our conversation also delv...

In this episode, your host, Aishat delves into the topic of fund accounting for non-profits, emphasizing the importance of recording income and expenditure by fund. Using the scenario of a new company receiving income from various sources, Aishat explains the concept of fund accounting and the classifications of funds. She distinguishes between restricted and unrestricted funds, and also discusses...

Joyce Materego - Woodall, the Director of Finance and Operations of Global Greengrants Fund (GGF) shares her unique journey from aspiring medical student to becoming a qualified accountant with a passion for technology integration. Our conversation explores the importance of empathy, decolonization, and creating inclusive spaces in the context of finance and operations roles. It highlights the nee...

In this conversation, Lewis English, the Founder of Underpin Business and Marketing Consultancy discusses with me, the challenges and misconceptions in non-profit back-office functions and emphasizes the value of outsourcing tasks and focusing on one’s core skills. He stresses the need for non-profits to adopt business-like strategies and shares impactful consulting experiences aiding non-profits....

In this episode of The Nonprofit Bookkeeper, your host Aishat, discusses the basics of charts of accounts and key considerations for start-ups and those looking to migrate to new software. Aishat talks about your aligning your chart of accounts with reporting needs, and the importance of a meaningful and scalable system, and emphasizes the importance of investing time in setting up a well-structur...

Join me and my guest, Ingrid Fawcett, co-founder of Midlife 360, as we explore the world of social enterprises and their unique challenges, focusing on empowering women in midlife. Ingrid shares her journey alongside co-founder Sally Field, blending business acumen with a passion for societal impact, ultimately bridging gaps for women re-entering the workforce. Ingrid also sheds light on the diffe...

Kate Brown, a system accountant with over two decades of experience in the charity sector speaks to Aishat about transitioning from management accountant to system accountant, her experience running her own company, and her decision to return to employment. We also explored the challenges of technology adoption in the charity sector and the importance of balancing stability with innovation. Kate s...