Tips for Runninga Membership Organization
on a Small Budget
Your Organization’s Finances
Board members of small associations become leaders due to a knowledge of their industry, not financial skills
Members with little/no financial experience become Treasurers due to necessity
Not having firm grip on finances makes it hard to make good decisions for association
6 Tips for Presidents of Associations with Small BudgetsUse financial tools
Be smart with technology spending
Keep your focus
Watch administration costs
Keep fundraising
Use volunteers
Financial Tools
•Option 1:Develop in-house financial tools. Use software you already own, such as Excel or Access
•Option 2: Purchase off-the-shelf financial software
Equipment/Technology
Purchase used or low cost when possibleCan often find good prices on used technology
right after an updated version come outSearch the internet for deals
Keep Focus on Your Association’s MissionAsk “does this support the mission” before
making large investmentsEx: will your target market be attending the
conference you are thinking about sponsoring?
Avoid Unnecessary Administration Costs
Use email and electronic newsletters rather than mail
Consider purchasing membership management software, which will consolidate many administrative tools into one
Make fundraising a constant
Brings in funds/increases awareness
Have a dedicated fundraising committee
Use volunteers
Avoid hiring staff when possibleIdentify members show interest and position
as a growth/resume boosting opportunity
Inspiration for Budgeting
“Don't tell me what you value, show me your budget, and I'll tell you what you value." Joe Biden
Presented by StarChapter
Local Chapter Management Made Easy
Website: starchapter.com
Email: [email protected]