News & Insights

While technical accounting updates remain a cornerstone of the AICPA Not-for-Profit Industry Conference, many of the conversations extended well beyond debits and credits. The overarching message was clear: nonprofit organizations are operating amid unprecedented complexity, and finance leaders are being called upon to do far more than ensure compliance. They are expected to help shape strategy, anticipate risks, and guide organizations toward long-term sustainability.  

Whether discussions centered on funding uncertainty, regulatory change, technology adoption, or financial reporting, a common thread emerged: organizations that embrace proactive planning and strategic financial leadership will be best positioned to thrive in the years ahead. The Conference also included sessions on community and wellness, highlighting the importance of self-care for long-term success while balancing the profession’s demands. 

The Evolving Role of the Nonprofit Finance Leader 

One of the conference’s most compelling themes was the continued evolution of the CFO and finance function. Today’s finance leaders are increasingly expected to serve as strategic partners—not just scorekeepers. 

As one presenter noted, nonprofit finance professionals need a seat at the decision-making table, helping organizations answer not only “Can we afford this?” but also “How can we make this work?” That mindset shift reflects the growing expectation that finance teams bring insight, foresight, and creativity to organizational strategy.  

This is especially important as nonprofit leaders navigate competing priorities, including mission expansion, workforce investments, technology initiatives, funding changes, and donor expectations. The organizations finding success are often those whose finance leaders are helping translate mission-driven goals into financially sustainable strategies. 

From Scenario Planning to Going Concern Analysis 

The days of relying on a single annual budget are rapidly fading. Leaders are increasingly building multiple forecasts and asking difficult—but necessary—questions: 

These types of “what-if” analyses allow organizations to identify challenges before they become emergencies. Rather than reacting to disruptions, organizations that consider potential outcomes and develop contingency plans are better positioned to adapt as circumstances change.  

Connected to this discussion was the importance of going concern analysis. Historically, some organizations viewed going concern evaluations primarily as an annual audit requirement. Today, many finance leaders are recognizing that going concern analysis is an extension of effective scenario planning.  

When organizations routinely evaluate cash flow, funding concentrations, liquidity, and future operating assumptions, they gain valuable insight into both risks and opportunities. More importantly, they can engage boards and leadership teams in meaningful discussions before concerns become critical issues. 

During Maner’s upcoming webinar on August 27, we’ll take a closer look at going concern analysis, including: 

Rather than treating the process as a compliance requirement, organizations can use it as a valuable tool for strengthening financial stewardship and organizational resilience. 

Compliance Remains Critical—But It’s Getting More Complex 

While strategic leadership was a dominant theme, compliance remains a significant focus for nonprofit organizations. 

Conference sessions highlighted the growing complexity surrounding financial and tax reporting, grant compliance, internal controls, and audit requirements. As regulatory expectations continue to evolve, finance teams are being asked to do more with the same resources while maintaining transparency and accountability to donors, boards, regulators, and other stakeholders.  

Organizations that invest in staff development, modernize financial systems, and strengthen internal controls are better equipped to manage change and reduce compliance risk. In an environment where requirements can shift quickly, preparedness matters.  

If you’re interested in learning more about the preparation and review of IRS Form 990 and you missed our May 28 Nonprofit Education Series webinar, we invite you to watch the recording available here. 

Technology Is Moving from Nice-to-Have to Need-to-Have 

Technology and artificial intelligence were also prominent topics throughout the conference. Nonprofit organizations continue to seek ways to improve efficiency, automate routine tasks, and leverage data to make better decisions. At the same time, discussions emphasized the importance of thoughtful implementation and effective governance.  

What’s particularly interesting is how the conversation around artificial intelligence (AI) has matured. A year or two ago, many organizations were asking whether they should explore AI. The question today is how they can use AI responsibly, effectively, and strategically. 

Finance teams have an opportunity to lead these conversations by helping establish policies, assess risks, and evaluate controls. As new technologies become integrated into daily operations, balancing innovation with oversight will be crucial to maintaining stakeholder trust.  

We’ll continue this discussion during our upcoming webinar on October 29, where we’ll consider practical applications of AI and security concerns related to the tools. 

Looking Ahead: Accounting and Auditing Developments on the Horizon 

Several conference sessions also reminded attendees that the accounting and auditing professions continue to evolve. As standard setters and regulators issue new guidance and refine existing requirements, nonprofit organizations must remain vigilant to ensure their reporting and compliance processes keep pace. 

Keeping up with accounting and auditing developments can be challenging amid competing operational demands. However, organizations that understand new requirements early are better positioned to assess potential impacts, strengthen internal processes, and avoid last-minute implementation challenges. Finance leaders who stay informed can provide more effective guidance to their organizations while ensuring financial reporting remains both compliant and decision-useful. 

These topics will be explored further during our upcoming webinar on August 27, where we’ll provide an overview of noteworthy accounting and auditing updates impacting nonprofit organizations.  

Final Thoughts 

The 2026 AICPA Not-for-Profit Industry Conference offered much more than technical updates. It provided a powerful reminder that strong financial leadership is one of the most important drivers of organizational success.  Don’t worry if you missed the conference – as mentioned above, Maner Costerisan’s upcoming Nonprofit Education Series webinars will further discuss some of these topics. Register today using the link below.