Teaching Paper: Developing an Investment Policy Statement for Non-Profit Organizations

Teaching Paper: Developing an Investment Policy Statement for Non-Profit Organizations

A Practical Template for Defining Investment Goals, Risk Management, and Governance Structure

Author: Dr. Anna Neya Kazanskaia
Publisher: NEYA Global Publishing
Teaching Paper | NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies
Year: 2025
ORCID: 0009-0009-5669-1676

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-fnmnbstprtl-tp-08

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About the Paper

Investment management is an essential component of non-profit financial sustainability, particularly for organizations with endowments or reserve funds. This Teaching Paper presents a practical framework for developing an Investment Policy Statement (IPS) that defines investment goals, risk tolerance, asset allocation, and governance responsibilities. It explains how IPS documents provide transparency, consistency, and accountability in financial decision-making while aligning with mission-driven objectives. A case study from Thailand demonstrates how a structured IPS improved oversight, enhanced donor trust, and supported long-term program funding. Reflection questions and practical tips make this resource a tool for both academics and practitioners, bridging financial theory with actionable governance strategies.

Key Topics

  • Investment goals and mission alignment
  • Risk tolerance assessment for non-profits
  • Asset allocation strategies and diversification
  • Governance roles and investment committee structures
  • Monitoring, reporting, and portfolio rebalancing
  • Transparency, accountability, and donor confidence

Suggested Citation

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Teaching Paper: Developing an Investment Policy Statement for Non-Profit Organizations: A Practical Template for Defining Investment Goals, Risk Management, and Governance Structure. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-fnmnbstprtl-tp-08

References

Bryson, J. M. (2018). Strategic Planning for Public and Nonprofit Organizations (5th ed.). Jossey-Bass.

Drucker, P. F. (1990). Managing the Nonprofit Organization. HarperCollins.

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Financial Management: Best Practices and Tools. NEYA Global Publishing.
https://doi.org/10.64357/financial-management-2025

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Core Principles of International Development. NEYA Global Publishing.

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Climate Change and Development: Strategies for Adaptation. NEYA Global Publishing.
https://doi.org/10.64357/climate-change-and-development-2025

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Tech-Driven Community Engagement. NEYA Global Publishing.
https://doi.org/10.64357/tech-driven-community-engagement-2025

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Investment management for non-profit organizations: Policies, endowments, and risk oversight. Neya Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies.
https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-fnmnbstprtl-09

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Financial sustainability in non-profit organizations: Strategies for resilience and growth. Neya Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies.
https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-fnmnbstprtl-11

National Council of Nonprofits. (2021). Investment Policies for Nonprofits: Guidelines and Best Practices.

Patton, M. Q. (2008). Utilization-Focused Evaluation (4th ed.). Sage Publications.

https://neyaglobal.com/journal-nonprofit/teaching-paper-developing-an-investment-policy-statement-for-non-profit-organizations
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September 29, 2025