Understanding Strategic Planning in the Non-Profit Sector: Foundations, Functions, and Practices

Understanding Strategic Planning in the Non-Profit Sector: Foundations, Functions, and Practices

Journal: NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies

Publisher: NEYA Global Publishing
Author: Dr. Anna Neya Kazanskaia
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0009-5669-1676
Publication date: 10 August 2025

Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.64357/uspnp-2025 
Journal DOI: https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps


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Abstract

This paper examines the core foundations, functions, and practices of strategic planning in the non-profit sector. It traces the historical development of strategic planning in mission-driven organizations and explores how participatory design, adaptability, and mission alignment contribute to sustainable impact. The study contrasts traditional linear models with adaptive approaches, providing a framework for translating strategy into governance, programs, and measurable outcomes.

Keywords: strategic planning; non-profit sector; governance; mission alignment; adaptive strategy; stakeholder engagement; impact measurement 


How to cite

APA:
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Understanding strategic planning in the non-profit sector: Foundations, functions, and practices. NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies. https://doi.org/10.64357/uspnp-2025

MLA:
Kazanskaia, Anna Neya. “Understanding Strategic Planning in the Non-Profit Sector: Foundations, Functions, and Practices.” NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies, 2025, https://doi.org/10.64357/uspnp-2025.

Chicago (Author–Date):
Kazanskaia, Anna Neya. 2025. “Understanding Strategic Planning in the Non-Profit Sector: Foundations, Functions, and Practices.” NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies. https://doi.org/10.64357/uspnp-2025.

Harvard:
Kazanskaia, A.N. (2025) ‘Understanding strategic planning in the non-profit sector: Foundations, functions, and practices’, NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies. doi: 10.64357/uspnp-2025.

IEEE:
A. N. Kazanskaia, “Understanding Strategic Planning in the Non-Profit Sector: Foundations, Functions, and Practices,” NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies, 2025, doi: 10.64357/uspnp-2025.

License: CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 — Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International


References

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