What is the correct balance between mission vs. margin?

• A. Meet/surpass the mission with a little left over for the Future Fund.
• B. Maximize margin even if it compromises mission.
• C. Prioritize mission exclusively with no reserves.
• D. Place equal emphasis on margins and unrelated ventures.

Answer: (A)

Balancing mission impact with financial sustainability. In nonprofit stewardship, the goal is to deliver the mission effectively today while building buffers for the future. The best approach is to meet or exceed the mission and set aside a modest surplus for a Future Fund. This ensures programs run strongly now and there’s a reserve to weather uncertainties or fund future opportunities, without sacrificing current impact. Chasing larger margins at the cost of program quality undermines impact; neglecting reserves can jeopardize long-term viability; and allocating resources to unrelated ventures dilutes focus from the core mission. So, delivering the mission with a little extra for a Future Fund provides both immediate effectiveness and sustainable growth.