American Birkebeiner (1).edited

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Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology *

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Nov 24, 2024

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American Birkebeiner Ski, Run, Bike, Live! We are celebrating the warrior within 50 years! Established in 1973, 35 determined skiers gathered on the starting line for the American Birkebeiner; little did they know they were about to change everything. Today, the "Birkie" provides year-round healthy, active lifestyle events for thousands of adventurous spirits of all ages and abilities Mission: To promote and conduct the finest international cross-country ski competition; To serve as good stewards of the American Birkebeiner Trail; To support healthy and active lifestyles among people of all ages and abilities. – American Birkebeiner Foundation (2023) https://www.birkie.com/about/ History & Timeline Established in 1973 - Looking to Norwegian heritage, the American Birkebeiner is patterned after the Birkebeiner Rennet, honouring and recreating the historic Norwegian event in 1206 when two warrior soldiers skied infant Prince Haakon to safety during the Norwegian Civil War. Prince Haakon later became King of Norway, and the Birkebeiner Soldiers symbolized courage, perseverance and character in the face of adversity. The term Berkebeiner because of the birch leggings they wore. Timeline: 1978 – Worldloppet League pg. 1

1985 – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation was formed Founder lost control of event because of bankruptcy of his Telmark Resort property and other interests. 2020 – Purchase of the Telemark Resort, a forecasted 10.2 Million renovation project 2020 - Sold a portion of the resort to Landmark Conservancy Nonprofit land trust in western/Northwestern Wisconsin 678,000.00 – Telmark Forest preserve The total population of Hayward/Cable Wisconsin in 2021 is 3,192 (2021) Citydata.com The American Birkebeiner Foundation provides the Hayward/Cable area of Northern Wisconsin with a significant opportunity for tourism revenue. Identifying metrics to measure its financial impact on those communities is essential. The Birkebeiner race averages 8,000 – 10,000 event participants in Birkebeiner alone (this does not include any other Ski, Bike, and run activities offered throughout the season. An estimated 40,000 enthusiasts come to the area during the week to participate in festivities. The Population of the Hayward/Cable area is 3,872 (2021) The potential total impact on community/tourism if 1=$1000.00 is 40,000,000.00 It is no wonder that the Birkebeiner race is included in the Town of Haywards Master Plan as a community resource/Economic Development. There are no other cross-country race organizations in Wisconsin that offer the style of course and the race opportunity that the American Birkebeiner Foundation offers. Only a handful of other cross-country ski resorts offer competition racing in the United States. With a generous cross-country ski population estimated at 5 million, there is an opportunity for the Birkebeiner to expand its offerings and host more Cross-Country Ski competitions. When not hosting competitions, the American Birkebeiner Foundation trails and facilities are open for anyone pg. 2

interested in the great outdoors. The expansion into Run and Bike presents the organization with additional populations to tap into for resources. An estimated 50 million people are participating in running, and an estimated 54 million are bikers. Again, the community for outdoor events is significant and will be an excellent opportunity for the Birkebeiner to tap into additional activities that focus on those populations for growth. This organization reported a 13-member board with 26 employees and 1,840 volunteers. The Executive Director's salary is reported as $130,619.00, with an additional compensation/benefit of $3,919.00. (2021) IRS 990. No additional officers, directors, trustees, key employees, or highly compensated employees have reported compensation. However, the total expenses reported in 2021 for current officers and critical personnel compensation is $147,243. The American Birkebeiner Foundation states that it is a membership organization; however, by reviewing Annual reports and IRS 990 forms, there is no breakdown for membership revenues. Charity Navigator rates this Nonprofit Organization 89%, earning it a Three-Star rating. -Charity Navigator (2023) American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation pg. 3

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Introduction: With its roots in the rich history of cross-country skiing, but at heart a forward-looking contemporary organization within the world of winter sports, the American Birkebeiner Foundation (ABF) is an icon. Sprouted in 1973, the ABF has grown into not only a refuge for ski lovers but also an environment to nourish unity and promote healing while at the same time conserving Nordic ski culture. Historical Background and Establishment Tony Wise and Ernie St. Germaine's visionary aspirations are the origins of The ABF. The historic, great Birkebeiner race in Norway had also inspired Wise and St. Germaine to bring the spirit of this revered event to the United States. 1973, this dream became a reality with the first American Birkebeiner race in Hayward, Wisconsin. It started as a low-key event but paved the way for an event that would become a legend. Mission and Core Objectives The Mission of the American Birkebeiner Foundation, at its heart, is a multi-faceted undertaking with but one purpose: to promote and foster development in cross-country skiing while building community life. The ABF strives to achieve this mission through several key objectives:  Promotion of Nordic Skiing: The foundation actively welcomes people to cross-country skiing, and its events and programs have been developed with all levels of participants in mind--from beginners to elite athletes.  Cultural Preservation: The preservation of the Nordic ski heritage and traditions is at its heart, in memory of the historical significance of the Birkebeiner race and with a nod toward its cultural ties. pg. 4

 Health and Wellness: The foundation's skiing activities and educational programs promote health through an active lifestyle.  Significance in Operations  The significance of the American Birkebeiner Foundation resonates deeply within the operations it undertakes:  The American Birkebeiner Race: The annual American Birkebeiner ski race is the cornerstone of ABF's operations. Over time, it has grown into the largest cross-country ski marathon in North America. Thousands of participants from around the world participate in it, and it reflects a spirit of endurance, craftsmanship and camaraderie.  Cultural Events and Educational Programs: Apart from within the race, ABF holds various cultural activities, including workshop programs and education. These initiatives aim to teach and encourage those involved, inculcating a greater understanding of the sport's past achievements.  Youth Development Initiatives: ABF has programs for youth, scholarships and events designed to introduce young people to Nordic skiing.  Community Outreach: Theater Group is at the forefront despite ABF's broad reach, working with local communities, schools, and organizations to bring winter athletics opportunities far outside the classic geographic boundaries of its members in New York City. Organizational and Budgetary Overview: The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation is a membership organization. Memberships are annual for individuals, families, and businesses. The Foundation is led by a 13-member Board of Directors with six permanent and several part-time and seasonal staff. The permanent pg. 5

staff includes an Executive Director, a Director of Race Operations, and an Office Manager. The mission of the Birkebeiner is to promote and conduct the finest international cross-country ski competition, To serve as good stewards of the American Birkebeiner Trail, and To support healthy and active lifestyles among people of all ages and abilities. In addition, The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated, as reflected in the Birkie Mission Statement, to hosting one of the world's best cross-country ski events, the American Birkebeiner, maintaining one of the nation’s premier recreation trails, and promoting healthy lifestyles for people of all ages. The American Birkebeiner comprises several events, including the 51K and 55K Birkie marathon races and the 24K Korteloppet race (the second-largest ski race in North America). – (2023) American Birkebeiner The ABSF presents its financial statements on an accrual basis by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (US GAAP). Certain items are maintained on a cash basis, which is similar to the accrual basis of accounting. The ABSF fiscal year spans July 1 through June 30. (2023) American Birkebeiner Foundation The financial statements include specific prior years' summarized comparative financial information in total but not by net asset class. Such information needs to include more detail to constitute a presentation conforming to US GAAP. Accordingly, such information should be read in conjunction with ABSF's financial statements for the year ending June 30, 2021, from which the summarized information was derived. All financials within are unaudited results. Sources of income for the American Birkebeiner Foundation (ABF) Donations and Grants pg. 6

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Charitable donations and grants are one of the largest sources of revenue for the American Birkebeiner Foundation. Our ability to fulfil this mission is primarily based on the generosity of individuals, businesses and philanthropic organizations who share an interest in Nordic skiing and living a healthy, active lifestyle. Passionate skiers, sponsors and supporters provide substantial donations to fund ABF operations, activities and youth development. Such grants from government agencies, sports associations and foundations are essential to ABF's financial security. Many of these grants focus on individual projects, ranging from skiing programs for young people to developing structures like lifts and cable cars or cultural conservation efforts. In doing so, ABF makes itself even more influential within the world's northern sports community. Sponsorships ABF's other important revenue source is sponsorship deals. The foundation works with corporate partners, outdoor sports brands, equipment manufacturers and local businesses to secure sponsorships. The partnerships can take many forms, from cash to in-kind support or promotion. In return for their involvement with ABF's activities, corporate sponsors enjoy the visibility and brand identification associated with the American Birkebeiner ski race. Companies may provide financial backing for race logistics, cash prizes, advertising or exclusive product placement at ABF events. On the other hand, they get visibility and an audience of skiers inside venues in front of media coverage outside. After all, who doesn't want a slice of The American Birkebeiner--with its prestige and name recognition? Event Registration Fees Fees collected from event registration, particularly ABF's registrants for the American Birkebeiner ski race and other events carried out year-round, are essential to its revenue. People pg. 7

of all age groups and from various skill levels sign up to take part in the marathon race, shorter races, and other related activities during Birkie Week. The registration fees pay for race logistics, participant services, course maintenance, timing systems and event operations. The fees collected directly fund event proceedings, making it a truly memorable experience for participants. Merchandise Sales The ABF's operation also creates revenue by selling merchandise, such as official apparel for the event, souvenirs and accessories, or skiing equipment. The online, at events and with retail outlet partners in a brand image that participants, supporters and skiing enthusiasts prefer. Sales of merchandise generate revenue for ABF and offer a way through which participants and fans can remember their involvement in the American Birkebeiner race while supporting its activities. Other Revenue Streams Additional revenue streams for ABF may include: 1. Corporate relationships other than sponsorships, including advertising agreements and licensing arrangements. 2. Membership programs or subscription-based services that provide unique benefits to patrons. 3. Charitable events include fundraising feasts, auctions or charity dinners to fund specific projects and causes. 4. Investment income derived from sound administration of endowments or reserve funds. (2023) American Birkebeiner Foundation Current Financial Condition pg. 8

The American Birkebeiner Foundation has consistently reported revenue increases from 2016 to 2021 (IRS 990). Even during the Covid-19 pandemic, we saw consistency in earnings and minor disruption in 2021. The American Birkebeiner Foundation is reporting record event revenues over their biggest earning year in 2019. Figure 1. Contributions and Program Service Revenue pg. 9

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 $0 $500,000 $1,000,000 $1,500,000 $2,000,000 $2,500,000 $3,000,000 Contributions Vs Program Service Contributions Program Services Figure 2. Revenue Expense Net Income & Net Asset 2015 - 2022 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 $0.00 $1,000,000.00 $2,000,000.00 $3,000,000.00 $4,000,000.00 $5,000,000.00 $6,000,000.00 Revenue Expense Net Income Net Asset 2015 - 2021 Revenue Expenses Net Income Net Asset pg. 10

Assets and Liabilities The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation assets have consistently grown from 2016 to 2021, and their Liquidity ratio, which determines how quickly a company can convert assets, averages 2.659. Anything over one will be rated as good. The Debt to Asset ratio averages .383; Debt ratios should range between .3 - .6; investors should feel comfortable with the Birkebeiner Debt to Asset ratio being 3.83. Figure 1 Assets & Liabilities 2016 - 2021 pg. 11

The American Birkebeiner has expanded its race offerings to include additional seasonal races for the trails to be utilized year-round. The current races are: Skiing – 17 Run – 2 Bike – 4 These expanded offerings bring in additional event revenue (and, of course, incur expenses) and allow the existing facilities to be utilized year-round. Figure 3. Asset Turnover From 2015 – 2021, asset turnover ratios were reported. (a) 2016 (a) 2017 (b) 2018 (c) 2019 (d) 2020 (e) 2021 $0.00 $1,000,000.00 $2,000,000.00 $3,000,000.00 $4,000,000.00 $5,000,000.00 $6,000,000.00 $7,000,000.00 $8,000,000.00 $9,000,000.00 Asset Turnover Revenue Total Assets Asset Turnover Ratio pg. 12

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2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 $0.00 $1,000,000.00 $2,000,000.00 $3,000,000.00 $4,000,000.00 $5,000,000.00 $6,000,000.00 Net Income vs Net Asset Net Income Net Asset 4. Program Services and Contribution There is a significant transition in revenue generated from program services and contributions. pg. 13

In 2016, 76% of revenue came from program services & 23.7% from contributions; in 2022, 48.9% of revenue was from contributions & 44.1% from program services. Additional attention should be paid to revenue sources and what the flattening of these sources means, if anything. Figure 5. Revenue Expense Revenue Expenses 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 pg. 14

KEY FEATURES Expansion from the original Birkebeiner event to multiple events and monetizing program hosting for organizations. Wages/ Executive Earnings Average 33% of total expenses (Low Executive Salaries) Reinvestment through education – Pay it forward • Ensuring a pool of users through education Reinvestment through acquisition – Mt Telmark Resort Assessment: The American Birkebeiner Foundation is fiscally responsible and financially solvent. There is a consistent Scalable track record from 2015 – 2021. In 2021, the drop in Revenue/ Net income/Expenses/Net assets to be expected because of the effects of the Covid 19 Pandemic There were programming limitations and volunteer resources limited due to the pandemic; however, there is an upside. The Upside is that people love to go outside in nature, "social distance" facilities are utilized, and income is still generated, though not on the scale it was in 2019 -53% 54euction in net income. pg. 15

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2022 reporting looks like they are back better than ever 40% increase in net revenue over the highest year prior 2019The concern is the Acquisition of the Mt Telmark resort in 2020. When other nonprofits held their breath and tapped into rainy day funds. The American Birkebeiner Foundation went full steam ahead with a capital acquisition of the Mt Telmark resort and grounds. They did sell a portion of the resort grounds to another Conservancy Nonprofit that offset their total purchase by $678,000.00. The Mt. Telmark resort project is an estimated 10.2 million dollar project for which the American Birkebeiner Foundation is actively recruiting donations. Once the project is completed, the potential is an even better Birkebeiner experience. Providing Northern Wisconsin with facilities will bring tourism revenue to the area for years to come, not only for the American Birkebeiner race but through all seasons to Run and Bike. pg. 16

The organization has become more sophisticated with its annual reporting and Executive Director, Treasurer, and Marketing roles. Reporting has evolved, and categories don't align as they used to. Additional attention must be reported to ensure the information provided aligns with GAAP reporting methodologies and audited documents are available for the public. pg. 17

Fund Utilization and Allocation at the American Birkebeiner Foundation Funding The allocation of funds to achieve ABF's stated goal is that we promote Nordic skiing and provide community program support while getting involved in event operations and engaging the public on an ongoing basis. ABF divides up its funds among different programs and projects. It also provides information on the patterns of how these are spent. Allocation Across Programs and Initiatives Nordic Skiing Events: ABF spends much of its funds organizing Nordic skiing events, especially the American Birkebeiner race. These funds are for race logistics, course maintenance and safety procedures, services to participants and event promotion. Furthermore, resources are devoted to other skiing events and clinics held annually where participants can participate or observe. Youth Development Programs: ABF invests funds into youth development programs to introduce and develop young people's interest in cross-country skiing. These programs include scholarships, youth races, training camps and cooperation with schools or organizations to share the opportunity for skiing among children and teenagers. Cultural Preservation and Education: Funds are allocated to protect the cultural heritage of Nordic skiing. This entails hosting cultural activities, workshops and educational programs that explore the history, technology and impact of fencing. ABF supports projects that respect the historical origins of the Birkebeiner race, and it enables an appreciation for Nordic skiing traditions. Analysis of Expenditure Patterns pg. 18

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Administrative Expenses : Administrative costs cover all the day-to-day running of ABF--the salaries and benefits paid to staff, rent for offices, utilities, electricity bills, insurance premiums (including fire precautions), accounting fees, legal services charges, etc. Though necessarily so for the foundation's operations, ABF strives to hold down administrative costs as much as possible to make more resources available. Program-Related Expenses : Most of ABF's spending goes into program-related expenses. They include costs directly related to organizing events and youth programs, supporting cultural initiatives, and maintaining the infrastructure for skiing events. Activities include race logistics, equipment rental and venue rents, participant services and educational activities. Fundraising Costs: The ABF pays fundraising costs for donations, sponsorships and grants. These expenses include marketing campaigns, fundraising events and outreach to donors, and administrative costs related to fundraising activities. The foundation endeavours to make the fundraising process cost-effective so that many funds raised go directly toward its programs. Focus on Efficiency and Impact To get the most out of its core objectives, ABF emphasizes prudent financial management. The foundation performs regular assessments and budgetary reviews to reallocate resources, keeping in mind that priorities change while maintaining financial stability. pg. 19

ABF balances administrative efficiency and program effectiveness to try its best to keep overhead costs low while retaining the resources for promoting Nordic skiing, youth development activities, cultural preservation projects or community involvement. Budgeting and financial planning at the American Birkebeiner Foundation. Overview of ABF's Budgeting Process The American Birkebeiner Foundation (ABF) is thorough and systematic in its budgeting, ensuring financial resources are devoted to achieving its mission. The process involves several key steps: Goal Setting and Objective Alignment: ABF's budgeting process begins by defining clear organizational goals and objectives. These include event organization, youth development programs, cultural projects and participation by the community. Matching the budget to these goals ensures that financial resources are used wisely. Revenue Projection: Potential revenue sources (donations, sponsorships, event registrations, etc) are carefully accessed by ABF. Using historical data, market trends, and fundraising strategies, comprehensive revenue projections are drawn. Expense Estimation and Allocation: The foundation carefully itemizes estimated expenditures by program and administration. Costs for event logistics, youth programs, cultural initiatives, administrative overheads, fundraising efforts, and other operational expenses are estimated. Funding is allocated to programs that have the most significant impact on core programs. pg. 20

Budget Development and Approval: ABF integrates revenue projections with expense estimates and produces a total budget. The budget also undergoes a rigorous review process. Approval is obtained from key stakeholders, the board of directors, financial experts, and relevant committees. After finalization, the budget is approved by the board to make sure that it meets organizational objectives. Monitoring and Adaptation: The budget is an essential action guide throughout the fiscal year. ABF monitors and analyzes financial performance against budgeted targets, allowing it to respond intuitively when circumstances change or determine where funds need reallocation to reach goals. Appraisal of Budgetary Performance in Achieving Organizational Objectives ABF's budgeting process is instrumental in steering the foundation towards achieving its objectives: Goal Alignment: The budgeting process ensures financial resources align with ABF's mission and strategic goals. The budget helps strengthen these goals by focusing funds on events, youth development, cultural efforts and community links. Financial Accountability: The budget is a means for financial responsibility and accountability. ABF can monitor its performance to ensure it adopts responsible financial management and meets budgeted goals. Resource Optimization: The budgeting process allows for the optimum use of resources. High-impact areas are identified and receive funding accordingly. By so doing, ABF can make the most effective use of its financial resources for programs and projects. pg. 21

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Budgetary Constraints and Challenges Despite ABF's robust budgeting process, several challenges and constraints may influence financial planning: Revenue Volatility: Depending on donative funding, sponsorships and event registration fees leave ABF vulnerable to revenue fluctuations. Economic conditions, market dynamics, or unforeseen factors can challenge fundraising activities. Fundraising. Cost Management: Balancing the allocation of funds between programs and keeping administrative costs at reasonable levels makes for a difficult task. ABF constantly checks cost- efficiency measures to spend less without impairing the quality of programs. External Factors: Unforeseen financial problems may arise from changes to regulations, economic slumps or unexpected events (like natural disasters), but if things turn sour in the blink of an eye, you've got to be just as fleet on your feet. Governance and Compliance at the American Birkebeiner Foundation Overview of ABF's Governance Structure The American Birkebeiner Foundation (ABF) has established a robust governance structure under which oversight, decision-making and accountability are ensured. The foundation's governance framework typically includes: Board of Directors: Managing ABF The Board of Directors, consisting of a large number of distinguished individuals whose expertise and experience cover a wide range, is responsible for setting the strategic direction and approving policies governing our business's conduct. Board members are nominated according to their interest and involvement in the organization's mission and on a case-by-case basis for skills they can offer when discussing issues such as finance, sports management, fundraising or how we engage with our community. pg. 22

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Executive Leadership: ABF is set up with an executive team headed by a President or Executive Director to oversee daily operations and implement board directives. It also provides leadership for staff members and volunteers on the ground. Its leadership allows the foundation to implement its mission by strategy. Committees and Advisory Groups: The foundation may form committees or advisory boards about finance, fundraising and events planning, governance matters, and youth training. They offer the board and executive leadership specialized guidance and recommendations. Policies and Procedures: ABF establishes and administers governance policies regarding ethical standards, financial oversight, conflict of interest policy, and decision-making processes. These frameworks guarantee compliance, transparency and accountability in the organization. Legal and Regulatory Compliance : One of ABF's main focuses is compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. It also means compliance with federal, state and local laws regulating nonprofits, regulations governing taxation of charitable contributions, and requirements for reporting fundraising activities to appropriate authorities (charity registration). Nonprofit Compliance: ABF works under regulations for nonprofit organizations, adhering to the laws on governance and tax exemption and those regulating charitable contributions or responsibilities of original intent. Financial Reporting: The foundation uses Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) in its financial reporting. It produces accurate and comprehensive financial statements, including annual reports, balance sheets, income statements, and disclosures that give stakeholders precise and reliable figures. pg. 23

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Tax Compliance: ABF complies with federal and state tax laws for nonprofit organizations. It undertakes tax reporting, such as annual returns and Form 990, and compliance with exemption requirements. Charitable Solicitation Laws: ABF complies with the state laws governing charitable solicitations, proper registration and reporting for fundraising activities conducted in different states of jurisdiction. Transparency of financial reporting and disclosure. Financial reporting and disclosure are critical priorities for ABF's dealings with stakeholders, donors and the public. Transparency is achieved through: Public Reporting: The foundation offers detailed financial reports, from annual to audited and the IRS Form 990. These reports cover the organization's financial status, programmatic activities, governance structure and use of funds. Stakeholder Communication: Through newsletters, press releases, website updates and public events, ABF communicates regularly with stakeholders. Donors are informing the volunteers and lobbying all citizen spheres to raise support for its art activities and west. The communication clarifies how the foundation is doing, its achievements and difficulties, and where its financial situation stands. Donor Transparency: ABF ensures transparency in donor relations by letting donors know what their contributions are used for. This creates a feeling of trust between donors, who receive reports on the impact of their gifts. ABF's Five Main Financial Problems Revenue Volatility: ABF encounters the problem of irregular revenue. In particular, donations and sponsorships account for a large proportion; event registrations also form an pg. 24

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essential portion. Fluctuations in economic conditions or unexpected events cause the uncertainty of revenues. Cost Management: A common problem is balancing operational costs against programmatic spending. Efficiently administered expenses can't be at the expense of events, youth program quality, or cultural initiatives. Resource Allocation: Spreading limited resources across many programs and initiatives takes time and effort. In addition to providing funds for core programs, youth development, and event organization, special allocation committees must also consider budget constraints. Opportunities for Increasing Revenue or Reducing Cost Diversification of Revenue Streams: For example, ABF can consider expanding its revenue sources from traditional donations and sponsorships. They could explore merchandise sales, develop subscription-based services or design exclusive membership programs to give them a more stable and plentiful source of revenue. Enhanced Sponsorship and Partnership Opportunities: Searching for more significant financial support through strengthened relations with existing sponsors and seeking new strategic partnerships. ABF would offer sponsors new forms of partnership, providing greater exposure and special rights at events and various benefits throughout the year. Efficiency in Cost Management: Quality has to be maintained while doing so. Cost savings without impacting program effectiveness can be accomplished by evaluating operational efficiencies, renegotiating contracts and optimizing procurement processes. Strategies to reduce financial risks and improve the sustainability of finances pg. 25

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Financial Reserves and Contingency Planning: Accumulating financial reserves can also build a safety net in an economic downturn or a crisis. ABF may set up reserve funds to capture the opportunities and mitigate risks created by revenue fluctuations. Diversification of Fundraising Efforts: With diversified fundraising activities throughout the year, reliance on a single campaign can be reduced. This involves running targeted campaigns, holding more intimate fundraising activities and keeping donors on board throughout the year to ensure a consistent revenue stream. Strategic Budgeting and Prioritization: This must be accompanied by continued strategic budgeting and selection of initiatives consistent with the organization's mission. Every year, ABF must review and adjust its budget to better allocate resources to achieve maximum effectiveness and community engagement in our core programs. Enhanced Donor Engagement and Stewardship: One way to accomplish this is to foster stronger relationships with donors through personal engagement, impact reports and appreciative gestures for good work. This ultimately can help maintain continued support or even gradually raise the amount of giving over time. Conclusion: There is consistent improvement in reporting and transparency for Birkebeiner. Their overall financial health is good. It is an organization to keep an eye on. There are exciting things in store, and opportunities exist. Additional professional staff might need to be considered to advance the Organization's current activities and mission. Nonprofit organizations run lean and need to pay more attention to the need for additional resources, staff and volunteers. Even though the volunteer pool is significant, I would consider additional reporting and marketing team members to keep momentum going forward. pg. 26

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pg. 27

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References Chen, Weikert, Williams (2015) Budget Tools: Financial Methods in the Public Sector: CQ Press Weikert, Chen (2022) Budgeting and Financial Management for Nonprofit Organizations: Using Money to Drive Mission Success. Waveland Press Coe (2007) Government and Nonprofit Financial Management: Management Concepts American Birkebeiner Foundation (2023) https://www.birkie.com IRS Nonprofit Organization Search (2023) https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/tax-exempt- organization-search ProPublica (2023) https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/391503175 Charity Navigator (2023) American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation - https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/391503175 pg. 28

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American Birkebeiner (1).edited

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