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Introduction to Fiscal Stewardship
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The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is committed to saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature.
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Learning Objectives
1. Mission, Money, and Impact
2. Understanding Nonprofits
3. Mastering Budgets and Cost Control
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Mission, Money, and Impact
In this section, we’ll explore how our mission, financial strategies, and conservation impact are interconnected.
Real World Impact
Conservation Efforts
Fiscal stewardship plays a critical role in advancing our mission in a responsible and impactful way.
Key Financial Concepts
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Strategic Priorities
Mission, Money, and Impact
Conservation Leadership
Employer of Choice
Performance and Financial Health
World Class Experience
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Complete the sentence
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Match the Strategic Priority with the metric that is used to measuer its success.
Match the Priorities
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Terms in action
Minus Wages, Conservation Efforts, & Administrative: ($75 Million)
Minus Cost of Goods ($50 Million)
Total Revenue
$150 Million
Minus Interest and Taxes: ($5 Million)
$25 Million
Operating Profit
Net Profit
$20 Million
$100 Million
Gross Profit
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Match the term to the definition
Link each term to its corresponding defintion by dragging the pointer.
Represents how profitable your organization is. Revenue after deducting all expenses, COGS, interest, and taxes.
Represents how profitable your operations are. Revenue after deducting all expenses and COGS.
Represents how profitable our ticketing sales, products or services are. Revenue after deducting all expenses and COGS.
Money earned by the organization from all sources before any expenses are deducted.
Direct costs required to operate SDZWA, including wildlife food, merchandise, etc.
Cost of Goods (COG)
Total Revenue
Gross Profit
Operating Profit
Net Profit
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Learning Objectives
1. Mission, Money, and Impact
2. Understanding Nonprofits
3. Mastering Budgets and Cost Control
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Understanding Nonprofits
Differentiate between Nonprofit and For Profit Organizations
Fiscal Stewardship in a Nonprofit
Identify Governence Roles
Understanding Non-profits
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SDZWA
For Profit
Governance Roles
For Profit
Guides strategic decisions in for-profit entities.
Guides strategic decisions in for-profit entities.
Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Responsible for guiding the company's strategic decisions, monitoring its performance, and representing the interests of shareholders.
Responsible for guiding the company's strategic decisions, monitoring its performance, and representing the interests of shareholders.
Oversees our mission purpose, and overall strategic direction.
Board of Trustees
Trustees are often appointed or elected and may include individuals with specific expertise or affiliations relevant to the organization's mission.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Board of Trustees comprises key roles essential for effective governance.
SDZWA Board
Our Board of Trustees includes the Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Secretary, and General Board Members.
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Who Makes up the Board of Trustees?
Click on each position below to learn more about their responisbilities.
General Members
Vice Chair
Chair
Treasurer
Secretary
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For Profits vs Nonprofits
Supports
Revenue
Profits
Operations and Workforce
Customer sales
Generate profits for stakeholders
For Profit
Donors, grants, and revenue from sales and services
Reinvest surplus revenue
Nonprofit
Paid staff and strategic priorities
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Drag each topic to the Board that is responisbile for it.
Represent Shareholders
Monitor Performance
Strategic Decisions
Strategic Direction
Mission
Purpose
Board of Directors
Board of Trustees
Match the Board
Solution
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Learning Objectives
1. Mission, Money, and Impact
2. Understanding Nonprofits
3. Mastering Budgets and Cost Control
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Mastering Budgets
Budget Development Best Practices
Importance of Budgeting and Cost Control
Cost Control Techniques
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Toolkit
Mission: Fiscal Stewardship
Fiscal stewardship
Techniques
Budget
Approval
Targets
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Toolkit
What does budgeting ensure?
A. Efficient Cashflow Management
Why do I need to budget
B. Align Resources with Strategic priorities
C. Prioritize projects based on strategic priorities
D. All of the Above
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Toolkit
Budgeting serves as a pivotal plan guiding our fiscal decisions and provides agility to adapt to changing circumstances.
Let's go!
Let's Go!
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Toolkit
Here you go!
It will be added to your Toolkit. You will need it to be a successful fiscal steward.
GOOD!
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Toolkit
Missions
Missions
Fiscal stewardship
Contextualize your topic with a subtitle
Techniques
Budget
Approval
Targets
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Toolkit
Our budget can be treated as..
A. Just a recomendation
B. A wish list of what we want to fund
But how do I decide what to budget for
C. Our financial strategy
D. A fixed document that never changes once it's approved
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Toolkit
Prioritizing costs that improve team member retention and uphold SDZWA's values is also crucial.
Mid-level leaders play a crucial role in managing expenses effectively.
Let's go!
Let's Go!
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Toolkit
Great!
Will be added to your Toolkit You will need it to be a successful fiscal steward.
GREAT!
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Toolkit
Missions
Fiscal Stewardship
Techniques
Budget
Approval
Targets
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Toolkit
Techniques to effective budgeting includes...
A. Participate in Forecasting
B. Invest in team member training
C. Manage travel and expenses responsibly
D. Continuously monitor and report financial performance
How do I create a budget
E. All of the above
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Toolkit
Keep it up!
It will be added to your backpack. You will need it to be a successful fiscal steward.
GOOD!
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Toolkit
Missions
Fiscal Stewardship
Techniques
Budget
Approval
Targets
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Backpack
When submitting a budget for approval, we should...
A. Ensure alignment with targets
B. Identify areas for spend reduction
C. Justify new needs
Great! Now I know what to budget for, and how to get there. What do I need to do to ensure my budget is approved
D. Understand hisorical spending
E. All of the above
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Backpack
Click on each question to learn more.
1. Does my budget align with SDZWA’s strategic priorities?
2. Have I justified new expenses with clear data?
3. Have I identified potential cost-saving areas?
4. Have I accounted for all potential revenue streams?
Submitting a budget isn’t just about listing numbers—it’s about demonstrating strategic alignment, financial responsibility, and long-term sustainability.
5. If I need to reduce expenses, how will I ensure operations remain efficient?
Next
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Toolkit
A budget submission isn’t just a financial document—it’s a roadmap for how we allocate resources to achieve SDZWA’s mission. By ensuring alignment, justification, and financial sustainability, we contribute to responsible fiscal stewardship and long-term impact.
Let's go!
Let's Go!
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Toolkit
There you go
It will be added to your Toolkit. You will need it to be a successful fiscal steward.
GOOD!
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Toolkit
Missions Completed
Fiscal Stewardship
Techniques
Budget
Approval
Target
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Context
Imagine you are a department leader at SDZWA preparing your budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Leadership has asked for a 5% reduction in overall expenses, but you must still ensure that your team operates efficiently and continues to support SDZWA’s mission objectives.
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Reducing costs in the department
I like that approach. Let’s put together a list of potential reductions and bring it to the team for feedback. The goal is to make smart adjustments that allow us to meet budget requirements without compromising our mission.
We’ve been asked to reduce our budget by 5%, and I want to be strategic about where we make adjustments. I’d like your input on ways we can cut costs while ensuring our team continues to operate effectively.
That makes sense. If we focus on efficiencies rather than broad cuts, we can meet the target while still operating effectively.
I understand the need for budget reductions, and I appreciate you involving me. Maybe we can start by reviewing discretionary spending, such as travel or non-essential purchases, to see where we can scale back.
That’s a great idea. I also want to look at renegotiating vendor contracts and evaluating underused services to find cost efficiencies. What other areas do you think we should explore?
Exactly. Let’s refine these ideas and make sure any reductions align with our priorities. Thanks for your input—I’ll follow up once we finalize our plan
We could assess recurring expenses, identify process improvements, and explore more cost-effective alternatives for training or operational needs.
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quiz
Budget Planning Techniques
press start
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game over
QUIZ COMPLETED!
Great job! Let's explore some additional cost control techniques.
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Quick Win Cost Control Techniques
Visit each technique below to learn more.
Monitor and Reduce Overtime
Shift to Digital or Virtual Options
Review Recurring Expenses
Pause Non-Urgent Travel
Use Internal Resources First
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Introduction to Fiscal Stewardship recap
Mission, Money, and Impact
Mastering Budgets
Understanding Nonprofits
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even the greatest explorers faced unexpected challenges
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In this section, we explored what makes nonprofit governance unique—and how the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s Board of Trustees plays a vital role in upholding our mission.
As a nonprofit organization, our primary purpose isn’t to generate profits for shareholders, but to advance global conservation. That means every dollar earned or donated is reinvested to protect wildlife, support our programs, and build long-term sustainability.
We examined the structure and responsibilities of SDZWA’s Board of Trustees, including key roles like Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Secretary, and General Board Members. These individuals provide strategic direction, ensure legal and ethical compliance, and oversee financial performance with the mission at the center of every decision.
We also compared the governance and financial models of nonprofit vs. for-profit organizations. While for-profits exist to return value to shareholders, nonprofits like SDZWA are accountable to donors, communities, and conservation partners. That accountability makes fiscal stewardship not just important—but essential. When we understand our nonprofit structure, we’re better equipped to lead, make informed decisions, and contribute meaningfully to our mission of saving species worldwide.
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A strong budget ensures that financial resources support conservation leadership, world-class experiences, financial sustainability, and our role as an employer of choice. Each expense should connect back to these priorities.
By innovating, forming partnerships, and embracing new media, we ensure that every visit to our facilities exceeds expectations.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Educational Programs
Media Impact
Guest Awareness
Title
Write a brief description here
World Class Experience
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Budgeting Techniques
Techniques include actively participating in budgeting and forecasting, conducting cost analysis, and optimizing processes.
Other techniques include leveraging technology, promoting energy conservation, investing in team member training, managing travel and expenses responsibly, and continuously monitoring and reporting financial performance.
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Beyond expenses, consider how your department generates or influences revenue. Are there opportunities to enhance donor engagement, grants, partnerships, or service-based income? Ensuring a diversified revenue approach helps maintain financial resilience.
Importance of Budgeting
Budgeting ensures efficient cash flow management, resource availability alignment with organizational strategic priorities, and prioritization of projects based on those strategic priorities. Answer the question on the next page to move forward.
For-profit organizations operate to generate profits for stakeholders, primarily through customer sales, which supports their operations and workforce. Nonprofits reinvest any surplus revenue to advance their mission. Revenue sources for nonprofits are diverse, including donors, grants, and revenue generated from the sale of services and goods. These funds support both paid staff and strategic priorities, ensuring long-term sustainability. Fiscal stewardship is critical to fulfilling our mission. Our nonprofit status ensures that any surplus is reinvested into programs, services, and initiatives rather than distributed to shareholders. Click on the right arrow at the top left of the screen to move forward.
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Don't be discouraged, the adventure is not over yet! Take a moment to rest and try again. Remember every mistake is a learning opportunity that will bring you closer to victory. Cheer up, brave adventurer!
Don't give up!
even the greatest explorers faced unexpected challenges
Imagine you are a department leader at SDZWA preparing your budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Leadership has asked for a 5% reduction in overall expenses, but you must still ensure that your team operates efficiently and continues to support SDZWA’s mission objectives.
Does this conversation sound familiar? Are you working with your team—or being asked by leadership—to help minimize budget reductions in a way that protects mission-aligned functions? Let’s listen to a conversation that models a collaborative approach to budget planning.
Click on the right arrow in the top left of the screen to move forward.
Welcome to this pre-requisite for introduction to fiscal stewardship. This course has been designed to prepare you for success in the longer face-to-face training. Throughout this course you will gain a comprehensive introduction to fiscal management and finance principles. Make sure you have something to take notes with. Throughout the course you will also be asked to complete knowledge checks. This is a great opportunity to ensure you have comprehended the information communicated. Good luck on your journey towards better fiscal stewardship. Click start to move forward.
To secure our future, we must grow financially while maintaining efficiency and sustainability.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Cash Flow
Debt Reduction
Performance and Financial Health
Title
Endowment Growth
Write a brief description here
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Leader: I like that approach. Let’s put together a list of potential reductions and bring it to the team for feedback. The goal is to make smart adjustments that allow us to meet budget requirements without compromising our mission. You: That makes sense. If we focus on efficiencies rather than broad cuts, we can meet the target while still operating effectively. Leader: Exactly. Let’s refine these ideas and make sure any reductions align with our priorities. Thanks for your input-I’ll follow up once we finalize our plan. Narrator: Both groups collaborated effectively, incorporated feedback, and refined their approach to identify the strongest budget strategy. Now, let’s take a moment to check your understanding of key budgeting concepts. Click on the right arrow in the top left of the screen to move forward.
Leader: We’ve been asked to reduce our budget by 5%, and I want to be strategic about where we make adjustments. I’d like your input on ways we can cut costs while ensuring our team continues to operate effectively. You: I understand the need for budget reductions, and I appreciate you involving me. Maybe we can start by reviewing discretionary spending, such as travel or non-essential purchases, to see where we can scale back. Leader: That’s a great idea. I also want to look at renegotiating vendor contracts and evaluating underused services to find cost efficiencies. What other areas do you think we should explore? You: We could assess recurring expenses, identify process improvements, and explore more cost-effective alternatives for training or operational needs.
General Members
General Board Members, while not holding specific roles, offer valuable input and support decision-making processes, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the board in guiding the organization's mission and strategic direction.
In this section, we explored how the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s mission and financial strategy work hand-in-hand to drive conservation success.
At the core of our work is a commitment to saving species worldwide. Every decision—from how we allocate resources to how we budget—supports that mission. As a nonprofit, our two “front doors”—the Zoo and Safari Park—are not just guest destinations; they are gateways to global conservation impact.
We introduced key financial concepts like budgeting, Return on Investment (ROI), cash flow, and resource allocation—and showed how these principles guide responsible decision-making.
Fiscal stewardship isn’t just about cost control—it’s about ensuring every dollar spent maximizes impact for wildlife and ecosystems.
We also looked at how SDZWA’s four strategic priorities—Conservation Leadership, World-Class Experience, Performance & Financial Health, and Employer of Choice—are grounded in both mission and financial sustainability.
When we lead with both purpose and financial accountability, we ensure our mission thrives today—and for generations to come.
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Budget Approval
When submitting a budget for approval, we should ensure alignment with targets, identify areas for spend reduction if necessary, justify new needs, and understand historical spending.
We should also assess growth in needs, ensure alignment with SDZWA's strategic priorities, and comprehensively identify all revenues and expenses.
Today, we will explore the governance structures that guide organizations and the key differences between nonprofit and for-profit businesses. For-profit entities utilize a Board of Directors to guide their strategic decisions. The board of directors is responsible for guiding the company's strategic decisions, monitoring its performance, and representing the interests of shareholders. Directors are usually elected by the shareholders and have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interest of the company. They often possess diverse backgrounds and expertise relevant to the industry in which the company operates. In contrast, The Board of Trustees oversees the mission, purpose, and overall strategic direction of non profit organizations such as SDZWA.
As stewards of our nonprofit mission, they act as fiduciaries, ensuring that the organization operates in line with its legal and ethical obligations. Trustees are often appointed or elected and may include individuals with specific expertise or affiliations relevant to the organization's mission. Our Board of Trustees includes the Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Secretary, and General Board Members. Click on the right arrow in the top left of the screen to move forward.
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even the greatest explorers faced unexpected challenges
Budget reductions should be thoughtful and strategic. Instead of across-the-board cuts, consider:
• Which expenses are essential to maintaining operational effectiveness?
• How can efficiencies be improved without sacrificing quality?
• What process improvements, cross-departmental collaborations, or phased reductions could help sustain operations?
Click next to move forward.
Welcome to this section on understanding nonprofits. We have three main objectives to guide our discussion.
By the end of this section, you will be able to identify the governance roles of SDZWA’s Board of Trustees. This includes understanding the specific roles of the Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Secretary, and General Board Members, and recognizing how these roles contribute to effective governance and strategic direction.
You will also be able to differentiate between nonprofit and for-profit organizations. We'll compare their primary objectives and revenue sources, and understand the distinct responsibilities of the Board of Trustees in nonprofits versus the Board of Directors in for-profits.
Lastly, you will understand the importance of fiscal stewardship in a nonprofit context. This includes recognizing the significance of reinvesting surpluses to advance the mission and appreciating the role of fiscal stewardship in ensuring the organization's sustainability and adherence to legal and ethical objectives. These objectives will guide our discussion and ensure a comprehensive understanding of nonprofit governance and its unique challenges. Thank you for your commitment to our cause and dedication to upholding our values. Let's get started!
Click on the right arrow at the top left of the screen to move forward.
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Don't give up!
even the greatest explorers faced unexpected challenges
We also explored best practices in budget development, including: • Considering performance trends and leadership targets
• Applying zero-based budgeting to critically assess each expense
• Ensuring alignment with SDZWA’s values and strategic pillars
• Using historical spending data and justifying new requests with impact metrics
Beyond planning, we focused on cost control techniques leaders can apply in real time—like reducing non-essential spending, optimizing energy use, and monitoring overtime. These actions, while small individually, collectively safeguard mission-critical programs and promote operational efficiency.
In this section, we explored the essential role budgeting and cost control play in driving SDZWA’s mission forward. As fiscal stewards, leaders across all levels must make thoughtful, strategic financial decisions that protect resources and sustain long-term impact.
Budgeting is more than a financial task—it’s a strategic roadmap. It helps ensure resources are aligned to our organizational priorities, enables us to adapt to changing circumstances, and guides how we prioritize projects to maximize conservation outcomes.
You did it!
Mastering budgeting and cost control is integral to our role as fiscal stewards at SDZWA. By following best practices, implementing cost control techniques, and submitting budgets strategically, we contribute to the financial health and sustainability of our organization.
Ultimately, this enables us to fulfill our mission and purpose effectively. Thank you for your dedication to excellence in fiscal management.
Now, let’s apply these principles! Up next, we’ll walk through a scenario-based budgeting exercise to reinforce these concepts. You will complete a more in-depth budgeting activity as part of the face-to-face training on Fiscal Stewardship. Click on the right arrow in the top left corner to move forward.
If you’re requesting new funding, be prepared to explain why it’s necessary. What’s the impact? Does it fill an operational gap, enhance efficiency, or drive measurable results? Data-driven decision-making strengthens your case.
Vice Chair
The Vice Chair assists in agenda development and provides support as needed.
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Monitor Performance; Strategic Decisions; Represent Shareholders
Mission; Purpose; Strategic Direction
The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is committed to saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature. Click on the arrow in the top left corner of the screen to move forward.
Treasurer
The Treasurer plays a critical role in overseeing financial operations, ensuring that board members are well-informed fiscal stewards of the organization.
Solution
The final surplus that remains after all expenses, taxes, and financial obligations, helping sustain SDZWA’s mission and initiatives.
This is a paragraph ready to hold creativity, experiences, and great stories.
The total cost of resources used to provide SDZWA’s programs and services, such as animal care supplies, food, and materials for education and conservation activities.
This is a paragraph ready to contain creativity, experiences, and cool stories.
What remains after subtracting the direct costs of caring for wildlife, maintaining habitats, and providing visitor services.
The balance after accounting for day-to-day operating costs like staff wages, utilities, and conservation program expenses.
This is a paragraph ready to contain creativity, experiences, and cool stories.
The total funds SDZWA earns from ticket sales, memberships, donations, grants, and other programs.
Chair
The Chair leads the board, ensuring adherence to governance practices while presiding over meetings.
We're delving into the heart of our mission and strategic priorities at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, focusing on the crucial aspect of fiscal stewardship. We are not just caretakers of wildlife, but also custodians of resources entrusted to us by our donors, partners, and supporters. Let's explore how being good fiscal stewards is integral to advancing our cause and why it matters to all stakeholders.
At the core of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance lies a commitment to conservation. We are more than just an organization; we are an international, nonprofit conservation powerhouse with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Our purpose? Integrating wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.
Our reason for being is saving species worldwide, and every action we take, every investment we make, is geared towards this singular goal. How will we do this? By uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature.
Click on each section to learn more about our strategic priorities. Once that is complete, click on the right arrow in the upper left of the screen to continue.
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Secretary
The Secretary manages meeting logistics and documentation, ensuring that records are accurately maintained.
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We ensure that every effort contributes to a unified One Health strategy.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
ROI
Program Alignment
Title
Conservation Leadership
Write a brief description here
Philanthropy toward conservation
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Our team is our greatest asset.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Retention Rates
DEI Initiatives
Title
Career Growth Opportunities
Write a brief description here
Employer of Choice
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Welcome to our section on mastering budgeting and cost control at SDZWA. By the end of this section, you will be able to achieve three key objectives.
First, you will understand the importance of budgeting and cost control. Budgeting is a roadmap projecting future financial performance and is essential for efficient cash flow management. It ensures resources are aligned with our organizational strategic priorities and helps us adapt to changing circumstances.
Second, you will learn to apply best practices in budget development. This includes considering leadership targets, current performance, and any expected changes. You will also embrace zero-based budgeting to critically evaluate resource allocation and ensure the budget aligns with our organizational values and strategic priorities.
Third, you will be able to implement effective cost control techniques. This involves leveraging technology, promoting energy conservation, investing in team member training, and managing travel and expenses responsibly. Additionally, you will continuously monitor and report financial performance, ensuring budget submissions align with targets and strategic priorities.
These objectives will guide our discussion and ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of budgeting and cost control process. Thank you for your dedication to excellence in fiscal management. Let's get started!
Click on the right arrow at the top left of the screen to move forward.
To help you on your journey, this training has been broken down into three major sections. Mission, Money, and Impact, Understanding Nonprofits, and Mastering Budgeting and Cost Controls. Each section is designed to help you better understand the role you play in being good fiscal stewards of SDZWA resources. Start by clicking on Mission, Money, and Impact. When you are done you will be brought back to this slide to click on the next objective until all three objectives have been completed. After each section you will be asked to complete quiz questions to attest to your understanding of the material presented. Good luck and please let your L&D department know if you have any questions.
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Important Financial Targets
When developing budgets, it's important to consider targets set by leadership, current performance, and any expected changes. We should also embrace zero-based budgeting to critically evaluate resource allocation.
Welcome to Mission, Money, and Impact!
In this section, we’ll explore how our mission, financial strategies, and conservation impact are interconnected.
At SDZWA, our mission is clear:
To save species worldwide.
This mission influences everything we do—from daily operations to long-term strategic planning.
• We’ll examine how our conservation efforts are guided by this mission.
• We’ll explore financial concepts such as budgeting, resource allocation, Return on Investment (ROI), and cash flow.
• Finally, we’ll discuss the real-world impact of our financial strategies and how every dollar spent contributes to conservation success.
By the end of this section, you’ll see how fiscal stewardship plays a critical role in advancing our mission in a responsible and impactful way. Click on the right arrow in the top left of the screen to move forward.
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Don't be discouraged, the adventure is not over yet! Take a moment to rest and try again. Remember every mistake is a learning opportunity that will bring you closer to victory. Cheer up, brave adventurer!
Don't give up!
even the greatest explorers faced unexpected challenges
Ouch!
Don't be discouraged, the adventure is not over yet! Take a moment to rest and try again. Remember every mistake is a learning opportunity that will bring you closer to victory. Cheer up, brave adventurer!
Don't give up!
even the greatest explorers faced unexpected challenges
Before we move into the key terms activity, let’s first take a moment to connect what we do as leaders to the financial health of the Alliance. Understanding how key financial concepts play out in our work helps bring these terms to life.
Here’s a simple example to set the stage:
Imagine our Total Revenue for the year is $150 million—this includes ticket sales, memberships, donations, food, retail, and more.
Next, we subtract our Cost of Goods Sold—things like wildlife food, merchandise, and other direct expenses—which might total $50 million.
That leaves us with a Gross Profit of $100 million.
From there, we deduct our Operating Expenses—such as wages, conservation efforts, utilities, facility maintenance, and technology.
Let’s say that adds up to $75 million.
That brings us to our Operating Profit—also known as EBIT—of $25 million. This tells us how much we’ve earned from core operations before accounting for interest and taxes.
Finally, after subtracting interest and taxes—let’s estimate $5 million—we arrive at our Net Profit of $20 million.
This final number gives us insight into our overall financial health—and how much we can reinvest into our mission of saving species worldwide.
As leaders, every budget decision we make—whether it’s planning projects, staffing teams, or managing spending—has a direct impact on this financial picture. Fiscal stewardship isn’t just about numbers—it’s about sustaining the impact of our work.
Now that you’ve seen how these concepts come together, click on the right arrow at the top left of the screen to match the financial terms with their definitions.
Effective budgeting isn’t just about spending—it’s also about optimizing resources. Are there outdated processes or inefficiencies that could be improved? Could vendor negotiations or technology solutions reduce costs?
Introduction to Fiscal Stewardship
Dustin Lacasse
Created on October 21, 2025
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Introduction to Fiscal Stewardship
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The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is committed to saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature.
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Learning Objectives
1. Mission, Money, and Impact
2. Understanding Nonprofits
3. Mastering Budgets and Cost Control
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Mission, Money, and Impact
In this section, we’ll explore how our mission, financial strategies, and conservation impact are interconnected.
Real World Impact
Conservation Efforts
Fiscal stewardship plays a critical role in advancing our mission in a responsible and impactful way.
Key Financial Concepts
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Strategic Priorities
Mission, Money, and Impact
Conservation Leadership
Employer of Choice
Performance and Financial Health
World Class Experience
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Complete the sentence
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Match the Strategic Priority with the metric that is used to measuer its success.
Match the Priorities
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Terms in action
Minus Wages, Conservation Efforts, & Administrative: ($75 Million)
Minus Cost of Goods ($50 Million)
Total Revenue
$150 Million
Minus Interest and Taxes: ($5 Million)
$25 Million
Operating Profit
Net Profit
$20 Million
$100 Million
Gross Profit
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Match the term to the definition
Link each term to its corresponding defintion by dragging the pointer.
Represents how profitable your organization is. Revenue after deducting all expenses, COGS, interest, and taxes.
Represents how profitable your operations are. Revenue after deducting all expenses and COGS.
Represents how profitable our ticketing sales, products or services are. Revenue after deducting all expenses and COGS.
Money earned by the organization from all sources before any expenses are deducted.
Direct costs required to operate SDZWA, including wildlife food, merchandise, etc.
Cost of Goods (COG)
Total Revenue
Gross Profit
Operating Profit
Net Profit
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Learning Objectives
1. Mission, Money, and Impact
2. Understanding Nonprofits
3. Mastering Budgets and Cost Control
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Understanding Nonprofits
Differentiate between Nonprofit and For Profit Organizations
Fiscal Stewardship in a Nonprofit
Identify Governence Roles
Understanding Non-profits
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SDZWA
For Profit
Governance Roles
For Profit
Guides strategic decisions in for-profit entities.
Guides strategic decisions in for-profit entities.
Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Responsible for guiding the company's strategic decisions, monitoring its performance, and representing the interests of shareholders.
Responsible for guiding the company's strategic decisions, monitoring its performance, and representing the interests of shareholders.
Oversees our mission purpose, and overall strategic direction.
Board of Trustees
Trustees are often appointed or elected and may include individuals with specific expertise or affiliations relevant to the organization's mission.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Board of Trustees comprises key roles essential for effective governance.
SDZWA Board
Our Board of Trustees includes the Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Secretary, and General Board Members.
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Who Makes up the Board of Trustees?
Click on each position below to learn more about their responisbilities.
General Members
Vice Chair
Chair
Treasurer
Secretary
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For Profits vs Nonprofits
Supports
Revenue
Profits
Operations and Workforce
Customer sales
Generate profits for stakeholders
For Profit
Donors, grants, and revenue from sales and services
Reinvest surplus revenue
Nonprofit
Paid staff and strategic priorities
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Drag each topic to the Board that is responisbile for it.
Represent Shareholders
Monitor Performance
Strategic Decisions
Strategic Direction
Mission
Purpose
Board of Directors
Board of Trustees
Match the Board
Solution
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Learning Objectives
1. Mission, Money, and Impact
2. Understanding Nonprofits
3. Mastering Budgets and Cost Control
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Mastering Budgets
Budget Development Best Practices
Importance of Budgeting and Cost Control
Cost Control Techniques
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Toolkit
Mission: Fiscal Stewardship
Fiscal stewardship
Techniques
Budget
Approval
Targets
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Toolkit
What does budgeting ensure?
A. Efficient Cashflow Management
Why do I need to budget
B. Align Resources with Strategic priorities
C. Prioritize projects based on strategic priorities
D. All of the Above
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Toolkit
Budgeting serves as a pivotal plan guiding our fiscal decisions and provides agility to adapt to changing circumstances.
Let's go!
Let's Go!
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Toolkit
Here you go!
It will be added to your Toolkit. You will need it to be a successful fiscal steward.
GOOD!
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Toolkit
Missions
Missions
Fiscal stewardship
Contextualize your topic with a subtitle
Techniques
Budget
Approval
Targets
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Toolkit
Our budget can be treated as..
A. Just a recomendation
B. A wish list of what we want to fund
But how do I decide what to budget for
C. Our financial strategy
D. A fixed document that never changes once it's approved
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Toolkit
Prioritizing costs that improve team member retention and uphold SDZWA's values is also crucial. Mid-level leaders play a crucial role in managing expenses effectively.
Let's go!
Let's Go!
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Toolkit
Great!
Will be added to your Toolkit You will need it to be a successful fiscal steward.
GREAT!
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Toolkit
Missions
Fiscal Stewardship
Techniques
Budget
Approval
Targets
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Toolkit
Techniques to effective budgeting includes...
A. Participate in Forecasting
B. Invest in team member training
C. Manage travel and expenses responsibly
D. Continuously monitor and report financial performance
How do I create a budget
E. All of the above
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Toolkit
Keep it up!
It will be added to your backpack. You will need it to be a successful fiscal steward.
GOOD!
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Toolkit
Missions
Fiscal Stewardship
Techniques
Budget
Approval
Targets
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Backpack
When submitting a budget for approval, we should...
A. Ensure alignment with targets
B. Identify areas for spend reduction
C. Justify new needs
Great! Now I know what to budget for, and how to get there. What do I need to do to ensure my budget is approved
D. Understand hisorical spending
E. All of the above
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Backpack
Click on each question to learn more.
1. Does my budget align with SDZWA’s strategic priorities?
2. Have I justified new expenses with clear data?
3. Have I identified potential cost-saving areas?
4. Have I accounted for all potential revenue streams?
Submitting a budget isn’t just about listing numbers—it’s about demonstrating strategic alignment, financial responsibility, and long-term sustainability.
5. If I need to reduce expenses, how will I ensure operations remain efficient?
Next
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Toolkit
A budget submission isn’t just a financial document—it’s a roadmap for how we allocate resources to achieve SDZWA’s mission. By ensuring alignment, justification, and financial sustainability, we contribute to responsible fiscal stewardship and long-term impact.
Let's go!
Let's Go!
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Toolkit
There you go
It will be added to your Toolkit. You will need it to be a successful fiscal steward.
GOOD!
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Toolkit
Missions Completed
Fiscal Stewardship
Techniques
Budget
Approval
Target
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Context
Imagine you are a department leader at SDZWA preparing your budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Leadership has asked for a 5% reduction in overall expenses, but you must still ensure that your team operates efficiently and continues to support SDZWA’s mission objectives.
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Reducing costs in the department
I like that approach. Let’s put together a list of potential reductions and bring it to the team for feedback. The goal is to make smart adjustments that allow us to meet budget requirements without compromising our mission.
We’ve been asked to reduce our budget by 5%, and I want to be strategic about where we make adjustments. I’d like your input on ways we can cut costs while ensuring our team continues to operate effectively.
That makes sense. If we focus on efficiencies rather than broad cuts, we can meet the target while still operating effectively.
I understand the need for budget reductions, and I appreciate you involving me. Maybe we can start by reviewing discretionary spending, such as travel or non-essential purchases, to see where we can scale back.
That’s a great idea. I also want to look at renegotiating vendor contracts and evaluating underused services to find cost efficiencies. What other areas do you think we should explore?
Exactly. Let’s refine these ideas and make sure any reductions align with our priorities. Thanks for your input—I’ll follow up once we finalize our plan
We could assess recurring expenses, identify process improvements, and explore more cost-effective alternatives for training or operational needs.
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quiz
Budget Planning Techniques
press start
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game over
QUIZ COMPLETED!
Great job! Let's explore some additional cost control techniques.
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Quick Win Cost Control Techniques
Visit each technique below to learn more.
Monitor and Reduce Overtime
Shift to Digital or Virtual Options
Review Recurring Expenses
Pause Non-Urgent Travel
Use Internal Resources First
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Introduction to Fiscal Stewardship recap
Mission, Money, and Impact
Mastering Budgets
Understanding Nonprofits
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Don't give up!
even the greatest explorers faced unexpected challenges
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In this section, we explored what makes nonprofit governance unique—and how the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s Board of Trustees plays a vital role in upholding our mission. As a nonprofit organization, our primary purpose isn’t to generate profits for shareholders, but to advance global conservation. That means every dollar earned or donated is reinvested to protect wildlife, support our programs, and build long-term sustainability. We examined the structure and responsibilities of SDZWA’s Board of Trustees, including key roles like Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Secretary, and General Board Members. These individuals provide strategic direction, ensure legal and ethical compliance, and oversee financial performance with the mission at the center of every decision.
We also compared the governance and financial models of nonprofit vs. for-profit organizations. While for-profits exist to return value to shareholders, nonprofits like SDZWA are accountable to donors, communities, and conservation partners. That accountability makes fiscal stewardship not just important—but essential. When we understand our nonprofit structure, we’re better equipped to lead, make informed decisions, and contribute meaningfully to our mission of saving species worldwide.
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A strong budget ensures that financial resources support conservation leadership, world-class experiences, financial sustainability, and our role as an employer of choice. Each expense should connect back to these priorities.
By innovating, forming partnerships, and embracing new media, we ensure that every visit to our facilities exceeds expectations.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Educational Programs
Media Impact
Guest Awareness
Title
Write a brief description here
World Class Experience
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Budgeting Techniques
Techniques include actively participating in budgeting and forecasting, conducting cost analysis, and optimizing processes. Other techniques include leveraging technology, promoting energy conservation, investing in team member training, managing travel and expenses responsibly, and continuously monitoring and reporting financial performance.
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Beyond expenses, consider how your department generates or influences revenue. Are there opportunities to enhance donor engagement, grants, partnerships, or service-based income? Ensuring a diversified revenue approach helps maintain financial resilience.
Importance of Budgeting
Budgeting ensures efficient cash flow management, resource availability alignment with organizational strategic priorities, and prioritization of projects based on those strategic priorities. Answer the question on the next page to move forward.
For-profit organizations operate to generate profits for stakeholders, primarily through customer sales, which supports their operations and workforce. Nonprofits reinvest any surplus revenue to advance their mission. Revenue sources for nonprofits are diverse, including donors, grants, and revenue generated from the sale of services and goods. These funds support both paid staff and strategic priorities, ensuring long-term sustainability. Fiscal stewardship is critical to fulfilling our mission. Our nonprofit status ensures that any surplus is reinvested into programs, services, and initiatives rather than distributed to shareholders. Click on the right arrow at the top left of the screen to move forward.
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even the greatest explorers faced unexpected challenges
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Don't be discouraged, the adventure is not over yet! Take a moment to rest and try again. Remember every mistake is a learning opportunity that will bring you closer to victory. Cheer up, brave adventurer!
Don't give up!
even the greatest explorers faced unexpected challenges
Imagine you are a department leader at SDZWA preparing your budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Leadership has asked for a 5% reduction in overall expenses, but you must still ensure that your team operates efficiently and continues to support SDZWA’s mission objectives. Does this conversation sound familiar? Are you working with your team—or being asked by leadership—to help minimize budget reductions in a way that protects mission-aligned functions? Let’s listen to a conversation that models a collaborative approach to budget planning. Click on the right arrow in the top left of the screen to move forward.
Welcome to this pre-requisite for introduction to fiscal stewardship. This course has been designed to prepare you for success in the longer face-to-face training. Throughout this course you will gain a comprehensive introduction to fiscal management and finance principles. Make sure you have something to take notes with. Throughout the course you will also be asked to complete knowledge checks. This is a great opportunity to ensure you have comprehended the information communicated. Good luck on your journey towards better fiscal stewardship. Click start to move forward.
To secure our future, we must grow financially while maintaining efficiency and sustainability.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Cash Flow
Debt Reduction
Performance and Financial Health
Title
Endowment Growth
Write a brief description here
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Leader: I like that approach. Let’s put together a list of potential reductions and bring it to the team for feedback. The goal is to make smart adjustments that allow us to meet budget requirements without compromising our mission. You: That makes sense. If we focus on efficiencies rather than broad cuts, we can meet the target while still operating effectively. Leader: Exactly. Let’s refine these ideas and make sure any reductions align with our priorities. Thanks for your input-I’ll follow up once we finalize our plan. Narrator: Both groups collaborated effectively, incorporated feedback, and refined their approach to identify the strongest budget strategy. Now, let’s take a moment to check your understanding of key budgeting concepts. Click on the right arrow in the top left of the screen to move forward.
Leader: We’ve been asked to reduce our budget by 5%, and I want to be strategic about where we make adjustments. I’d like your input on ways we can cut costs while ensuring our team continues to operate effectively. You: I understand the need for budget reductions, and I appreciate you involving me. Maybe we can start by reviewing discretionary spending, such as travel or non-essential purchases, to see where we can scale back. Leader: That’s a great idea. I also want to look at renegotiating vendor contracts and evaluating underused services to find cost efficiencies. What other areas do you think we should explore? You: We could assess recurring expenses, identify process improvements, and explore more cost-effective alternatives for training or operational needs.
General Members
General Board Members, while not holding specific roles, offer valuable input and support decision-making processes, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the board in guiding the organization's mission and strategic direction.
In this section, we explored how the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s mission and financial strategy work hand-in-hand to drive conservation success. At the core of our work is a commitment to saving species worldwide. Every decision—from how we allocate resources to how we budget—supports that mission. As a nonprofit, our two “front doors”—the Zoo and Safari Park—are not just guest destinations; they are gateways to global conservation impact. We introduced key financial concepts like budgeting, Return on Investment (ROI), cash flow, and resource allocation—and showed how these principles guide responsible decision-making.
Fiscal stewardship isn’t just about cost control—it’s about ensuring every dollar spent maximizes impact for wildlife and ecosystems.
We also looked at how SDZWA’s four strategic priorities—Conservation Leadership, World-Class Experience, Performance & Financial Health, and Employer of Choice—are grounded in both mission and financial sustainability. When we lead with both purpose and financial accountability, we ensure our mission thrives today—and for generations to come.
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Budget Approval
When submitting a budget for approval, we should ensure alignment with targets, identify areas for spend reduction if necessary, justify new needs, and understand historical spending. We should also assess growth in needs, ensure alignment with SDZWA's strategic priorities, and comprehensively identify all revenues and expenses.
Today, we will explore the governance structures that guide organizations and the key differences between nonprofit and for-profit businesses. For-profit entities utilize a Board of Directors to guide their strategic decisions. The board of directors is responsible for guiding the company's strategic decisions, monitoring its performance, and representing the interests of shareholders. Directors are usually elected by the shareholders and have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interest of the company. They often possess diverse backgrounds and expertise relevant to the industry in which the company operates. In contrast, The Board of Trustees oversees the mission, purpose, and overall strategic direction of non profit organizations such as SDZWA.
As stewards of our nonprofit mission, they act as fiduciaries, ensuring that the organization operates in line with its legal and ethical obligations. Trustees are often appointed or elected and may include individuals with specific expertise or affiliations relevant to the organization's mission. Our Board of Trustees includes the Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Secretary, and General Board Members. Click on the right arrow in the top left of the screen to move forward.
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Don't be discouraged, the adventure is not over yet! Take a moment to rest and try again. Remember every mistake is a learning opportunity that will bring you closer to victory. Cheer up, brave adventurer!
Don't give up!
even the greatest explorers faced unexpected challenges
Budget reductions should be thoughtful and strategic. Instead of across-the-board cuts, consider: • Which expenses are essential to maintaining operational effectiveness? • How can efficiencies be improved without sacrificing quality? • What process improvements, cross-departmental collaborations, or phased reductions could help sustain operations? Click next to move forward.
Welcome to this section on understanding nonprofits. We have three main objectives to guide our discussion. By the end of this section, you will be able to identify the governance roles of SDZWA’s Board of Trustees. This includes understanding the specific roles of the Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Secretary, and General Board Members, and recognizing how these roles contribute to effective governance and strategic direction. You will also be able to differentiate between nonprofit and for-profit organizations. We'll compare their primary objectives and revenue sources, and understand the distinct responsibilities of the Board of Trustees in nonprofits versus the Board of Directors in for-profits.
Lastly, you will understand the importance of fiscal stewardship in a nonprofit context. This includes recognizing the significance of reinvesting surpluses to advance the mission and appreciating the role of fiscal stewardship in ensuring the organization's sustainability and adherence to legal and ethical objectives. These objectives will guide our discussion and ensure a comprehensive understanding of nonprofit governance and its unique challenges. Thank you for your commitment to our cause and dedication to upholding our values. Let's get started! Click on the right arrow at the top left of the screen to move forward.
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Don't be discouraged, the adventure is not over yet! Take a moment to rest and try again. Remember every mistake is a learning opportunity that will bring you closer to victory. Cheer up, brave adventurer!
Don't give up!
even the greatest explorers faced unexpected challenges
We also explored best practices in budget development, including: • Considering performance trends and leadership targets • Applying zero-based budgeting to critically assess each expense • Ensuring alignment with SDZWA’s values and strategic pillars • Using historical spending data and justifying new requests with impact metrics Beyond planning, we focused on cost control techniques leaders can apply in real time—like reducing non-essential spending, optimizing energy use, and monitoring overtime. These actions, while small individually, collectively safeguard mission-critical programs and promote operational efficiency.
In this section, we explored the essential role budgeting and cost control play in driving SDZWA’s mission forward. As fiscal stewards, leaders across all levels must make thoughtful, strategic financial decisions that protect resources and sustain long-term impact. Budgeting is more than a financial task—it’s a strategic roadmap. It helps ensure resources are aligned to our organizational priorities, enables us to adapt to changing circumstances, and guides how we prioritize projects to maximize conservation outcomes.
You did it! Mastering budgeting and cost control is integral to our role as fiscal stewards at SDZWA. By following best practices, implementing cost control techniques, and submitting budgets strategically, we contribute to the financial health and sustainability of our organization. Ultimately, this enables us to fulfill our mission and purpose effectively. Thank you for your dedication to excellence in fiscal management. Now, let’s apply these principles! Up next, we’ll walk through a scenario-based budgeting exercise to reinforce these concepts. You will complete a more in-depth budgeting activity as part of the face-to-face training on Fiscal Stewardship. Click on the right arrow in the top left corner to move forward.
If you’re requesting new funding, be prepared to explain why it’s necessary. What’s the impact? Does it fill an operational gap, enhance efficiency, or drive measurable results? Data-driven decision-making strengthens your case.
Vice Chair
The Vice Chair assists in agenda development and provides support as needed.
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Monitor Performance; Strategic Decisions; Represent Shareholders
Mission; Purpose; Strategic Direction
The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is committed to saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature. Click on the arrow in the top left corner of the screen to move forward.
Treasurer
The Treasurer plays a critical role in overseeing financial operations, ensuring that board members are well-informed fiscal stewards of the organization.
Solution
The final surplus that remains after all expenses, taxes, and financial obligations, helping sustain SDZWA’s mission and initiatives.
This is a paragraph ready to hold creativity, experiences, and great stories.
The total cost of resources used to provide SDZWA’s programs and services, such as animal care supplies, food, and materials for education and conservation activities.
This is a paragraph ready to contain creativity, experiences, and cool stories.
What remains after subtracting the direct costs of caring for wildlife, maintaining habitats, and providing visitor services.
The balance after accounting for day-to-day operating costs like staff wages, utilities, and conservation program expenses.
This is a paragraph ready to contain creativity, experiences, and cool stories.
The total funds SDZWA earns from ticket sales, memberships, donations, grants, and other programs.
Chair
The Chair leads the board, ensuring adherence to governance practices while presiding over meetings.
We're delving into the heart of our mission and strategic priorities at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, focusing on the crucial aspect of fiscal stewardship. We are not just caretakers of wildlife, but also custodians of resources entrusted to us by our donors, partners, and supporters. Let's explore how being good fiscal stewards is integral to advancing our cause and why it matters to all stakeholders. At the core of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance lies a commitment to conservation. We are more than just an organization; we are an international, nonprofit conservation powerhouse with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Our purpose? Integrating wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions. Our reason for being is saving species worldwide, and every action we take, every investment we make, is geared towards this singular goal. How will we do this? By uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature. Click on each section to learn more about our strategic priorities. Once that is complete, click on the right arrow in the upper left of the screen to continue.
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Don't be discouraged, the adventure is not over yet! Take a moment to rest and try again. Remember every mistake is a learning opportunity that will bring you closer to victory. Cheer up, brave adventurer!
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even the greatest explorers faced unexpected challenges
Secretary
The Secretary manages meeting logistics and documentation, ensuring that records are accurately maintained.
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even the greatest explorers faced unexpected challenges
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We ensure that every effort contributes to a unified One Health strategy.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
ROI
Program Alignment
Title
Conservation Leadership
Write a brief description here
Philanthropy toward conservation
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Our team is our greatest asset.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Retention Rates
DEI Initiatives
Title
Career Growth Opportunities
Write a brief description here
Employer of Choice
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Welcome to our section on mastering budgeting and cost control at SDZWA. By the end of this section, you will be able to achieve three key objectives. First, you will understand the importance of budgeting and cost control. Budgeting is a roadmap projecting future financial performance and is essential for efficient cash flow management. It ensures resources are aligned with our organizational strategic priorities and helps us adapt to changing circumstances. Second, you will learn to apply best practices in budget development. This includes considering leadership targets, current performance, and any expected changes. You will also embrace zero-based budgeting to critically evaluate resource allocation and ensure the budget aligns with our organizational values and strategic priorities.
Third, you will be able to implement effective cost control techniques. This involves leveraging technology, promoting energy conservation, investing in team member training, and managing travel and expenses responsibly. Additionally, you will continuously monitor and report financial performance, ensuring budget submissions align with targets and strategic priorities. These objectives will guide our discussion and ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of budgeting and cost control process. Thank you for your dedication to excellence in fiscal management. Let's get started! Click on the right arrow at the top left of the screen to move forward.
To help you on your journey, this training has been broken down into three major sections. Mission, Money, and Impact, Understanding Nonprofits, and Mastering Budgeting and Cost Controls. Each section is designed to help you better understand the role you play in being good fiscal stewards of SDZWA resources. Start by clicking on Mission, Money, and Impact. When you are done you will be brought back to this slide to click on the next objective until all three objectives have been completed. After each section you will be asked to complete quiz questions to attest to your understanding of the material presented. Good luck and please let your L&D department know if you have any questions.
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Important Financial Targets
When developing budgets, it's important to consider targets set by leadership, current performance, and any expected changes. We should also embrace zero-based budgeting to critically evaluate resource allocation.
Welcome to Mission, Money, and Impact! In this section, we’ll explore how our mission, financial strategies, and conservation impact are interconnected. At SDZWA, our mission is clear: To save species worldwide. This mission influences everything we do—from daily operations to long-term strategic planning. • We’ll examine how our conservation efforts are guided by this mission. • We’ll explore financial concepts such as budgeting, resource allocation, Return on Investment (ROI), and cash flow. • Finally, we’ll discuss the real-world impact of our financial strategies and how every dollar spent contributes to conservation success. By the end of this section, you’ll see how fiscal stewardship plays a critical role in advancing our mission in a responsible and impactful way. Click on the right arrow in the top left of the screen to move forward.
Ouch!
Don't be discouraged, the adventure is not over yet! Take a moment to rest and try again. Remember every mistake is a learning opportunity that will bring you closer to victory. Cheer up, brave adventurer!
Don't give up!
even the greatest explorers faced unexpected challenges
Ouch!
Don't be discouraged, the adventure is not over yet! Take a moment to rest and try again. Remember every mistake is a learning opportunity that will bring you closer to victory. Cheer up, brave adventurer!
Don't give up!
even the greatest explorers faced unexpected challenges
Before we move into the key terms activity, let’s first take a moment to connect what we do as leaders to the financial health of the Alliance. Understanding how key financial concepts play out in our work helps bring these terms to life. Here’s a simple example to set the stage: Imagine our Total Revenue for the year is $150 million—this includes ticket sales, memberships, donations, food, retail, and more. Next, we subtract our Cost of Goods Sold—things like wildlife food, merchandise, and other direct expenses—which might total $50 million. That leaves us with a Gross Profit of $100 million. From there, we deduct our Operating Expenses—such as wages, conservation efforts, utilities, facility maintenance, and technology.
Let’s say that adds up to $75 million. That brings us to our Operating Profit—also known as EBIT—of $25 million. This tells us how much we’ve earned from core operations before accounting for interest and taxes. Finally, after subtracting interest and taxes—let’s estimate $5 million—we arrive at our Net Profit of $20 million. This final number gives us insight into our overall financial health—and how much we can reinvest into our mission of saving species worldwide. As leaders, every budget decision we make—whether it’s planning projects, staffing teams, or managing spending—has a direct impact on this financial picture. Fiscal stewardship isn’t just about numbers—it’s about sustaining the impact of our work. Now that you’ve seen how these concepts come together, click on the right arrow at the top left of the screen to match the financial terms with their definitions.
Effective budgeting isn’t just about spending—it’s also about optimizing resources. Are there outdated processes or inefficiencies that could be improved? Could vendor negotiations or technology solutions reduce costs?