Funding

In this lesson

1. 0:00 Introduction to SAF framework for funding
2. 1:49 Evaluating suitability of funding options
3. 2:52 Assessing acceptability with stakeholders
4. 3:43 Feasibility evaluation and implementation
5. 4:30 Funding considerations for non-profit organisations

About this lesson

You'll discover how to match funding methods to your organisation's strategic goals, stakeholder expectations, and practical constraints, and explore how funding differs for not-for-profit organisations. This is essential knowledge for Strategic Business Leader (SBL) and other strategic papers where funding decisions directly impact business recommendations. The SAF framework breaks down funding evaluation into three clear dimensions. Suitability examines whether the funding aligns with strategic goals, provides sufficient capital, matches the organisation's risk appetite, and fits the required timing—whether short-term or long-term. Acceptability focuses on stakeholder confidence, investor trust, alignment with stakeholder interests, and compliance with legal and ethical standards. Feasibility assesses the practical realities: accessibility of the funding source, implementation complexity, associated costs like interest rates and fees, and resource requirements such as staff time or external expertise. The lesson also covers the distinct funding landscape for not-for-profit organisations, which operate under different principles. Rather than profit maximisation, NFPs prioritise financial sustainability, relying on donations, grants, membership fees, and fundraising events. They emphasise transparency in how funds are deployed, measure impact on beneficiaries, and often benefit from tax-exempt status—all of which shape their funding strategy fundamentally differently from commercial organisations. By mastering the SAF framework and understanding these nuances, you'll be able to construct credible, well-reasoned funding recommendations that demonstrate strategic thinking and stakeholder awareness—exactly what examiners expect in case study and written answer scenarios.

Duration: 7m