In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we sit down with Jessie Card, Executive Director of Youth Ottawa, to discuss how nonprofits can move beyond grant dependency and adopt a social enterprise mindset. Under Jessie’s leadership, Youth Ottawa transformed its funding model—growing from 0% earned revenue in 2018 to 18% of total revenue generated through paid programming with school boards. This shift has not only strengthened the organization’s sustainability but also reinforced its impact, proving that a financially resilient nonprofit can thrive by thinking like a business while staying mission-driven.
Jessie shares how his own experiences with learning challenges inspired him to empower youth through skills development, media literacy, and entrepreneurship. He discusses the crucial role of prevention—investing in young people early yields long-term benefits, with research showing every $1 spent on youth programs can save $5 to $7 in future social costs. Youth Ottawa’s innovative approach actively involves young people in shaping and delivering programming, ensuring they gain leadership experience and economic opportunities while driving community change. These efforts are essential for any nonprofit striving to become a financially resilient nonprofit in today’s changing funding landscape.
Beyond financial sustainability, Youth Ottawa has created flagship initiatives like the RBC 21 Under 21 Awards and the Mars Charity Golf Classic, which not only recognize and celebrate young changemakers but also serve as key revenue streams to fund impactful programs. Jessie’s insights challenge traditional nonprofit mindsets, emphasizing that organizations must embrace sales, marketing, and business acumen to survive and scale their missions. By diversifying funding sources and building strategic partnerships, nonprofits can position themselves as financially independent and financially resilient nonprofits capable of long-term impact.
This conversation is a must-listen for nonprofit leaders looking to innovate their funding models, maximize social impact, and turn financial challenges into opportunities. If you’re navigating similar struggles, this episode provides actionable insights on how to leverage partnerships, rethink revenue strategies, and build a financially resilient nonprofit that thrives beyond grants and donations.
Looking for more:
Jesse’s LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-card-98698532/
Youth Ottawa: https://www.youthottawa.ca/
Click below to listen to the episode now!
iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-unfiltered-non-profit-leaders-share-it-all/id1749147957
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3JNb1VTvPIncILczhZCgzQ
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/247b628f-f9df-42eb-84ef-ae1471ae24e3/the-unfiltered-non-profit-leaders-share-it-all
Audible: https://www.audible.ca/podcast/The-Unfiltered-Non-Profit-Leaders-Share-It-All/B0D5JP698Z
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8XdCN55E-U&list=PLQhuwFNRqsT2XQLkJQ07jNovwxBvlwppk
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At OTUS Financial Solutions, we specialize in general accounting and CFO services for nonprofits and associations. With over 18 years of experience, we provide tailored solutions that help your organization grow and stay sustainable. We offer everything from day-to-day bookkeeping to big-picture financial planning, all designed to meet the unique needs of nonprofits like yours.
If you want to learn more about how we can support your nonprofit’s financial journey, visit our website or book a no-obligation 20-minute consultation with us today. Let’s make your accounting easier and help you reach your goals.