Applying an MBA to a Non-Profit Organization
The MBA may be traditionally associated with for-profit businesses of all different sizes. However, there are many ways that an MBA can apply to a non-profit organization, simply because a non-profit still needs to run effectively. A non-profit may not be a business per se, but non-profit organizations still have many components that fit well with the competencies of the MBA.
Leadership and Management
The non-profit organization typically has a leadership structure, and management principles still apply. There may be a common sense of "cause," but work flow still needs to be managed.
Budgeting and Finance
Even with a non-profit status, the organization still has a budget. In addition, fundraising must typically be done and people may need to write grants or proposals. A person with an MBA can help with all of these tasks.
Marketing and Promotions
A non-profit organization may not be producing a commercial product, but they still must engage in a selling process. In addition, marketing principles may in some situations be applied to a non-profit in the same way they are to a corporate business.
People, Policy and Law
The non-profit organization is made up of a people, and those people must follow a set of guidelines. In addition, a non-profit is still subject to state and federal regulations, as well as labor law. An MBA graduate who is versed in human resource procedures may be a great asset to a non-profit organization.
The person that works for a non-profit may be focused on the work that organization is doing, but ultimately that individual wants the non-profit to succeed. In some cases, pursuing an MBA can be a great asset for the organization, particularly long-term. If people do not have to time to step away from the organization in order to enroll in school, they may think about an online MBA, which will give them the scheduling flexibility to pursue a degree and still do the non-profit work that is required.
