Certified Nonprofit Accounting Professional (CNAP) Essentials

What is CNAP Essentials?

Certified Nonprofit Accounting Professional (CNAP) Essentials is a three-day training led by nationally recognized experts from BDO that equips nonprofit professionals with the knowledge, skills, and best practices needed for effective financial management.

Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of nonprofit accounting, from the basics of not-for-profit organizations and fund accounting to the preparation and interpretation of audited financial statements. Through interactive sessions and practical examples, attendees will leave prepared to strengthen financial oversight, ensure compliance, and enhance the fiscal health of their organizations. 

👉 [KEY PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT] *Qualified participants can also earn a CNAP designation, a nationally recognized credential for nonprofit leaders and professionals who oversee accounting, finance, and fiscal management functions. Click here to learn more. 

*Eligibility: There are no prerequisites to take the credentialing course; however, in order to receive the CNAP certification, participants must have a minimum of 18 months experience in a fiscal management capacity at a nonprofit organization. Participants without the requisite experience can still take the course and submit proof of their work experience once they have completed the requirement.

Who Should Apply?

Nonprofit financial managers, accounting professionals, or similarly situated staff with experience in fiscal management at a nonprofit organization. This includes: 

  • Executive Leadership (executive director, c-suite, president, founder, etc.)

  • Operations (compliance officers, auditors, risk management, etc.)

  • Nonprofit finance and accounting staff

  • Board Treasurers

  • Grant Managers

     

Applications will open in August 2026. 

Tuition
Please don’t let financial concerns prevent you from applying. 

We are deeply committed to making our learning and professional development programs accessible to all. Thanks to the generosity of our funding partners, any nonprofit professional who is accepted into our CNAP Essentials program can participate at no cost. 

That said, if you or your organization can contribute to the cost of participation, your support will help us extend this opportunity to even more local nonprofit leaders. Each seat is valued at $650. 

CNAP Essentials Curriculum Outline

  • The Basics of Not-for-Profit Organizations: Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) for Not-For-Profits

  • The Nature of Fund Accounting: Accrual Accounting, Understanding Audited Financial Statements

  • The Role of the Board and Related Committees: Establishment of Board Committees, The Finance/Audit Committee

  • Effective Fiscal Systems: Critical Functions Within an Organization, Accounting Functions, Financial Reporting

  • Budgeting for Not-for-Profit Organizations: Purposes of a Budget, The Budget Cycle, Cost Allocations, Contract Management

  • Internal Control Issues: Establishing Accounting and Financial Policies & Procedures: Basic Definitions, Segregation of Duties, Developing Policies and Procedures

  • Understanding the Function of the Independent CPA Firm: Audits, Reviews, Compilations

  • IRS Disclosure Requirements: The Basics of IRS Form 990/1023, the Basics of Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT) and Filing Forms 

Training Dates & Times

📅 Tuesday, September 29, 2026: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

📅 Wednesday September 30, 2026: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

📅 Thursday, October 1, 2026: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

📍In-person Location: TBA upon acceptance into the program

💰 Strong Finances. 🏆 Stronger Mission.

Interested in participating in CNAP Essentials? 

Join the interest list to receive updates and be notified when applications open in August.

Expressing your interest early will help us gauge demand and keep you informed about key dates and program details.

Questions? Dr. Alee Moore can help.

Nevada GrantLab encourages applications and participation from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability or any other protected characteristics.

Led by the Experts at BDO

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BDO is one of the nation's leading accounting and advisory firms, providing assurance, tax, and consulting services to organizations across a wide range of industries, including the nonprofit sector. With deep expertise in nonprofit financial management, governance, compliance, and strategy, BDO helps mission-driven organizations strengthen operations, manage resources effectively, and maximize their impact.
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Chris Garza, CPA

Senior Financial Manager, BDO
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About Nevada GrantLab

Nevada GrantLab (“GrantLab”) is a Las Vegas-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that partners with fellow local nonprofits to help them build capacity and unlock resources that help communities thrive. Our work is backed by a network of passionate experts who provide guidance and technical assistance, and is made possible by generous philanthropic support.