The Bottom Line

The National LGBT Movement Report, published annually by MAP, examines revenue and expenses, fundraising and fundraising efficiency, and other indicators of financial health for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) social justice advocacy, issue, legal, research and public education organizations.

• 2012 National LGBT Movement ReportDownload
• 2011 National LGBT Movement ReportDownload
• 2010 National LGBT Movement ReportDownload

Abstract

The 2012 National LGBT Movement Report provides a comprehensive snapshot of the financial health of LGBT social justice advocacy organizations. The 40 organizations examined for the 2012 report collectively represent 69% of the budgets of all LGBT social justice advocacy organizations. Among the key findings in the 2012 report:

Revenue and Expenses. Following several years during which organizations’ revenue declined, leaner and more flexible LGBT social justice organizations are reaping the benefits of belt-tightening years and increased efficiency. LGBT movement experienced a 17% increase in revenue from 2010 to 2011. Participating organizations are projecting expense budget increases of 13% for 2011.

Fundraising and Fundraising Efficiency. The number of individual donors increased from 2010 to 2011 after several years of declines. Additionally, fundraising operations continue to be efficient, with only 12% of expenses spent on fundraising, and 80% going directly to programs and services—surpassing benchmarks of the American Institute of Philanthropy and Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance.

Other Indicators of Financial Health. Other indicators remain strong. Increases in revenue and decreases in expenses have allowed organizations to increase cash and investments. The average organization had nearly six months of working capital in 2011.

Staff and Boards. LGBT organizations’ paid staff is roughly representative of the broader U.S. population, with 34% of staff identifying as people of color and 49% identifying as women. Seven percent of staff identify as transgender.

2012 Participating Organizations