Harvard in the News: Could Your Nonprofit Face the Same Risk?

Harvard is making headlines, and not for its academics. The university is now facing questions about whether it still qualifies as a nonprofit. Why? Because there’s growing concern it’s stepped outside the boundaries of its tax-exempt purpose.
If Harvard can land in hot water, your nonprofit isn’t immune.

What’s Happening at Harvard?

Right now, Harvard’s nonprofit status is under scrutiny. The issue? Allegations that it’s engaging in activities that may no longer be purely educational—things like political involvement, lobbying, and advocacy.
Here’s the problem: when a nonprofit strays from its original, IRS-approved mission, it risks everything.

Why This Should Matter to You

Most people think losing nonprofit status is rare. But it’s not. The IRS can and does revoke tax-exempt recognition when organizations go off course.
Let’s break it down. If your nonprofit:
…then you could be on the same path Harvard’s on. And the fallout can be devastating.

The Risks Are Bigger Than You Think

Losing your nonprofit status doesn’t just mean more paperwork. It means financial consequences that can shake your entire operation.
Here’s what’s at stake:
And if you have an endowment or investments? Think capital gains, dividends, interest—all taxable.

Could You Be at Risk?

It’s easy to drift off course without realizing it. Maybe your mission evolved. Maybe your board approved a new program that doesn’t clearly fit under your exempt category.
Ask yourself:
Even small nonprofits can end up in the IRS’s crosshairs. This isn’t just a “big institution” problem.

Don’t Wait for Trouble to Knock

Here’s what you can do right now:

We Help Nonprofits Stay Compliant—and Protected

If you’re feeling uneasy after hearing about Harvard, that’s a good instinct. This is a wake-up call for every nonprofit.
We work with organizations of all sizes to make sure they stay within IRS guidelines and avoid painful surprises.
Let’s have a conversation about how to protect your nonprofit’s future. Reach out to schedule a confidential consultation today.
Your mission matters. Let’s make sure you don’t lose the status that helps you carry it out.