What is a board-designated endowment fund?

A board-designated endowment fund is established by a not-for-profit (NFP) entity's governing board. This type of fund is typically created when the board decides to designate a portion of its net assets to function as an endowment, with the intention of supporting the organization over a long period. The board has the authority to create, modify, or revoke this designation, giving them control over the purpose and management of the fund.

The key characteristic of a board-designated endowment fund is that it does not come from donor stipulations. Instead, it reflects the board's intention to allocate resources for ongoing use and investment. By setting aside funds in this manner, the board aims to ensure financial stability while supporting the organization's mission over time. This is particularly important for NFPs that may rely on these funds for various future initiatives or to safeguard against financial uncertainties.

In contrast to this, other options involve sources of funding and limitations that do not pertain to a board-designated context.