What financial models are out there?

There is enormous variety in how spiritual innovators sustain their work: Some build inside of religious denominations, others start nonprofits supported by donors or foundations, and  others launch social enterprises or for-profit businesses that generate income through products or services. Some find success with fee-for-service offerings, membership dues, or ticketed events, and others lean into creative approaches like pay-it-forward gift economies or cooperative ownership. Still others fund their spiritual innovation work through day jobs or support from a high-earning partner or family member. Each model offers its own possibilities and challenges, so learning about and choosing what fits best is an important part of shaping your vision.

Every country has its own legal and tax systems, which means it is vital to seek out local advice. But know that your financial model doesn’t have to stay the same forever. As your community grows and your needs evolve, your funding approach can too! Stay curious, open, and willing to experiment. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but with creativity and care, you can find a way to sustain your work and let it flourish.

To help you think through the right financial model for you, explore these questions.

Which examples from the field inspire me, and why? 

We have lifted up five examples below, of different models for spiritual innovation in the field today. Take a look and reflect: Which of these inspire me, and why? (And if none, why not?) What does this tell me about what kind of financial model I am drawn to pursue?

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Practicing the Way

All resources from Practicing the Way, a Christian formation program, are free because of a group of donors called The Circle. The Circle is a group of monthly givers who commit to ongoing support. In return, they get benefits like early access to new resources and live quarterly calls. This brings the donors into community with each other and keeps them connected to the work they are supporting.

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Vipassana Meditation 

Vipassana, an ancient Indian meditation technique that was popularized by S.N. Goenka, has become known for its free 10-day residential meditation courses, offered all over the world. The courses follow a pay-it-forward financial model: Every aspect of the experience (including food and accommodation) is offered free of charge thanks to donations by past participants who are inspired to give upon completing the course. This means there is a symbiotic relationship among past and future participants, even if they never meet.  

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Union Dallas

After some brainstorming conversations among a group of Methodist spiritual innovators, the North Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church launched Union as a laboratory and new church start in 2012. They run an independent coffee shop that sustains their ministry work, and they host arts events and donate to key social service initiatives in the neighborhood. Their goal is to be completely embedded in the community, which includes the local economy. 

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Insight Timer

Insight Timer, one of the most popular mediation apps in the world, is run by a for-profit, privately held company called Insight Network Inc. It is free to join and use, and offers a vast library of free guided meditations and classes. Backed by venture capital, it generates revenue through premium subscriptions, in-app purchases, and organizational partnerships. Insight Timer also facilitates an economic ecosystem, allowing users to donate to their favorite teachers and nonprofit content providers within the app.

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IKAR

IKAR in Los Angeles is structured as an independent spiritual community rather than a traditional synagogue, and sustains itself largely through member financial contributions. IKAR emphasizes that membership is a holy partnership focused on four core commitments—one of which is a meaningful financial contribution. Instead of a traditional dues model, IKAR uses a sliding-scale contribution system. Members are encouraged to give at a level that is both meaningful and sustainable for them. Members self-select what they can contribute, without needing to disclose financial hardship to leadership unless they want to. While making the point that sustaining the community requires shared responsibility, IKAR does not bar participation for those who can’t give at the “suggested” levels.

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Which legal structure is right for me?

Typically, your financial model will be directly tied to the legal structure of your organization. If you are determining which legal structure makes sense for you, take a look at the page on how to structure your organization. Consider which of these different legal structures will allow you to pursue the financial model you identified above. 

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Deeper Learning

• For an insightful read about the power of funding coming from your own constituency, rather than third-party funders or donors, check out Collecting Our Dues. 
• Want to make your community or offering radically accessible? Think about a sliding scale or gift economy model. Kazu Haga has written an insightful reflection on gift pricing and Djalòki Dessables has a practical example here. There is also a great case study from the New York Insight Meditation Center.