Effective Date: 28 September 2024

Srividya Foundation is committed to maintaining the highest standards of financial integrity, accountability, and transparency in all aspects of our operations. As a non-profit organization, we recognize the trust placed in us by our donors, members, volunteers, and the public, and we are dedicated to using our resources efficiently to fulfill our mission. This policy outlines how Srividya Foundation manages, reports, and shares financial information with stakeholders.

1. Purpose
The purpose of this Financial Transparency Policy is to:

Ensure that Srividya Foundation operates with financial integrity, transparency, and accountability.
Provide clarity on how funds are used, managed, and reported.
Establish guidelines for sharing financial information with donors, members, stakeholders, and the public.

2. Scope
This policy applies to all financial activities, transactions, records, and reporting conducted by Srividya Foundation, including but not limited to donations, grants, expenses, investments, and other sources of revenue.

3. Financial Accountability
Srividya Foundation is committed to responsible financial stewardship and will:

Adhere to Financial Best Practices: Follow generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and applicable laws and regulations for non-profit financial management.
Maintain Accurate Records: Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records, including receipts, expenditures, invoices, bank statements, and investment documents.
Ensure Regular Audits: Conduct annual financial audits by an independent certified public accountant (CPA) to ensure compliance, accuracy, and transparency in financial reporting.

4. Use of Funds
Restricted and Unrestricted Funds: Srividya Foundation manages both restricted and unrestricted funds. Restricted funds are used exclusively for the specific purpose for which they were donated, while unrestricted funds may be used to support the general operations and activities of the organization.
Program Funding: The majority of donations and revenue received by Srividya Foundation will be allocated to programs, services, and activities that align with our mission and goals.
Administrative and Operational Expenses: A portion of the funds will be used for administrative, operational, and overhead expenses, which are essential to ensure the effective functioning of the organization.

5. Financial Reporting and Disclosure
Srividya Foundation is committed to transparency and will provide regular financial reports to stakeholders, including:

Annual Reports: An annual report will be published, providing a comprehensive overview of the organization’s financial activities, accomplishments, and impact during the year. This report will include details on revenue, expenses, program spending, and key achievements.
Audited Financial Statements: The audited financial statements will be made available to stakeholders and the public upon request. These statements will include a balance sheet, statement of activities, cash flow statement, and notes to the financial statements.
IRS Form 990: Srividya Foundation will file IRS Form 990 (or its equivalent, such as Form 990-EZ or 990-N) annually, as required by law. This form provides detailed financial information about the organization and is publicly accessible via the IRS website.

6. Access to Financial Information
Donor Access: Donors and supporters may request access to Srividya Foundation’s audited financial statements, IRS Form 990, or annual reports by contacting us at info@srividya.net. We will make reasonable efforts to provide this information promptly.
Public Access: Financial information, including our annual report and IRS Form 990, will be made available on our website (https://www.srividya.net) to ensure transparency with the public.

7. Fundraising and Donor Stewardship
Srividya Foundation is committed to ethical and transparent fundraising practices, including:

Clear Communication: Providing donors with clear information on how their donations will be used and the impact of their contributions.
Acknowledgment: Acknowledging donations promptly and providing receipts that meet IRS requirements for tax-deductible contributions.
Confidentiality: Respecting donor privacy and maintaining the confidentiality of personal and financial information in accordance with our privacy policy.

8. Conflict of Interest and Financial Decision-Making
Avoiding Conflicts: Board members, officers, and employees involved in financial decision-making will adhere to our Conflict of Interest Policy to prevent any conflicts that could compromise the organization’s financial integrity.
Independent Oversight: Srividya Foundation’s Board of Directors will provide oversight of financial management, including reviewing budgets, financial reports, and audit findings.

9. Investment Policy
Srividya Foundation may invest funds to generate additional income to support its mission and programs. Investments will be managed prudently, following our Investment Policy, which emphasizes:

Risk Management: Ensuring that investment decisions are made with an appropriate level of risk.
Ethical Considerations: Avoiding investments that conflict with the values and mission of Srividya Foundation.

10. Compliance and Legal Obligations
Srividya Foundation will comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing non-profit financial management, reporting, and fundraising, including but not limited to:

Internal Revenue Code: Compliance with IRS regulations regarding 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.
State Charitable Solicitation Laws: Registering with state authorities as required for fundraising activities.

11. Monitoring and Review
The Board of Directors will regularly review Srividya Foundation’s financial performance, policies, and procedures to ensure ongoing transparency, accountability, and effectiveness.
This Financial Transparency Policy will be reviewed annually and updated as needed to reflect changes in laws, regulations, or best practices.

12. Contact Information
For questions, requests, or concerns related to this Financial Transparency Policy or to access financial information, please contact:

Srividya Foundation
1376, West Lagoon Road, Pleasanton, CA 94566
Phone: +1 707-789-1017
Email: info@srividya.net
EIN: 99-1557390

Acknowledgment
By engaging with Srividya Foundation, donating, or participating in our programs, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to the principles outlined in this Financial Transparency Policy.