Glossary
Budget & Forecasting

Rolling Forecast

By: Alec Hollingsworth
Updated:  
June 16, 2025

DEFINITION:

A rolling forecast is a continuously updated financial projection that extends a set period into the future, adjusting regularly for actual results and new data.
A rolling forecast is a financial management tool used to continuously update projections for revenues, expenses, and other key metrics over a set future period, typically 12 months. Unlike static budgets, which are fixed for a fiscal year, rolling forecasts are regularly revised—usually monthly or quarterly—by adding a new period as the most recent period ends. This dynamic approach helps organizations respond to changes in their environment, make better decisions, and allocate resources more efficiently. For nonprofits, rolling forecasts offer improved visibility into funding, program costs, and cash flow, enhancing their ability to adapt to uncertainties and pursue their mission effectively.

Key Takeaways

  • Continuously updates financial projections
  • Helps organizations adapt to changing circumstances
  • Improves planning and resource allocation
  • Supports more accurate decision-making

Why It Matters

Rolling forecasts help nonprofits stay agile by continuously updating their financial outlook.

Real World Example

A nonprofit animal shelter creates a rolling forecast for its operating budget. Every month, as actual donation and expense data comes in, the forecast is updated to extend 12 months into the future. When a sudden grant is received or unplanned veterinary costs arise, the shelter’s financial projection reflects these changes. Leadership uses the updated rolling forecast to decide whether to expand services, hire staff, or invest in a new outreach program, ensuring financial stability and proactive planning regardless of fluctuations in funding or expenses.

How Aplos Helps

Aplos allows users to create, manage, and update budgets and forecasts. With Aplos, nonprofits can easily implement rolling forecasts, enabling them to monitor financial health, adjust plans in real time, and ensure ongoing alignment with organizational goals.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a rolling forecast?

A rolling forecast is a financial tool that regularly updates projections for future periods, allowing organizations to adapt their plans based on actual results and new information.

How does a rolling forecast differ from a static budget?

Unlike a static budget, which is fixed for a year, a rolling forecast continuously extends and revises projections, often monthly or quarterly.

Why should nonprofits use rolling forecasts?

Rolling forecasts help nonprofits respond quickly to financial changes, improve planning, and make better resource allocation decisions.

Can I create rolling forecasts in Aplos?

Yes, Aplos allows you to create, update, and manage rolling forecasts, making it easier to stay on top of your organization’s financial outlook.

How often should a rolling forecast be updated?

Most organizations update rolling forecasts monthly or quarterly, ensuring that projections always look forward over a consistent period.

Related Terms

Grant
Key Performance Indicator (KPI)
Break‑Even Analysis
Operating Budget
Management Letter Response
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