ProgramsNYU Wagner Capstone: Finance (Fall 25' to Spring 26')ProjectsBuilding a Dynamic Forecasting and Financial Decision Support Tool ...

Project Title: Building a Dynamic Forecasting and Financial Decision Support Tool for Restore NYC

Restore NYC

Details
Project Title Building a Dynamic Forecasting and Financial Decision Support Tool for Restore NYC
Project Topics Data Management Reporting, Financial Planning & Analysis Strategic Planning
Skills & Expertise Accounting and Consulting Back-End Development Building Information Modeling Business Project Management Data Analytics Data Visualization Database Administration Financial Analysis & Modeling Financial Management/CFO
Project Synopsis: Challenge/Opportunity
Restore NYC is a mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to making freedom real for survivors of trafficking in the US. Our vision is a world free from trafficking. For every survivor, a life of hope, restoration and flourishing.  With a $5.3M annual revenue budget and a growing set of complex funding streams and programmatic services, Restore’s finance team currently manages financial budgeting and forecasting primarily through Excel, while operating their accounting and financial reporting through NetSuite.
Restore is seeking support from NYU Wagner students to design a dynamic, scenario-based financial forecasting tool and dashboard that leverages existing data sources and enhances visibility into key financial drivers. This project will also provide strategic recommendations to support internal financial planning, sustainability, and cost-efficiency, with careful attention to confidentiality and survivor protection. 
Project Synopsis: Activities/Actions Required
Action Items
  • Evaluate Restore’s current financial forecasting processes and tools (Excel + NetSuite).
  • Identify pain points in budget planning, revenue recognition (e.g. restricted vs unrestricted; accrual vs. cash), and cross functional cost allocation.
  • Develop a dynamic financial model that allows Restore to easily create and compare different budget scenarios.
  • Design a user-friendly forecasting  tool that highlights key financial inputs and assumptions, enabling leadership to explore various “what-if” scenarios.
  • Ensure the model can support complex payroll allocations and multi-stream funding environments.
  • Provide recommendations on integrating forecasting into ongoing fiscal planning and leadership decision-making.
  • Outline processes for maintaining confidentiality and protecting sensitive information.
Project Synopsis: Expected Results
Success for Restore would mean receiving a robust financial forecasting model that accurately reflects our multi-stream revenue environment, complex payroll allocations, and program-level expenses—paired with a user-friendly tool that empowers staff to explore budget scenarios and understand key financial drivers without needing advanced Excel skills. 
We are looking for a solution that enables our team to: 
  • Quickly model and compare different budget and funding scenarios
  • Adjust core assumptions (e.g., grant timing, staffing levels, etc.) and see the impact on cash flow and organizational sustainability
  • Clearly communicate financial outlooks and risks to leadership
  • Reduce manual effort and errors currently involved in Excel-based planning
Measurable outcomes would include:
  • A working forecasting tool with built-in logic and scenario capabilities
  • A documented set of core assumptions and guidance for updating the model
  • At least three scenario templates (e.g., base, conservative, growth)
  • Increased internal confidence and efficiency in mid-year reforecasting and multi-year planning
By the end of the project, Restore’s leadership and finance team should be able to use the model/tool to make more informed, timely decisions that support long-term sustainability and strategic alignment with our mission.

Project Timeline

Touchpoints & Assignments Date Type

Program Kickoff

 Sep 12 2025 Event

Teams

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