How can I start a non-profit organization?

Question

Also, are there any age requirements or any other essential info that should be known? Any help is greatly appreciated!

Answer 1

1. prepare a concept paper

2. assemble a group of individuals that will be the initial board of directors/ co-founders. Check with the Secretary of State's office in your state, there may be information on age and residency requirements.

3. find a lawyer to prepare articles of incorporation and by-laws, and to file these documents with the state. Also, apply for a tax id number for the organization.

4. With the assistance of a qualified lawyer, apply to the IRS for tax-exempt status (501c3 status).

5. now the fun begins, go forth and fund-raise..... good luck!!!

Answer 2

The first step is to check with your Secretary of State the procedure for creating a non profit organization. You will need to file Articles of Incorporation, among other things.



I have found a website that compiles various resources on starting a non profit. I especially like the Minnesota Council of NonProfits because the site gives information on governance, developing strategic alliances, fund raising and other ingredients of successfully running a non profit.



http://www.lib.msu.edu/harris23/grants/znpbib.htm



As for funding your non profit, I suggest you check out Foundation Center to help you gain ideas on how to properly establish your organization and get support from private foundations. They have the most extensive database of private donors, and they publish a magazine that can be very helpful to your new non profit.



http://fdncenter.org/getstarted/tutorials/establish/index.html



I was previously involved in the setup of a non profit, and we were able to get a pro-bono lawyer who set up everything for us, including getting the 501c3 tax status. Contact other non profits in your area and check if there are lawyers willing to work for free to get you started.



For detailed information on how to start a non profit, I suggest you read the following books:



- Starting and Running a Nonprofit Organization -- by Joan M. Hummel

- Starting and Running a Non-Profit Made Easy by Entrepreneur Press, David H. Bangs

- Starting & Building A Nonprofit: A Practical Guide by Peri Pakroo