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How to Start a Nonprofit

construction plansStarting a nonprofit is time-consuming and takes resources, but the benefits of tax-exempt status and legal legitimacy are substantial. The following are two sites that you should become familiar with, along with two links with advice for beginning your nonprofit venture. The Legal Documentation tab, as well, provides links to helpful guides and examples for getting paperwork in order.

 

 

 

 

Non-profit or For-Profit? Basic Considerations [USA and Canada]

  • This short article explains the different types of nonprofit corporations, for-profit corporations, and the strengths and weaknesses of both. A good introduction to the differences between the two. By Carter McNamara.

    Source: Authenticity Consulting   |  Published: 2008

 

Comprehensive Guide to Starting a Nonprofit

  • This report is a part of the Organizational Effectiveness Series, and discusses research & planning, initial organization, the role of the board, sustainability, strategic planning, conducting meetings, and networking. A really great resource for nonprofit entrepreneur hopefuls.

    Source: National Minority Aids Council   |  Published: 2004

 

How to Form a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Corporation

  • From Nolo.com, a very easy-to-understand, concise guide to forming a 501(c)(3). Includes choosing a business name, bylaws, articles of incorporation, state and federal exemption documents, and several other key areas. The article is brief.

    Source: Nolo.com   |  Published: 2009

 

How to Start a Nonprofit Organization

  • 5-step process of starting a nonprofit, from National Council of Nonprofits. The first step is to examine possible myths one could hold about nonprofit ventures, and then weigh other options in light of the hard realities. If you get past that point the article discusses state and federal filings, and then finally the "heavy lifting": designing the structure of your future organization.

    Source: National Council of Nonprofits   |  Published: 2009

 

Hurwit & Associates State-by-State Filing Requirements Tool

  • The law firm Hurwit & Associates has a small, state-by-state tool for quickly finding your initial & annual filing requirements, and your state statues. Very handy.

    Source: Hurwit & Associates   |  Published: 2009

 

CMC Toolkit

  • This invaluable resource was developed as a "Best Practices" guide for Compassionate Ministry Centers. Topics covered include boards, homeless ministries, fundraising, accounting, staff development, and grants. Contributors include Tom Nees, Max Rodas, Oliver Phillips, Kelly Sweeney McShane, and Jerry Appleby. Edited by Dr. Fletcher Tink and Mindy Bowne Hancock.

    Source: NCM USA/Canada   |  Published: 2006

 

 

 

 

  • IRS website

    If you're looking for the tax requirements for your nonprofit, this page on the IRS website is a good place to start. Exemption, unrelated business income, employment taxes, filing requirements, etc.


    Nolo.com on Nonprofits

    Nolo.com has provided some free legal and management articles for nonprofits. They are intuitively displayed and clearly written. There are approximately 20 articles.