Each year, thousands of people set out to start a nonprofit organization. These individuals are undoubtedly passionate about their cause and truly want to make a difference in their communities. Unfortunately, many start off on the wrong foot because they fail to fully develop their idea through comprehensive planning. Most do not recognize that operating within the nonprofit sector requires a unique set of knowledge, skills, and abilities. To help you identify what area of your plan needs more attention, here are some common things to think about.
What equipment, supplies, and human resources will I need?
Create a realistic budget, and know where you will get funding
How do I make it legal?
• Obtain 501 status
• Make sure you are registered in each state you solicit funding in
• File your taxes to keep from being removed from Publication 78
• Make sure you are exempt from state taxes
Where will I find the following resources?
• Articles of Incorporation
• 501c3 tax exempt services
• State tax exemption & Charity Registrations
• Grant writing Services
• Fundraising Services
• Web development Services
• Bookkeeping and Accounting Services
What Financing will I need?
• Salary
• Rent/ Utilities
• Office Supplies
• Program Supplies
• Fundraising Expense
• Incidentals
What’s my Advantage?
• What skills and experience do I bring to the nonprofit business?
• What solution will you offer that other organizations do not?
• What is your Marketing Advantage?
What makes my organization unique?
• Choose methods of service delivery that are unique
• Do not duplicate the services of other organizations in your community
• Discover ways to collaborate with other nonprofits, offering unique partnership abilities
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1 comment:
Melanie,
Without a doubt operating a nonprofit is running a business, so those who start nonprofits that have backgrounds in the 'for profit' sector have a lot of experience to rely on to run the new organization. But, as you state, nonprofits are unique in the business world. The nonprofit requires knowledge that is only necessary to nonprofits: fundraising, building a strong and effective board, managing and retaining excellent volunteers, utilizing connections in the community to strengthen the organization and further the cause, and collaboration. If a new nonprofit's leadership does not learn the best practices and current modes to conduct these nonprofit sector-specfic skills - the operation will struggle, or worse, fail.
Great point!
Arlene Spencer
The Grant Plant
http://thegrantplant.blogspot.com
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