The Following was cut, copy, and pasted from Nonprofit Land:
This blog says it all… GO READ IT. Follow the links. I cut and pasted it below which means I am a thief but it is that good if you want to launch a 501c3.
The number of nonprofits has proliferated in recent years. Unfortunately, not everyone who starts a nonprofit has thought out his or her idea. Don’t make the mistake of just jumping into the nonprofit arena. Think hard before starting your nonprofit…act later.
1. Do Your Research
Having a passion for your cause is important, but remember that a nonprofit is essentially a business and you need to be realistic in starting one.
Is there a need for your organization? Or could you team up with another, existng nonprofit? Another nonprofit can even serve as your fiscal sponsorinstead of or until you can become registered. Are you sure that a nonprofit is the best business structure for your idea?
- What Is a Nonprofit Organization?
- How Does a Nonprofit Differ From a Business?
- What Are the Key Characteristics of a Nonprofit Corporation?
- Ask Yourself These Questions Before You Start a Nonprofit
- Before Starting a Nonprofit, Consider Other Business Structures
- Eight Alternatives to Starting a Nonprofit
- Common Nonprofit Startup Mistakes
2. Develop a Business Plan
A nonprofit is simply another version of a business. You need to have at least as much money coming in as going out in order to even survive, much less succeed in your mission. Many nonprofit start-ups are launched on a wing and a prayer rather than a well-thought-out plan.
3. Make Sure That Your Organization Will Actually Qualify as a Nonprofit
You might have a great idea but are you sure it will qualify as a charitable cause? There are many types of nonprofits…which one is yours? It may not be what you think.
4. Be Sure to Take Care of All the Legal Requirements
Nonprofits are heavily regulated, both by the states in which they reside and by the federal government. Regulation is needed to make sure that donors are protected from fraud, and that nonprofits continue to serve the public good. Just because you are “nonprofit” doesn’t mean that you can’t get into some serious trouble.
5. Keep Good Records
Good record keeping is a must, and nonprofits have some reporting requirements that are special to them. Start with good records and you are less likely to run into problems later.
6. Develop a Fundraising Plan
Fundraising is a sophisticated, complex, and competitive endeavor. But it is unavoidable for a nonprofit. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that all you need is a bake sale or a fancy dinner to raise the money you’ll need to properly fund your organization.
7. Build an Effective Board
It cannot be overstated how important your board is to your nonprofit’s success. It is legally responsible for keeping you on track with your mission, helps you to secure the funds you need to accomplish that mission, and provides much of the expertise that you will need. Find the right people, get them on board, and keep them interested.
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