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Social Entrepreneur

Tutorial

Running a non-profit can provide a nice income while supporting a great cause.  But starting a non-profit business is a lot the same as starting any other business.  You must start out with a well-thought-out business plan, a knowledge of the competition, and a genuine passion for your product.

The internet has a wealth of information for starting and running your non-profit business.  Below are a few good resources, but be sure to find out specifics of starting a non-profit in your own location before taking steps.

Overview of steps to start a non-profit organization:

1. Determine the community need that is not being filled or is being under-filled that your organization can meet.

2. Draft a mission statement.

3. Develop a well-thought out business plan for funding, advertising, and delivering your services.

4. Establish a Board of Trustees.  Seek legal help, or consider including a non-profit lawyer on your Board of Trustees.  Get board sign-off on the articles of incorporation.

5. File in your state for incorporation, federal and state tax-exemption, and solicitation license.  Obatin bulk mailing permit from your local post office.

6. If hiring employees, get Federal Employer Number and determine unemployment requirements for tax withholding.

Since there are thousands of non-profit organizations in the United States, competition for funds and volunteers will be fierce.  Consider listing with these on-line volunteer matching sites to get volunteers who are looking for your opportunity.

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The National Council of Nonprofit Associations
The National Council of Nonprofit Associations is the network of state and regional nonprofit associations serving more than 20,000 member organizations. Although this site is geared towards non-profit administrators, it will help educate you about key issues relevant to smaller non-profit organizations.
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BridgeStar.org
An excellent site for executives looking to "cross the bridge" into the non-profit arena. Articles, advice, job boards and other resources.
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Non Profit Education Programs
Need to brush up on your skills.  Here is a list of over 300 Non-Profit Management Education programs.
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Association of Professional Fundraisers
Join your local chapter of Professional Fundraisers, or start one in your area.
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Volunteer Match
Just as the name applies, VolunteerMatch matches volunteers with opportunities locally, around the world, and online.
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Volunteer Match
A great place to find volunteers for your specific needs.
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Starting Your Non-Profit
Steps to starting a non-profit.  Lots of links and articles too.
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How to Start a Non-Profit
Large site with lots of information.  Though specifically for Connecticut, much will be applicable anywhere.  Be sure to check your local area for specifics regulations.
 

Next Steps

If you've found the right non-profit business for you, go to our Startup Hub for tips and resources.

For ideas on how to promote your new business, visit our Promotion Hub.
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