Should I start a nonprofit? First Things First

There is a lot more to starting a nonprofit than completing the paperwork. Before you submit your first application, you should consider:

• Clarify your purpose. What vision do you have for the community? What issues will you address? What problems will you solve? What challenges will you meet? What needs will you fill? What programs and services will you provide?

• Is forming a nonprofit the way to go? You may be able to accomplish your goals without starting a nonprofit organization. What do you want to do that requires forming a nonprofit? Do you want to get access to donations and grants? Can you access resources without starting a nonprofit? Might a for-profit setup work better? Can you accomplish your goals by volunteering with – or working for – an existing organization? Can you form a relationship with a fiscal sponsor that will allow you to raise funds and do the work?

• Survey the landscape and clarify your unique mission. What other organiza­tions share your vision? What are they doing? Could you partner with them? Is what you want to do with your nonprofit different? If not, should you really start a new nonprofit? If so, how is it different, specifically?

• Develop vision and mission statements. Articulate clearly the vision you have for the community and the unique work your organization intends to do to make that vision a reality.

Resources

• Who else is doing the work? Check out our Member Directory and use our search filter to display member nonprofit organizations by their “primary service area.” You may find someone who already shares your goals and mission.
  
• How can you connect with other nonprofit folks? See our “Get Connected” page.
  
• See our PDF presenting some vision, mission, and values statements.
  
• Video: First Things First