Steps to Starting a Nonprofit Organization

When starting any organization or business you must do so on a solid foundation. In the nonprofit world organizations begin as the vision of an individual or group seeking to meet the needs of others through various programs not for profit, but for the sheer pleasure of helping others. There are 12 tasks you will need to accomplish as part of the process of establishing a nonprofit organization.

• File the certificate of incorporation
• Select individuals to serve on the board of directors
• Develop vision and mission statements
• Establish bylaws and board policies
• Obtain an employer identification number (EIN)
• Open a bank account and establish check signing procedures
• File for federal tax exemption
• Follow state and local nonprofit regulations
• Find office space and obtain office equipment
• Recruit staff and prepare a personnel manual
• Establish a payroll system and procure necessary insurance coverage
• Develop an overall fundraising plan

(Source: http://fdncenter.org/learn/classroom/establish/index.html)