Checklist For Starting a Nonprofit Organization

So you have your idea and have decided that you want to start a nonprofit. Welcome to the journey!  There will be overwhelming times, but there will be victories along the way. There are many moving pieces and you will feel as if you’re missing a step.  To help guide you along the way,  download your nonprofit startup checklist to walk you through the process from start to launch.  Remember that many state laws and regulations may impact this information, but I've tried my best to generalize the steps.  The checklist is a list of administrative steps, but you should first read what I hate about nonprofits to learn practical considerations for startup.  Below are the categories that you will find in the checklist.

**A quick note:  The nonprofit startup checklist was developed in a particular order, but some of the processes mentioned may overlap and some processes may take longer than others.  The point of the checklist is to have one central place to keep track of the many requirements for starting a nonprofit.  Use it as a guide to keep yourself on track once you begin your journey.  If you need help staying organized, schedule a free 20 minute consultation with me.

The checklist has 8 key areas:

Idea & Development Phase

This phase covers several areas including:

• Starting your idea and developing a vision and mission

• Choosing a board

• Creating by-laws

• Developing governance policies

• Naming your nonprofit

Execution

This phase covers several areas including:

• Incorporating the organization

• Developing a plan and budget

• Bookkeeping and accounting procedures

Federal & State Forms

This phase covers several areas including:

• Applying for an EIN

• Establishing a bank account

• IRS and state forms

Fundraising

This phrase covers the necessary disclosures you must have to fundraise.

Insurance

This phase covers the insurances you need to protect you and your board.

Branding & Communication

This phase covers several areas including:

• Developing a communication plan

• Developing a website and social media

Evaluation & Performance

This phase covers areas you need to evaluate performance and track data.

Staffing Requirements

This phase covers several areas including: 

• Developing human resources manual

• Maintaining payroll requirements

• Providing health insurance and retirement

Download it now to get started on your nonprofit startup journey today.