Starting a Non Profit Organization

Considering Starting a Non Profit Organization?

I recently read stats that suggested there are presently an estimated 1.4 million charities in existence.

But the sad reality is that many non profits are started on a "whim" and disappear as quickly as they come having never been properly planned before launching.

Non Profit start up takes careful thought, planning, and commitment. There are many things to learn and consider before taking the plunge.

Having a passion for your cause is a definite asset but it's not enough.

Non Profit Start Up Questions

Take a few minutes to reflect on the questions below. Answering them will either solidify your decision and create a desire to learn more about starting a NPO or raise some doubts as to whether starting a nonprofit is really something you want to take responsibility for.

Be as honest as you can in answering these questions.

Things to consider:

• Is there truly a need for the Non Profit you hope to start?
• Is there another organization already providing a similar service?
• Do you have support from family, friends, or possible volunteers?
• Will your Not for Profit be incorporated?
• Do you know where your funding will come from?
• Will your non profit be registered or not?
• Will your non profit be filling a short term need or a long term?
• Do you have professional or volunteer networking contacts in the non profit sector?
• Do you have a mission statement?
• Have you prepared a business plan?

Be Sure of Your Decision to Start a Non Profit

You may not have been able to answer some of the above questions. That is fine. You're not expected to know everything today. Just be sure to find the answers before starting a non profit organization.

Explore our website a little further and do some research at your local library or on the internet. Try your hand at volunteering in some community projects to get a feel for what you might be getting yourself into.

Whatever you do, don't make a decision to start a non profit until you're satisfied and thoroughly convinced that starting a Non Profit is your calling. Otherwise, you won't have what it takes to keep it going.

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