How to Start a Non Profit Organization
The general perception about a non-profit organization (NPO) is that it is an organization that works only to help the less-privileged and the deprived. While a majority of NPOs do work towards those goals, they are certainly not the only type of NPOs that exist. There are organizations that work for research, for development of the locality, for animals, etc. Such organizations do have employees whom they pay salaries, but their aim is not to earn profit. The money they receive is used for the goal that they have set up the organization for. That is what a non-profit organization is. Now that we got that fundamental out of the way, let's see how you can set up one.
Decide the Mission and Vision of the Organization
Every non-profit organization has an aim or a mission for which it is striving for. You and your colleagues should be very clear about the mission and should plan how you will be proceeding to attain it. A common aim or mission will help to create a unity among the members of the non profit organization. Without a mission or a set goal, the efforts made will not be in the right direction and this lack of proper management will result in the failure of the charity.
Form the Team and Recruit the Members
Forming the team and recruiting the junior and senior level management is the next step in the formation of a non profit organization. The core team should have experienced people with the sole objective of serving a cause without expecting to profit from it. Those who have earlier experience in social service of any form should be given first preference. Recruit well educated, deserving and dedicated people for the other positions in the office as per their qualifications and experience. There should be sufficient number of employees in all the departments such as finance and accounts, administration, marketing etc. It is important to ensure that everyone works in co-operation to ensure the smooth running of the organization.
Complete all the Legal Formalities
Completing all the legal formalities is an important step in the formation of a non profit organization. You should file the Articles of Incorporation with the concerned state agency. This step will help to safeguard the interests of the board of directors and the employees of the organization. You should also file for the 501(c)(3) for seeking the status of a charitable organization, exemption from the taxes and a non profit mailing permit. It is essential to obtain all these licenses and permits for running a non profit organization.
Find a Location and Have a Budget
It is very essential to have sufficient space for starting a non profit organization. You should look for a good location to start your office and can seek concessions and grants from the local government for the same. The chances of you receiving the grants are high if the government authorities are satisfied with your preparation and hard work to achieve your set targets. You should ensure that you have the right kind of infrastructure, as it is a must to successfully run a non profit organization. Good inflow of money is imperative for the success of the non profit organization. You can appeal to the public, government and corporates to contribute for the noble cause through advertising in newspapers.
Before you start a non-profit organization, make sure that the cause that you wish to serve is something that is not very common in your area. The government may be reluctant to grant you a permit if it sees that too many organizations are doing the same work. So, follow these steps and begin the noble work that you wish to do.
