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A General Overview of Starting a Nonprofit

Nonprofit Startup Guide

Steps to Starting Your Central Florida Nonprofit Successfully

A nonprofit is a great way to turn your vision and passion for helping others in your community into a reality. Nonprofits cross numerous areas including: religious, educational, human service oriented, animal welfare, and more. Before you start a new nonprofit, it is important to identify that the need is unmet in your community through existing organizations.

Preparing to start a Nonprofit is very important and can help you succeed. More than half Nonprofits do not make it through their first year because they did not plan and research before starting.

Before starting a Nonprofit

It is important to do some research:

  • Will your nonprofit make a difference for someone/something?
  • What other organizations in your community address this need?
  • How will your organization be different?
  • Why is your organization needed if others are doing this work? already?

Incorporating and applying for 501(c)(3) status will allow you to apply for grants and accept donations, be exempt from federal corporate income tax, and limit the liability of your organization’s officers and directors. Being a nonprofit 501(c)(3) will gain credibility and legitimacy for your cause, instilling the public with confidence in your organization.

Central Florida Startup Guide - Research your Idea
STEP ONE

Name Your Organization

Your organization’s name establishes its brand.

Central Florida Startup Guide - Central Florida Business Planning Help
STEP TWO

Plan Your Organization

Define mission vision and values. Appoint a registered agent and incorporator. Identify at least three board members, find a location, and research all fees for filing.

Help with Registering Your Central Florida Business
STEP THREE

File the Proper Paperwork

No matter what kind of nonprofit you will be developing, you will want to make sure you are established legally.

Decide Your Central Florida Legal Business Structure
STEP FOUR

Develop Your Strategy

It will be important to develop a board of directors, open a separate bank account and ensure operations align with your nonprofit strategy.

Florida Angel Capital and Florida Venture Capital Information
STEP FIVE

Growth and Long Term Success

Gather community support, outline fundraising efforts, connect with local partners and more.

Thank you to SCORE Orlando and the Edyth Bush Institute for Philanthropy & Nonprofit Leadership for contributing to the information provided in this guide.