BryteBridge Knowledge Center:
Ready to Start your Nonprofit?

Knowledge Center

Frequently asked Questions

Frequently asked Questions

Nonprofit Startup Checklist

Nonprofit Startup Checklist

Preparing To Start A Nonprofit Business

- Are you a public charity or private foundation?

- Do you have a name?

- Do you have an initial Board of Directors?

- Do you have initial funding?

- Will you fill a need in the community

Ready to Start your Nonprofit?

Step 1: Create Initial Documents

Step 1: Create Initial Documents

- A Note On Scams

- Conflict of Interest Policy

- Employer Identification Number (EIN)

- How to create initial documentation

- Incorporation

Step 2: Apply For Tax-Exempt Status

- Additional requirements for the 1023 Long and 1024 applications

- Comparing 501c Tax-Exempt Applications

- Fiscal Sponsor

- How to apply for tax exempt status

- How to apply for tax-exempt status

- Letter of Determination

- Types of Tax-Exempt Nonprofit Organizations

Step 3: File State Documents

- Charity Registration

- Foreign Registration

- How to file state documents

- Local Registrations

- State Licenses

- State/Sales Tax Exemption

Step 4: Market Your Nonprofit

- Email Newsletter

- Marketing Checklist

- Press Release

- Types of marketing to consider

Step 5: Raise Funds

- Corporate Sponsorship (Goal: 10-15% of Revenue)

- Donor Management and Appreciation

- Foundation Grants (Goal: 2-5% of Revenue)

- Fundraising Checklist

- Personal Donations (Goal: 60-70% of Revenue)

- Professional Fundraiser

- Service Fees (Goal: 5-10% of Revenue)

- Types of fundraising options

Step 6: Develop Staff

- How to develop volunteer and paid staff

- Staffing Checklist

Step 7: Operating The Nonprofit

- Annual Report to Constituents

- Board of Directors

- Consultation and Networking

- Executive Director

- How to operate the nonprofit

- Ongoing Operation Checklist

- Policy Manuals

- Strategic Plan

Step 8: Annual Compliance

- Annual Compliance Checklist

- How to stay in annual compliance