Thinking about starting a nonprofit for a cause near and dear to your heart? Read below for some tips on how to begin, and check out this article on Inc for more details.
1. Do some research. What other organizations are also working on this cause? Look at organizations of all scale -- global giants and small local nonprofits. Keep a list of who to watch and pay attention to their work. What is going to make your mission different or complementary to what is already happening?
2. Have an open mind. Your plan will evolve in the beginning stages. Go with it! According to Kat Calvin, founder of Spread the Vote: "No matter what you do, you are going to change your process dozens of times before you find the right solution. It's called pivoting and it's what every smart startup does."
3. Raise some seed money. You'll need some funds to get started, especially if you want to quit your day job and work on this full-time. (However, many people choose to work on their start-up on the side while still maintaining a full-time job.) Consider crowdfunding on a site like Kickstarter, GoFundMe, or Indiegogo. Get creative - do you have any special skills you can utilize to fundraise?
4. Outsource. You cannot be an expert in everything. Consider seeking the help of an event management consultant for your first big event. Hire a graphic designer to make your logo. Outsource select tasks so that you can focus on the work that is important to you.
Looking for more tips? We are here to help you. DSC specializes in start-up to mid-size nonprofits, working with you to maximize the full potential of your mission. Click on our 'Contact' page and reach out for a free consultation.