Start a Nonprofit
Your idea has the potential to make a real difference in your community. Whether you're dreaming of opening a food pantry, launching an animal rescue, supporting veterans, providing medical transportation, or addressing another unmet need, every great nonprofit begins with a single step.
Starting a nonprofit doesn't have to feel overwhelming. That's why we created The Nonprofit People's Guide to Starting a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit—a practical, step-by-step workbook that walks you through the entire startup process. Instead of wondering what to do next, you'll have clear guidance, helpful worksheets, checklists, and proven strategies to help you build a strong foundation for your organization.
Our team has helped launch nearly 500 nonprofit organizations, and we've seen firsthand that many passionate founders simply need an affordable, easy-to-follow roadmap to turn their vision into reality.
With the right preparation and a complete application, many new nonprofits receive IRS approval in as little as 30 days after submitting their application. We'll help you prepare with confidence so you can focus on what matters most—serving your community and creating lasting impact.
Your mission starts here. Let us help you bring it to life.
Guidance
Our workbook guides you through every step. What to include in your mission statement, how to envision and explain the work you will do, how to inspire others to give, and what to include in your IRS application are just the beginning.
State Incorporation
Nonprofits are corporations. Therefore, they need to be incorporated into at least one state. Your Articles of Incorporation can be accomplished on line and is not difficult to do, and the workbook provides what needs to be included.
IRS Form 1023
This is the big one. Form 1023 is the IRS Application for Exemption, which is what makes your organization tax-exempt, meaning you are not paying tax on the funds used for charitable purposes and donors can receive a tax deduction.
Ongoing Advice
As you begin your nonprofit organization, questions will arise.
You can schedule time with us if you need us to review your work or answer questions. Additional Fee
Employer Identification Number
You can think of your Employer Identification Number (often referred to as an "EIN"), as your organization's social security number. It helps the government track your work, finances, and exempt status.
Coaching
While your IRS application is being processed, you don't have to put your mission on hold. Make the most of this time with personalized mentoring sessions designed to help you build a strong foundation before your nonprofit officially launches.
Together, we'll work through your questions, develop your fundraising strategy, prepare your organization for success, and create a clear action plan so you're ready to begin serving your community from day one.
Available as an optional add-on service.
Pricing
You can obtain this Nonprofit Workbook is only $49.99
Additional fee for coaching and mentoring!
What's Included
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Step-by-step instructions for starting a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
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Mission, vision, and core values worksheets
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Nonprofit naming guide and availability checklist
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NTEE code selection guidance
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Board of Directors recruitment and responsibilities
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Articles of Incorporation overview and filing guidance
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Employer Identification Number (EIN) application instructions
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Nonprofit bylaws overview and helpful resources
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Form 1023 vs. Form 1023-EZ comparison
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IRS tax-exempt application guidance
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Charitable solicitation registration overview
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Organizational meeting checklist
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Financial setup recommendations
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Fillable workbook exercises and chapter checklists
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Links to official IRS, state, and nonprofit resources
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A complete nonprofit startup checklist to keep you on track
IRS and State Filing Fees are extra and vary by state.
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All State Filing Fees (approx. $100)
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All IRS Filing Fees ($275 - $600)
This guide was the most important information I found in forming my new nonprofit. It was easy to follow, walked me through every step and even gave me the websites to apply for everything online. SUPER AFFORDABLE! Took me no time at all.
Stephanie W, Founder
Willo Recovery Network.