If you’re thinking of starting up a non-profit organization, it’s important to have all the information you need to get started up and make a success once of it. There are lots of things you need to consider, so we’ve created the following guide of all the information you need to know and steps to take in order to set up a successful non-profit. Keep reading to learn more.
Research Your Cause
You will likely already have a good idea of what your cause will be, but before setting up a non-profit you need to do some intense research about it. You need to have a specific issue you are trying to address- ideally one that doesn’t already have a large organization focused on it. You need to find a balance between something that really needs representation, but also will have enough interest from enough people to donate that it makes a difference. Look into how many other organizations already support your cause- and what you can do better than them. Research the issues you care about and how you could make a difference to them with your organization.
What Impact Do You Want To Make
What areas need the most funding and why. If possible, consider volunteering for existing organizations to give you invaluable insight into the problems facing the thing you’re trying to support. For example, if the thing you care about is dogs living on the streets, consider volunteering for an organization that shelters homeless dogs and learn more about what they do to help. You need to have a clear idea of what exactly you want to achieve and why because you will also need to get this across to the public.
Picking A Name
Choosing the right name for your organization is important as it needs to convey the cause you’re focusing on- but also ideally be short and memorable. Research whether there are already any organizations or companies that already use the name you would like to use- so it’s best to have several ideas in mind in case you can’t use one.
Web Domains
Once you’ve decided on a name- you can create a website and secure a domain name. you will have to research whether or not the domain name you want is available to use. You can use domain name registrars to find out what domain names are available for you.
Branding And Marketing
Your brand will be the first impression the public will get of your organization, so it’s worth taking the time to make sure it represents you in the right way. Your logo is one of the best ways to instantly make an impression about your nonprofit, so think about what logo would suit your purpose and how it would get the message across. A good logo should be simple and memorable, incorporating any signature colors your organization may have. Work with a good graphic design company to create a logo perfect for you. Good marketing is essential in order to make a success of your nonprofit. It will help you reach a wider target audience and improve your chances of receiving donations. It can also help you get the attention of the media which would be a huge boost to donations and support for your nonprofit.
Your Mission Statement
Your mission statement is important as it will give people an impression of what your organization is about and the work you do. Form this people will judge whether or not they want to donate to your cause, so it needs to stir emotion and empathy. A mission statement can’t waffle on, it needs to be succinct and clear whilst still giving the audience enough information.
Timescale
Have a timescale in place in which you want to achieve all your targets and goals. This will allow you to stay focused and on track, and give your organization a better chance of succeeding.
Find Tech To Streamline The Process
Technology is essential for any organization, and a non-profit is no exception. For example, using Venmo for nonprofits gives people the chance to easily and quickly donate money to your organization, making it more likely for you to receive donations. When you’re setting up your website you can add a button for people to click on that allows them to donate through Venmo. As Venmo is one of the largest mobile payment services out there, and with so many using it, it opens up a lot of opportunities for increased donations.
Choosing A Leadership Team
An important aspect of a successful non-profit is building the right team members around you. When you choose your leadership team you need to pick people who are just as passionate and motivated about the cause as you are. They need to be creative and full of energy to help with fundraising and getting your goals and aims across to the public.
Board Members
You also need to decide who you want as the board members for your organization. These people need to be knowledgeable on the subjects surrounding your cause, professional, and understand regulatory compliance. Choose people who can bring skills and knowledge to the table and will work well as part of a team. There are two types of boards you can have. A working board will be more involved in the organization day-to-day. A governing board won’t be as involved with the daily running but will be on hand to advise when needed. So it’s up to you to decide what kind of board would work best for your organization.
Volunteers Volunteers are very often the backbone of many non-profits, selflessly giving their time to take part in offering their services and fundraising. You will need to come up with a plan of how you will recruit volunteers, will you advertise online or create posters for example. In your interviewing process, give clear information on how many hours volunteers would ideally contribute, what their duties would be, and the positive impact they would be making. Ask them why they want to volunteer and make an effort to get to know them.
