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How to Start a Nonprofit
Starting a Nonprofit Organization

The Idaho Nonprofit Center receives calls and emails every week from individuals who want to start a nonprofit organization.  In response, we have compiled a list of free resources to provide guidance and food for thought. 

The Nonprofit Center does not provide consulting services or assistance with filing documents for incorporation in Idaho or tax-exempt status with the IRS.  Please visit our Business Index for organizations providing these services.

Note:  Due to the impact of the financial crisis on grant makers and individual donors, many groups are struggling to find funding to start and sustain a new organization.  The article “Alternatives to Starting a Nonprofit” offers ideas for accomplishing your goals without starting a new nonprofit.


General Resources for Starting a Nonprofit

What is a nonprofit?

Nuts and bolts of starting a nonprofit organization

Starting an NPO — Five tips and a warning

Five Step Guide & Resources from the National Council of Nonprofits
 
Starting a Nonprofit from Minnesota Council of Nonprofits
 
Help Starting a Nonprofit from the Connecticut Association of Nonprofits

When to use a Fiscal Sponsorship

Mini-Courses and Tax Basics for Nonprofits

Establishing a Nonprofit Organization 

Sample Articles, Bylaws, Form 1023, and more

Help filling out your IRS Form 1023 application

Nonprofit Law Resource Library

NOLO Legal Articles on Starting a Nonprofit


Idaho State Law Resources

Initial Filings for Idaho Nonprofit Organizations

Business Entity Name Search in Idaho

Online Form – Idaho Articles of Incorporation (please read the note)
 
Handbook for Idaho Nonprofit Corporations – order from Idaho State Bar for $35

Idaho Nonprofit Corporation Act

Annual Filings for Idaho Nonprofit Orgs


IRS Resources

IRS HelpLine for Exempt Organizations:  1-877-829-5500

Applying for Tax Exempt Status brochure

Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) online

IRS Application Form 1023

Instructions for Form 1023

Frequently Asked Questions about filling out the Form 1023

Life Cycle of a Public Charity

Compliance Guide for 501c3 Public Charities brochure

IRS website for Charities & Nonprofits

IRS Tax Exempt Status for Your Organization – 72 pages
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Webcast: How to Start a Nonprofit

This webcast, which discusses the legal and practical considerations of starting a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, was given on September 15th by Daniel A. Hershey, and was sponsored by ReadyTalk. A recording of the presentation (audio and accompanying slideshow) is still available on ReadyTalk's website.  If you or someone you know is interested in starting a nonprofit organization, we encourage you to listen to the presentation by clicking here.

Topics covered in the presentation include:

• state and federal requirements;
• governance
• bylaws and articles of incorporation;
• IRS Form 1023;
• charitable registration and annual compliance;
• board minutes and resolutions;
• insurance; and
• fiscal sponsorship.
 
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Free Webinar Series for Startups

Are you considering starting a nonprofit organization, or do you already run or work for a nonprofit startup? The Foundation Center held a special five-part webinar series just for you, and now you can view all the recorded webinars.

A strong nonprofit needs a vital mission, clear lines of accountability, reliable and diverse revenue streams, and high-quality programs and services. This webinar series guides you through these issues to help you start off on solid footing and learn to build an effective organization.

Click here for more information.
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Should You Start a Nonprofit? Read This First