what is the best way to start a small non profit organization (npo) ??

Answer 1

Associations may be a good avenue to explore. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links.

Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can about the industry. Here are some book titles that are relevant:

* Starting and Running a Non-Profit Made Easy by Entrepreneur Press, David H. Bangs
* Starting and Running a Nonprofit Organization by Joan M. Hummel
* The Nonprofit Handbook: Everything You Need to Know to Start and Run Your Nonprofit Organization by Gary M. Grobman
* Starting & Building A Nonprofit: A Practical Guide by Peri Pakroo

There are plenty of free informational resources out there. Check the source box for links to articles.

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!

Answer 2

There's too much involved to get into here, but the Foundation Center in NY has a website with a wealth of information about the various requirements and best practices for starting a nonprofit organization.

http://foundationcenter.org/getstarted/faqs/section_4a.html
has a number of FAQs (see below) that explain the process and will get you started off on the right foot::

How do I establish a nonprofit organization?

What are the advantages/disadvantages of becoming a nonprofit organization?

How do I calculate the "public support test?"

Where can I find information on bylaws for nonprofit organizations?

Where can I find examples of nonprofit bylaws?

Where can I find examples of articles of incorporation for nonprofits?

Where can I find examples of nonprofit budgets?

Where can I find examples of business plans for a nonprofit organization?

Where can I find information on nonprofit boards?

Where can I find information about establishing an advisory board for a nonprofit?

Where can I find information on, and examples of, mission statements for nonprofit organizations?

http://foundationcenter.org/getstarted/faqs/section_4a.html

Best of luck!

Answer 3

I would imagine that you need to send out info to your prospective contributors what your company will be doing to benefit the community.

you also have to explain what your expenses are so they can decide if they believe in your company and what they would like to contribute.

some will contribute on a regular basis, other will just give a lump sum here and there. depending on their budget and how much they can give per year.

for non-profit you have to give almost all of your info regarding the business., what it is for, what your goals are, why you decided to go into this business, your annual/monthly accounts, rental fees, other fees, etc.