So You Want to Start a Nonprofit? Here’s What You Really Need to Know
Starting a nonprofit can feel like a bold leap of faith—especially when your heart’s in the right place, but you’re not sure where to begin. Maybe you’ve experienced something personally, or seen a need that no one else is meeting. Maybe you're just tired of watching communities fall through the cracks and feel called to create change.
Whatever brought you here, welcome. As someone who’s worked alongside passionate founders, grant writers, and community builders, I know how powerful this journey can be—and how overwhelming it can feel at the start.
Why Are You Really Doing This?
One of the first questions I ask people who want to start a nonprofit is: Why? Not just the surface-level reason—but the deep, personal motivation.
Is it about financial freedom? That’s okay to admit—but it can’t be the foundation. Many are drawn to the idea because executive directors can earn a good salary. But the truth is, purpose must come before pay. If you don’t feel deeply connected to the mission, your nonprofit won’t survive the storms that inevitably come.
I’ve worked with dozens of organizations founded on passion. My brother, for example, turned his love of gaming and his Native heritage into a nonprofit supporting healing and community building on reservations. It was personal. It was real. And that’s what kept it going.
What Problem Are You Solving—and Why Should Funders Care?
If you're thinking about grants and fundraising (and you should be), then you need to understand the need you're meeting.
One powerful example is a woman I had the honor of working with. A Muslim immigrant and mother, she had firsthand experience of the prejudice and challenges faced by women like her—especially those with children facing extreme medical needs. She dreamed of creating a safe haven for them, but she needed funding to make it real. Through strategic grant writing, we secured a substantial award that helped support her vision of an impactful nonprofit.
This is what funders want to see: lived experience, community connection, and a clear plan to serve a pressing need. You don’t have to solve everything—you just need to solve something well.
Understand What It Really Takes to Launch and Grow
Let’s get real for a second: starting a nonprofit takes more time than starting a business.
You’ll need to:
File paperwork (state and federal)
Draft foundational documents (like a mission statement, bylaws, and a budget)
Recruit a Board of Directors
Build relationships in your community
Learn the basics of fundraising and grant writing (or hire someone like me to help)
And yes—you’ll likely be doing most of it yourself at first. Starting a nonprofit is not a “set it and forget it” deal. Unless you’re independently wealthy and can hire a full team from the start, expect to get your hands (and feet) wet. You’ll be in the weeds, writing grants, doing outreach, and refining your strategy constantly.
But here’s the beautiful part: you don’t have to do it alone.
You’re Not Alone—Let’s Build It Together
If you're still reading this, it means your passion is real—and that’s the most important part. There will be obstacles. There will be narrow seasons. But your mission can carry you through.
And when you’re ready to take that next step, I’m here to help.
I offer a free 30-minute strategy call to help you get clear on your goals, understand your next steps, and build a roadmap to start—or grow—your nonprofit with confidence. Whether you need help with grant writing, fundraising strategies, or getting your foundational documents in place, I’ve got you.
Because your mission matters.
Book your free call today and let’s bring your vision to life!
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