Iâm a huge fan of people who take the plunge to start a nonprofit. But the reality is, starting a nonprofit isnât for everyone.
Surprised to hear that from a nonprofit coach at a company that forms nonprofits? Donât be. Itâs in your favor.
I feel comfortable being so honest on this topic because I believe in building healthy nonprofits and leaders. The world doesnât need more people being drawn to a fantastical idea only to implode because they didnât know what they were getting themselves into.
Here are some considerations ð¤ before starting a nonprofit:
**1. Why do I want to start a nonprofit?**
If your answer doesnât go much deeper than âI want to change the world and help peopleâ, you might want to pause and reflect. Everyone can be benefactors of good, but not everyone has to do it through leading a nonprofit. Organizations are formed with a compelling and concise mission, often meeting a niche need.
So if you have a specific purpose in mind, it may be time to start looking into next steps.
**2. Is someone already doing what my organization would do?**
Remove the pride and prestige of being a business owner. Making a difference starts with being a good steward of resources.
Do some research:
-Are there already organizations in your community doing what you would do?
-Does it make more sense for you to support them directly?
If the landscape looks scarce and your organization can meet a need thatâs currently being overlooked, youâre in a good place to start forming goals for a nonprofit.
**3. Do I have the margin/resources to do this?**
Running a nonprofit isnât always easy (or enjoyable, honestly). You have to consider what you can commit to at first and what your initial relationship with the organization is going to be financially (keep in mind, both of these can change over time).
-Is this going to be a side project?
-Will you scale back at your current job and supplement with funds from the nonprofit?
-Are you jumping all in with the hopes of being supported by the organization completely?
Have an realistic idea of your margin and energy. You'll need both to lead and scale a nonprofit. If that idea excited you, starting mapping out what life could look like in the next few months with your 501(c)3 approval in hand.
Donât let these questions scare you. This is a critical and healthy step in the process of starting a nonprofit. If launching an organization really is your purpose in the present moment, you have nothing to be afraid of. ð