There are many people all over the state of Minnesota that are very passionate about helping others. Often this passion has come from a close personal connection to the charity, cause or concern that has touched their lives or the life of someone they love.
Learning how to start a nonprofit in MN to solve a problem or address a gap in services for a specific group or community is a great idea, but it is not always easy. An active nonprofit requires business leadership, a lot of work and energy and a true ability to work with others.
The Need
Before spending a lot of time in learning how to start a nonprofit in MN, find out if there is a need for the service. There may already be other charities and nonprofits already working in your area of concern. Sometimes, people have a very general idea of what they want to do, which is a good start, but it will need to become much more specific before you can evaluate if there is a need.
Many people see a need, but either cannot define the need specifically or the need is very small. Remember, a nonprofit will be funded through grants and donations, so you will need to have an appeal to donors and contributors.
The Board
Once you have a specific idea for the nonprofit, choose a name and then get started on putting together a board. This will be the group that develops the organization’s bylaws as well as works to create your Articles of Incorporation.
Ideally, choose at least three and no more than eight other people. Choose people that are interested in the cause and that have experience, expertise and leadership skills to help to get the nonprofit launched.
Filing the Articles of Incorporation and the bylaws will provide you with the charitable status in the state once accepted. Then, develop a business plan on how to grow and sustain your nonprofit, this will be essential in applying for grants and when talking to donors and contributors.
