Choose a mission and define the problem you will address
Identify your target community and beneficiaries
Research relevant laws and requirements in your state/country
Form a founding group and define roles/responsibilities
Draft bylaws covering membership, board structure, meetings, voting, and officer roles
Create a board of directors with required independence and term structure
Write a mission statement and program plan
Develop a budget and initial funding strategy
Determine your nonprofit structure (e.g., corporation, trust, association)
Select a nonprofit name and confirm availability
Prepare and file the articles of incorporation/formation
Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS (or local tax authority)
Apply for state tax exemptions (if applicable)
Apply for federal tax-exempt status (e.g., IRS Form 1023 or 1023-EZ in the U.S.)
Set up required governance documents and records
Open a business bank account in the nonprofit’s name
Establish basic financial controls (two-signature rules, budgeting process, recordkeeping)
Create conflict-of-interest and document-retention policies
Create an accounting system and bookkeeping plan
Draft a grant/funding proposal and program outcomes framework
Build partnerships and confirm service delivery logistics
Develop a fundraising plan and compliance approach for donations
Set up donation processing and receipts procedures
Ensure compliance with charitable solicitation laws (if fundraising publicly)
Register for required state/local filings (annual reports, charitable registrations)
Implement employment/volunteer policies (if hiring or using volunteers)
Obtain insurance coverage (general liability, directors & officers, etc., as needed)
Hold your initial board meeting to approve bylaws, officers, bank signers, and filings
Keep meeting minutes and maintain corporate records
Launch programs with measurable goals and track outcomes
File required annual tax and reporting documents
Maintain ongoing compliance (state registrations, board governance, conflict-of-interest updates)