Starting a nonprofit is an inspiring way to give back to the community and help those in need. However, it isn’t an easy ordeal and requires commitment, critical thinking, patience and a lot of hard work
The Seamless brand is aware of how intimidating, tedious and complex it is to start an international nonprofit. This is why we’ve compiled a detailed guide below, containing all the key steps you need to take to start an international nonprofit organisation.
1. Do your homework
First, it’s imperative to conduct a needs analysis to find out if there are any other nonprofits doing the same or similar work internationally. Join nonprofit networks during this time and build an information base and a network of mentors. It’ll go a long way in helping you get an accurate pulse of the need that your international nonprofit will address.
2. Build a solid foundation
You need to build your international nonprofit on a solid foundation with a clear vision and mission to succeed. Here’s how you can achieve this:
- Select a name for your nonprofit
- Clearly identify and state the problem/need
- Find a solution to the problem
- Define a population
- Determine vision and values
- Create a to-the-point mission statement
All this information will come in handy once your nonprofit is established, especially when seeking donors or applying for grants.
3. Develop your board
Your nonprofits’ Board of Directors will fulfil various roles and legal responsibilities that ensure your organisation runs smoothly and effectively. So, you have to choose a group of like-minded people with a genuine interest in your nonprofit’s goal.
Seeing as your nonprofit will operate globally, your board should fairly represent everyone, including governmental, business and target population. Remember, all board positions are voluntary, and no board member will profit from their involvement in your nonprofit.
4. Write a business plan
Next, create and write a comprehensive business plan detailing your nonprofit’s:
- Mission statement
- A brief description of the organisation
- An administrative chart with the chain of responsibility
- Objectives and goals
- A proposed budget
- Marketing and fundraising strategies
It’s advisable to outsource for help from professionals such as a certified public accountant, financial planner or a global business development company like the Seamless brand during this stage to get expert advice and guidance.
5. Incorporate your nonprofit
Incorporating your international nonprofit registers its business name with the national business registry, ensuring you have a formal structure that makes your programs and services credible. You’ll have to file Articles of Incorporation in the state your organisation will operate in and pay the nominal fee required.
You also have to file the federal 501 (c) (3) to get the tax-exempt status, but you have to be patient as it can take several months to receive approval for the nonprofit status.
To learn more about starting an international nonprofit and how you can run and manage one, get in touch with our team at the Seamless brand today. We offer professional services that ensure you can do your international nonprofit work as effectively and efficiently as possible.