For many mission-driven individuals, starting a nonprofit can seem like a natural first step. Or is it? Aspiring nonprofit founders should understand the legal, logistical, and strategic dimensions of forming and operating a nonprofit organization. This session will discuss these considerations in-depth, focusing on the process of creating a nonprofit in the District of Columbia. We’ll also explore possible alternatives to forming a new nonprofit and the pros/cons of alternative legal entities.

Outcomes:

-          Learn the advantages and disadvantages of operating a nonprofit organization

-          Understand the legal process for creating and operating a 501(c)(3) organization

-          Discuss strategic and business planning considerations which should inform the decision to incorporate a new legal entity

-          Discover alternatives to creating a new nonprofit, including operating as a fiscally sponsored program or as hybrid-form social enterprises