I recently came across this post from 2005 at Idealist.org, and the points it makes are just as valid today as they are when Putnam Barber originally wrote it. In a nutshell, here are his tips (along with my comments):

  1. All Nonprofits are Local. Since you are located somewhere, you will need to follow the rules and regulations in your local jurisdiction. As you expand and operate in other areas, you will also need to know and follow the rules and regulations there.
  2. Local Supporters are Necessary. Unlike some for-profit businesses, nonprofit organizations are not solo operations. You will need a core group of local supporters that are willing to volunteer, serve on your board of directors, and take other roles within the organization.
  3. Nonprofits can be—in fact, have to be—“businesslike.” Some people say “businesslike” as though that is a bad thing. Nothing could be more wrong. Nonprofits must adhere to the same principles of planning, organization, marketing, and financial management as for-profit businesses.
  4. Often not starting a nonprofit at all is the best way to serve. Be sure to do adequate research in the planning stage to determine if a new nonprofit is needed or if there is another way you can contribute to the causes you have a passion for.
  5. Plan for the Long Term. To be useful and successful, your new nonprofit must be prepared to sustain itself and its programs or services for the long term. This includes disaster planning, strategic planning, succession planning, and financial sustainablity.

Read the full post here along with links to more resources to assist you with each of these tips.

Starting a Nonprofit? Start Here. Go Far. LaunchX.com