How to Start a Nonprofit That Will Change the World
A Comprehensive Guide to Assist Founders in Navigating the Hidden Obstacles of Building & Leading a New Nonprofit Organization
A Guide to Help Founders.
Finding the expert guidance you need from the start is the most important thing you can do to ensure long term success. You know what you want to do, and the change you wish to make in the world, but what is the best way to start the journey?
Look no further than "How to Start a Nonprofit Organization That Will Change the World," an indispensable guide for aspiring nonprofit leaders.
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This amazing book on how to start a successful nonprofit packs more know-how and guidance than most law books!
What's inside "How to Start a Nonprofit"
STEP 1
Read
Gain a clear understanding of nonprofit formation, 501(c)(3) requirements, governance basics, and the legal steps required to launch.
STEP 2
Reflect
Evaluate your mission and long-term vision to ensure a nonprofit structure that supports your goals.
STEP 3
Act
Follow practical, step-by-step guidance to incorporate, apply for tax-exempt status, and establish compliant policies and board structures.
STEP 4
Grow
Build sustainable systems for governance, financial oversight, and fundraising to support long-term impact.
STEP 1
Read
Gain a clear understanding of nonprofit formation, 501(c)(3) requirements, governance basics, and the legal steps required to launch.
STEP 2
Reflect
Evaluate your mission and long-term vision to ensure a nonprofit structure that supports your goals.
STEP 3
Act
Follow practical, step-by-step guidance to incorporate, apply for tax-exempt status, and establish compliant policies and board structures.
STEP 4
Grow
Build sustainable systems for governance, financial oversight, and fundraising to support long-term impact.
What You’ll Learn
Lay the right foundation from the very beginning
Starting a nonprofit takes more than passion — it requires clarity, structure, and a grounded understanding of what it really means to lead a mission-driven organization. Whether you’re just starting to explore your idea or are ready to take action, this book will give you the insight and confidence you need to move forward with purpose.
Ready to get started? Download the first three chapters for free, or buy the full book and take the next step toward launching your world-changing organization.
Determine the Right Nonprofit Structure for Your Mission
Understand the differences between 501(c)(3) and other nonprofit classifications — and choose the legal structure that aligns with your goals.
Clarify Your Purpose and Governance Framework
Define your mission, board structure, and leadership model before filing, so your organization is built on a strong foundation.
Navigate the Path to Tax-Exempt Status with Confidence
Take informed, step-by-step action toward securing federal and state recognition and maintaining compliance from day one.
Avoid Costly Startup Mistakes
Learn the most common legal, governance, and fundraising pitfalls new nonprofits face — and how to avoid them.
Align Vision with Legal and Regulatory Requirements
Translate your passion into compliant bylaws, policies, and filings that support long-term sustainability.
Prepare for fundraising and Financial Oversight
Learn the compliance requirements, reporting expectations, and donor considerations that shape successful nonprofit growth.
Determine the Right Nonprofit Structure for Your Mission
Understand the differences between 501(c)(3) and other nonprofit classifications — and choose the legal structure that aligns with your goals.
Clarify Your Purpose and Governance Framework
Define your mission, board structure, and leadership model before filing, so your organization is built on a strong foundation.
Navigate the Path to Tax-Exempt Status with Confidence
Take informed, step-by-step action toward securing federal and state recognition and maintaining compliance from day one.
Avoid Costly Startup Mistakes
Learn the most common legal, governance, and fundraising pitfalls new nonprofits face — and how to avoid them.
Align Vision with Legal and Regulatory Requirements
Translate your passion into compliant bylaws, policies, and filings that support long-term sustainability.
Prepare for fundraising and Financial Oversight
Learn the compliance requirements, reporting expectations, and donor considerations that shape successful nonprofit growth.
Readers Are Transforming Their Leadership
“This book is a treasure-trove of facts and insights that can capably guide anyone who is considering launching a nonprofit.”
Pat Libby, Author, "The Empowered Citizens Guide: 10 Steps to Passing a Law that Matters to You!"
“Ms. Harris' legal background creates the foundation for the lessons recorded in the book, but her leadership caveats are an important aspect that the reader should not overlook.”
L. Hennessy
“This is such a great resource for starting and running a nonprofit. I highly recommend it to anyone who has questions or needs help getting started.”
Ishtar Hogsett
The Author
Written by a leader who’s been there
Authored by May L. Harris Esq., MA, a seasoned nonprofit attorney with a wealth of experience, this exceptional guide unveils the secrets to launching and nurturing a successful nonprofit venture.
With her extensive expertise in nonprofit law, a Master's Degree in Nonprofit Leadership and Management from the University of San Diego, and the founder of several nonprofit organizations over the past twenty years, Mrs. Harris provides aspiring founders with a comprehensive roadmap to transform their vision into reality.
Beyond her legal practice, May is a trusted advisor, educator, and advocate for a stronger, more equitable nonprofit sector. Through Nonprofit Counsel and her work at FPLG, she continues to empower the leaders and organizations working to make the world better—one mission at a time.
Our Impact
Trusted by nonprofit leaders across key categories
This book has resonated with nonprofit practitioners nationwide, reaching top rankings on Amazon in fundraising and grants, marketing and communications, and overall management and leadership—reflecting its practical value in the day-to-day work of running a mission-driven organization.
Amazon Best-Seller Trends
#1st
in "Nonprofit Fundraising & Grants"
#1st
in “Nonprofit Marketing & Communications”
#2nd
in "Nonprofit Management & Leadership"
