{"id":4886,"date":"2016-04-04T10:47:49","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:47:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/strategic-planning-for-nonprofit-organizations.html"},"modified":"2024-05-23T00:05:53","modified_gmt":"2024-05-23T05:05:53","slug":"strategic-planning-for-nonprofit-organizations","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/strategic-planning-for-nonprofit-organizations.html","title":{"rendered":"Strategic Planning for Nonprofit Organizations"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Strategic Planning for Nonprofit Organizations<\/h1>\n
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\n By Jade Yeban, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Aviana Cooper, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

Starting a nonprofit corporation can be a big step for business owners. Like a for-profit business, a nonprofit has its own set of rules and steps to follow. The main difference between these two organizations is that a nonprofit can get a tax-exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), meaning it doesn’t have to pay income tax. This special status helps a lot when fundraising and making a difference in the community.<\/p>\r\n

Strategic planning can help a nonprofit<\/a> achieve its goals. A plan will assist a nonprofit as it evaluates its assets and any challenges it may encounter. A strategic plan will also define the organization’s mission, goals, and objectives and will guide the nonprofit as it sets out to accomplish its purpose. This article will guide entrepreneurs through the process of creating a sound financial plan and the proper business structure for their nonprofit organization.<\/p>\r\n

Form your nonprofit with confidence.\u202fOur trusted partner LegalZoom has packages starting at $99 + filing fees.<\/a><\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n

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Define Your Mission<\/h2>\r\n

First, every nonprofit<\/a> needs a clear mission. What is the purpose of your organization? Whether it’s advocacy or outreach, having a clear goal helps guide the board of directors and other members. Your mission should be short, specific, and written in your bylaws.<\/p>\r\n

Every nonprofit has a mission<\/a>. A mission is the reason for the existence of the organization and is the driving force behind the decisions that the nonprofit will make. A nonprofit will define the purpose of the organization in a mission statement. A mission statement should:<\/p>\r\n