ANE: How to Start a Nonprofit

How to Start a Nonprofit: A Crash Course

Are you thinking about starting a nonprofit organization but aren't sure where to begin? This informative 3-hour workshop provides aspiring nonprofit founders with a practical introduction to establishing a 501(c)3 organization in Virginia. Designed for individuals with a passion for addressing community needs, this course offers a clear overview of the nonprofit formation process and the responsibilities that come with operating a tax-exempt organization.

Participants will explore key questions to consider before launching a nonprofit, including whether a new organization is the best solution for addressing a community issue and what resources are needed to sustain an effective mission-driven organization. The workshop also outlines the recommended order of operations for filing state and federal paperwork, helping attendees understand the steps involved in moving from idea to incorporation and tax-exempt status.

In addition, participants will receive an introduction to nonprofit governance and operational best practices, including board responsibilities, organizational oversight, and compliance requirements. These foundational concepts can help new organizations establish strong structures and avoid common mistakes during the startup phase.

What You'll Learn

• Important considerations before forming a nonprofit organization
• The correct sequence for filing required state and federal paperwork
• Basic operating and governance practices that support legal compliance
• Common challenges and misconceptions faced by new nonprofits

What’s NOT Covered: This is not a walk-thru of how to complete IRS paperwork

This is a class that can be done remotely *or* in person from our Norfolk Campus. A Zoom Link will be sent out a week before the class for those who would like to attend remotely. Otherwise, the class will take place in the TCC Visual Arts and Design Center in Norfolk.