Starting a non-profit organization as a Native American involves a unique process that takes into account both the legal requirements of your state and federal laws, as well as the specific needs of your community. Below is a step-by-step tutorial for how to start a non-profit, along with some important considerations for Native American communities.
Step 1: Define Your Mission and Goals
The first step is to clearly define the mission of your non-profit. A mission statement is a concise explanation of the organization’s purpose. This should answer questions like:
- What is the problem your organization aims to address?
- How will your organization make a difference in the community?
- Who will benefit from your organization’s work?
For Native Americans, this could involve focusing on issues like:
- Tribal sovereignty
- Native language and cultural preservation
- Economic development in Native communities
- Education and healthcare
- Protecting land and natural resources
Step 2: Research the Need and Collaborate with the Community
Before you start the non-profit, it is important to conduct thorough research to determine whether there is a genuine need for your organization. Engage with your community to understand their needs, concerns, and challenges. This could involve:
- Holding community meetings
- Conducting surveys
- Speaking with local leaders or tribal councils
Collaboration with your community will help ensure that your organization is addressing real needs and can gain support from the people it seeks to help.
Step 3: Choose a Name for Your Non-Profit
The name of your non-profit should be memorable, reflective of your mission, and unique. Make sure that it:
- Reflects your mission and vision
- Is not already in use by another organization (do a name search in your state’s database)
- Is culturally respectful and accurate
Step 4: Incorporate Your Non-Profit
Incorporation gives your non-profit legal status, which provides liability protection, tax exemptions, and the ability to apply for grants. This process involves:
- Selecting a board of directors: In most states, you will need to have at least three directors. These should be individuals who are passionate about the cause, can provide governance, and ideally represent your community.
- Filing Articles of Incorporation: You will need to file this document with your state’s Secretary of State office. This is usually available online. In the Articles of Incorporation, you will:
- Include your non-profit’s name, mission, and purpose.
- List your board of directors and officers.
- State that your organization will operate as a non-profit.
For Native American communities, you may also need to work with a tribal government or tribal council, especially if your non-profit is focused on tribal issues or will operate on tribal land. In some cases, you may need to apply for special tribal status or obtain approval from the tribe before incorporating.
Step 5: Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
You will need an EIN, also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, from the IRS to operate as a non-profit. This number is required for:
- Opening a bank account in your organization’s name
- Filing taxes and applying for grants
- Hiring employees (if applicable)
You can apply for an EIN for free on the IRS website.
Step 6: Apply for Tax-Exempt Status
One of the main benefits of being a non-profit is the ability to be exempt from federal income tax. To gain tax-exempt status, you need to file IRS Form 1023 (Application for Recognition of Exemption) or the simplified Form 1023-EZ (for smaller non-profits). This process involves:
- Completing the application forms
- Submitting a copy of your Articles of Incorporation
- Providing a detailed description of your activities and how they align with your non-profit status
In addition to federal tax exemption, you may want to apply for state and local tax exemptions, which can vary depending on your location.
Step 7: Draft Bylaws for Your Organization
Bylaws are the rules that govern your organization’s operations. They should include details like:
- The purpose and mission of the non-profit
- The roles and responsibilities of board members
- How board members are elected
- How meetings will be conducted
- How funds will be managed
- Conflict of interest policies
Bylaws must comply with state and federal regulations, so it’s important to have them reviewed by a legal professional.
Step 8: Build Your Board of Directors
The board is responsible for governing your non-profit. In addition to the basic legal requirements, your board should represent the values and needs of your community. For Native American non-profits, it is important to have board members who are connected to the community, have a passion for the cause, and can bring diverse expertise to the table.
Step 9: Register for State and Local Permits
Depending on your state and the activities your non-profit will be engaged in, you may need to apply for additional permits or licenses, such as:
- Fundraising registration
- Sales tax exemptions (if selling goods)
- Employment-related permits
Check with your state’s government or consult with an attorney to make sure you’re in compliance with all state and local laws.
Step 10: Fundraising and Grant Writing
Once your non-profit is established, fundraising is essential. As a Native American organization, you may have access to unique funding opportunities. Some sources of funding to explore include:
- Government grants: The U.S. government provides grants specifically for Native American tribes and organizations through agencies like the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), Indian Health Service (IHS), and the Administration for Native Americans (ANA).
- Private foundations: Many private foundations provide grants to Native American non-profits for education, culture, land conservation, and economic development.
- Crowdfunding: Websites like GoFundMe, Kickstarter, and others are useful tools for raising funds online.
- Fundraising events: Host local events to raise awareness and funding within your community.
Step 11: Marketing and Outreach
Once your non-profit is operational, you’ll need to get the word out. Consider using the following tools to reach your community and potential donors:
- Social media: Create profiles for your organization on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
- Website: Develop a website to provide information about your non-profit, upcoming events, and ways people can get involved or donate.
- Email newsletters: Regular updates will keep your supporters engaged and informed.
Step 12: Manage and Grow Your Non-Profit
Running a non-profit is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort. You’ll need to:
- Keep detailed records of financial transactions.
- File annual reports with the IRS and state authorities.
- Conduct regular board meetings and maintain communication with the community.
- Evaluate your impact and make adjustments as needed to fulfill your mission.
As a Native American non-profit, you will also play a role in maintaining strong relationships with your tribe, elders, and cultural leaders, making sure your work stays true to your community’s needs.
Key Considerations for Native American Non-Profits:
- Tribal sovereignty: Some Native American communities have unique legal status and governance structures that can affect how your non-profit operates. Be sure to understand the tribal laws and the relationship between the tribe and outside organizations.
- Cultural sensitivity: Always be respectful of the cultural practices, traditions, and values of the Native American communities you serve.
- Collaboration with existing organizations: Many Native American communities already have organizations that are serving similar needs. Make sure your efforts complement and build upon existing initiatives rather than duplicating them.
Starting a non-profit as a Native American is a powerful way to serve your community and create lasting change. By following the steps outlined above, you can create a non-profit that is legally sound, culturally sensitive, and sustainable. Collaboration with your community, understanding the unique legal considerations, and maintaining a strong commitment to your mission will help ensure your non-profit’s success.
Turtle Island Resources 