{"id":111393,"date":"2024-01-16T07:59:02","date_gmt":"2024-01-16T11:59:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.onboardmeetings.com\/?p=111393"},"modified":"2024-01-16T15:34:54","modified_gmt":"2024-01-16T19:34:54","slug":"how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-pennsylvania","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.onboardmeetings.com\/blog\/how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-pennsylvania\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Start a Nonprofit in Pennsylvania (Step-by-Step)"},"content":{"rendered":"Reading Time: <\/span> 4<\/span> minutes<\/span><\/span>\t\t
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Starting a nonprofit in Pennsylvania offers a compelling mission for those driven by the desire to address community needs, actively contribute to the betterment of society, and foster change.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

If you\u2019re planning to start a nonprofit organization, it\u2019s important to understand the necessary steps, including <\/span>fundraising<\/span><\/a>, recruiting a board of directors, and filing critical regulatory documents.<\/span><\/p>

Read on to learn the steps for starting a nonprofit in the Keystone State.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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What is a Nonprofit?<\/h2>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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A nonprofit organization (NPO) is an entity formed to pursue a specific mission or purpose that benefits the public, a particular group, or the community at large.<\/b><\/p>

These entities often include educational institutions, advocacy groups, and charities. Nonprofits play a vital role in addressing societal issues and promoting change, focusing on a positive mission rather than financial gain.\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\tBoard Meeting<\/span>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Ensure effective, efficient meetings with our comprehensive Board Meeting Agenda Template.<\/h2>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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How to Start a Nonprofit in Pennsylvania<\/h2>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Each state has specific requirements for starting and operating a nonprofit.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

In Pennsylvania, it’s crucial to be aware of the tax-exempt <\/span>501(c)(3) requirements<\/span><\/a>. In addition to following the steps listed below and understanding tax laws surrounding nonprofits, you\u2019ll also want to consider how <\/span>meeting software<\/span><\/a>, such as OnBoard, helps nonprofits operate efficiently while improving regulatory compliance. Read on to learn more about how to start a nonprofit in Pennsylvania.<\/span><\/p>

1. Name Your Organization<\/strong><\/h3>

The name of any business or nonprofit plays a critical role in its overall identity by members of the public. A well-chosen name conveys your nonprofit’s mission and values and also provides a lasting impression on potential supporters. Doctors Without Borders is a great example of a nonprofit name that exudes professionalism and compassion, while clearly stating their purpose.<\/span><\/p>

2. Recruit a Board of Directors<\/strong><\/h3>

A <\/span>board of directors<\/span><\/a> is a group of individuals responsible for guiding and overseeing the nonprofit’s activities. Boards typically consist of a chair\/president, vice president, secretary, fundraising chair, community outreach chair, and other roles that suit its specific mission. Recruiting professionals with diverse backgrounds can help the nonprofit stay true to its mission, remain financially accountable, and enjoy good standing with its beneficiaries. A successful board of directors will contribute to the nonprofit’s long-term success and positive impact on the community.<\/span><\/p>

3. File Articles of Incorporation<\/strong><\/h3>

Every legal entity must file formal documents to establish its existence. These documents are called the articles of incorporation and provide key details, such as the organization’s name, purpose, location, board structure, and officers. They also serve as a contract between the nonprofit and the state that defines its legal structure. In Pennsylvania, articles of incorporation must be filed with the <\/span>Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>

4. Obtain Employer Identification Number<\/strong><\/h3>

An employer identification number (EIN) is a unique identifier for all businesses, similar to a social security number. It\u2019s used for various purposes, such as for tax filing, opening business bank accounts, and managing payroll. An EIN is important for nonprofits since they\u2019re tax-exempt and have specifications when complying with federal reporting requirements. Understanding section <\/span>501(c)(3) versus 501(c)(4)<\/span><\/a> of the internal revenue code will give you better insight into how nonprofits operate.<\/span><\/p>

5. Establish Governing Documents and Policies<\/span><\/h3>

As your nonprofit begins to take off, it’s important to create governing documents and policies to provide a clear framework for operations, ensure legal compliance, and form an organized structure. Board bylaws lay out these components, which include:<\/span><\/p>