Alternatives to Starting a Non-Profit Organization

If you are looking to participate in conservation efforts and starting a non-profit is too big of a commitment, then here are five alternatives to starting a non-profit.

1. Volunteer for a program

Committed volunteers are always in high demand, and if you are prepared to be a good volunteer, you can make a tremendous difference, while broadening your knowledge of nonprofits and other skills. Even if you can’t find an organization that exactly matches your passion, volunteering will give you a wealth of behind-the-scenes knowledge to running your own.

2. Raise funds for a program

Any nonprofit would be thrilled to have a high-quality event set up and run for them, as events take a lot of time and energy. This frees up the organization to focus on their mission.

3. Develop a business to benefit a cause

You don’t have to set up a nonprofit organization to be charitable. Setting up a for-profit business to make money with your skills might be a great option. Starting a business is much simpler than starting a nonprofit and gives you a lot more flexibility. You can promote your donations as part of your sales pitch.

4. Fiscal Sponsor

Once you have nonprofit experience but haven’t found an existing program providing the services you see a need for in the community, you can take the step of finding a fiscal sponsor. A fiscal sponsor allows you to use their 501(c)(3) status, agreeing to oversee your work and ensure it is a well-run project. Your first step is to find an organization that closely aligns with your mission. When you go to talk to them, you’ll need to be prepared to explain how your new project will benefit their existing organization. Expect to answer a lot of questions about your plans, and that the organization will need to charge you a fee to cover the added costs they will have for overseeing your project. It may seem like an extra cost, but in reality, a fiscal sponsor will save you quite a bit of time and money over starting your own organization.

5. Start a chapter or affiliate of a national nonprofit organization

Some organizations have chapters throughout the country, but there might not be one in your state or community yet. The national group will have stipulations about what you can and can’t do, but they also bring huge advantages like already created marketing materials, policies and procedures, and name recognition, so you start out with many people already knowing what you do.