What do I have to do to set up a Non Profit company?

The Foundation Center, http://www.foundationcenter.org has some great resources that walk you through starting your own nonprofit organization, including an online tutorial, and some other information that would be very helpful. Best of luck to you!

First determine what type of non-profit you wish to start. Contact the IRS and ask for an application for non-profit status and when it arrives fill it out. Depending on the type you will be required to form a structure within which the organization will exist. i.e. A school, such as your local religiously sponsored school or a Charter school is a non-profit--the organization which provides a shelter or food for the homeless or battered women. These organizations have different IRS designations, schools are 501c4 and shelters are 501c3's. Each designation requires a lengthy application process, however in most cases you may begin operations with a letter from the IRS saying application has been made.

Almost all 501's require a Board of Directors, Statement of Goals and operating procedures and a host of other steps. Don't be discouraged. It sounds more complicated than it is, but if you can find someone who has done it before that person can keep you sane during the process. Good Luck.

Elle