How to Start a Non-Profit Organization in Delaware

A non-profit organization is an organization that is formed to serve a greater cause and does not function to make a profit. Funds that are generated by a non-profit are not distributed to the officers and members of the organization. A non-profit organization can be a corporation or an individual company such as personal contributions made to charities and foundations formed to assist children and the community. Delaware has many available resources to assist and streamline the process for starting a non-profit organization.

Step 1

Create a mission statement that will detail the organization's purpose and objectives for existence. The mission statement will also serve as a blueprint for your core set of members to follow.

Step 2

Visit the Delaware Association of Non-Profit Agencies (DANA) website. DANA was developed to assist individuals to start a non-profit. They also offer training and resources such as assistance with filing incorporation paperwork with the state, establishing by-laws, creating job descriptions, fundraisers and website development.

Step 3

Click on DANA's Info Central tab on the website. Select "Non Profit Start-up" from drop-down box. Answer questions 1 and 2 regarding things to consider prior to starting a non-profit and alternatives to starting a non-profit (see Resources). A non-profit organization requires hard work and commitment. DANA emphasizes the importance of researching all options before starting your organization.

Step 4

Click on DANA's Education tab and enroll in DANA's Non-profit Development Director Training Workshop. This workshop will provide you with information on how to raise money for your non-profit organization.

Step 5

Solicit qualified individuals for your Board of Directors. The role of the Board of Directors is to provide advice and oversee the organization's overall activities.

Step 6

File your Certificate of Incorporation with the Delaware Division of Corporations (see Resources). A Certificate of Incorporation is a legal document that certifies your non-profit organization's registry with the Delaware Secretary of State. There is an $89.00 filing fee.

Step 7

Establish Corporate By-Laws and file them with the Delaware Division of Corporations (see Resources). Your Corporate By-Laws will serve as a business plan, it will define the roles and responsibilities of your Board of Directors and how your non-profit day to day business will be conducted.

Step 8

Hold a Board Meeting. A Board Meeting must be held in order to make your non-profit organization official. The purpose of the board meeting is to formally elect the Board of Directors, Officers and to officially instate the Corporate By-Laws.