Chris Caldwell ⋅ Louisville, KY Broadway Baptist Church, Louisville ⋅ 25 years experience

Eddie,

Don't assume the non-profit world is also non-competitive. There are lots of good, well-intentioned people in the non-profit sector, but the funding is often scarce, and the competition to secure that funding can be vigorous. The suggestion of trying to connect with a grant writer is a good one. Also, know that granting organizations typically have a mission/purpose that pretty well directs their funding. You'll need to have a pretty clear idea of what you want to do, and then try to find foundations and others who will consider grant proposals in your area.

Chris

Alan J. Zell ⋅ Portland, OR Attitudes for Selling ⋅ 29 years experience

Eduardo, There are several things you need to consider:
* Being a NFP doesn't mean your venture does not have to make a profit . . . it is called a "positive cash flow' that keeps it going.

* The difference between a traditional business and an NFP is that the NFP does not have to pay taxes on their profit unless they are selling something.

* One needs to contact the IRS to get a NFP designation.

* You are entering a very overcrowded arena as there are ooodles and oodles of people and groups wanting to the same thing.

* For funding, it has to be some of your own money plus money from other sources (family, friends, banks, others) which means you will need a business plan to show them how the money will be spent and if, at some time, there may be a return on their loan. So, my suggestion is to go to SCORE which is a FREE consulting service associated with the US Sm Bus Adm. They can be contacted at www.score.org -- put your zip code or city where you'll be living and you'll get a list of the closest of their 400 offices/chapters in the US.

DAVID PARR ⋅ Roanoke, VA Medical Recovery Services ⋅ 15 years experience

First and foremost, consult a lawyer. You will find one willing to help you on a pro bono basis. Large firms in big cities have contacts.

Aleta Anderson ⋅ Silver Spring, MD All Media Linked ⋅ 20 years experience

Hello and best wishes for an amazing new year! You should check with your local
Small Business Association. The SBA has a wealth of resources for upstarts of every type. Also,
you may find a local chamber of commerce is resourceful when preparing to apply for your non profit status. Go For It!

Huet Sampson ⋅ Philadelphia, PA IBM ⋅ 21 years experience

Reginald,
Thank you for your service. Being a vet, I understand how difficult it may seem making the transition to civilian life and employment. However, its not as hard as you may think. Your IT skills have value and security is a vast and "in demand" field. My company is always interested in quality people. Go to this link and search in your area. There's a good chance you can find something.

http://www-03.ibm.com/employment/?lnk=fpl-care-usen

Emanuel Carpenter ⋅ Alpharetta, GA SDR Master Class ⋅ 20 years experience

Eddie:

It sounds like you're taking on a lot at the same time. I would first make sure there is not a conflict of interest. Then I would work on the business that means the most.

For a non-profit, you might consider the expertise of a grant writer. Grant writers are really detailed proposal writers. They will help you find and apply for all kinds of grants.

You might consider crowdfunding. Check out sites like fundable and indiegogo regarding how you can raise money.

As for the for-profit business, do your market research. Write a business plan. Make sure you have a viable business. Look for incubator programs and programs that help veteran entrepreneurs. Find a SCORE mentor. Go to the Small Business Administration website for info on loans, especially for veterans.

James Mingey ⋅ Oregon City, OR Veterans Business Services ⋅ 25 years experience

Eddie,

Mr. Larson's article link is a gem. I have work with nonprofits and social enterprises most of my working career. I would advise to keep it simple. Even you just start as a profit corp, there's no reason you can't support your "profit centers" out of that entity while you evolve . In the end its all about cash flow. First survive, then fund with any excess.

If your thinking grants for those services be prepared for a slow journey.

I am happy to talk off line

Jim

Nicholas Haffter Von Heide ⋅ Copperas Cove, TX U.S. Army, Specialist ⋅ 4 years served

Hi Eddie,
I have some resources available. I have a coffee business that I started a few years back and support a few specific organizations. Feel free to call me anytime and I wold be happy to assist.

-Nicholas B. Haffter Von Heide
Owner, Point Blank Coffee
SDVOB, OIF Combat Veteran
361.318.5777

Dan Theno ⋅ Green Bay, WI Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association (HBPA) ⋅ 30 years experience

First, establish a business plan, incorporate in your state and establish a framework for governance (such as a Board of Directors). Think about registering with the IRS as a non-profit 501 (C) (4) to be tax exempt and maybe a 501 (C) (3) to accept donations that are tax-deductible for the donor.

Colin hintz ⋅ Auburn, MI U.S. Army, Second Lieutenant ⋅ 10 years served

Hi Eddie,

Focus at first... then expand as ability arise.

I'd like to discuss what you offer to Veterans Eddie; Please call me for a 5-10 minute discussion: 715-254-9208

I'm certain I have some ideas.

Colin