Starting a Non-profit
From a document I found online , the first step when starting a non-profit in Virginia would be determining a name for one's Organization. This seems to be a logical first step. Upon deciding the name, checking for availability is second. There were 2 websites listed to check for names trademarked: http://tmsearch.uspto.gov/bin/gate.exe?f=tess&state=4806:4tp3vy.1.1 & https://sccefile.scc.virginia.gov/NameAvailability The next step the document list is choosing a Board of Directors; however, I feel before forming a board the mission and vision statement should be completed. After the Board of Directors are selected, Completing and signing the Articles of Incorporation is priority. Here is a link to Virginia's specific form. There is a fee attached to this step; the filling fees chart can be found here .writing the non-profit's. Drafting the By Laws are next. It is suggested in the publication to seek legal advice during the By Laws and Articles of Incorporation.
