Ask HN: How do I acquire funding for a startup non-profit? | Hacker News Reader

Ask HN: How do I acquire funding for a startup non-profit?

8 pointssuperjared10 comments

It seems that my killer idea is not a fancy new something that will make me millions. In fact, it's quite the opposite: a non-profit. It's unique enough that I am almost sure of its success, though again that doesn't mean my bank account will explode. I suspect even if all goes well I would take a serious hit to my income should I work on it full time.

That said, I do want to work on this full time.

I have never tried getting funding before. Does anyone have any experience or pointers specifically related to a startup non-profit?

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No personal experience with an early-stage non-profit, but it seems like the best way to acquire funding would be to look for government grants or grants from larger non-profits. The government funds a lot of ideas which they don't have the manpower or expertise to implement themselves. Once you have some early work done it should be a lot easier to get donations from the community at large.

Well, as a non-profit start-up it seems like simply asking for money would be easier than for an average start-up. Presumably people are willing to donate, if it's a good cause, and you can base your appeal on the good you'll do, rather than the likelihood that they'll get return on investment.

Have you looked at Pepsi's Refresh Project: http://www.refresheverything.com/

Also, be sure to learn about: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/501(c)

Approaching corporate foundations might be a good start. If you have a compelling idea, they have deep pockets, and your success would reflect positively on the overall organization (e.g. MicroPlace at eBay)

Can you be more specific about what the idea is ?

I assume you're not worried about someone stealing the idea and it'll help us point you to appropriate sources of funding.

I was CTO of an early-stage non-profit for a year and can provide some insight into how they went about raising money, feel free to email me.

early-stage non-profit? What does that mean (curious)?

Hone your grant writing skills.

Cheers

Yes. You will not get funding. You'll get grants.

Become a for-profit : ).

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