Nonprofit 101
Websites and books that cover the basics of starting and running a nonprofit organization.
List maintained by librarians at The Seattle Public Library. Updated August 2025.
-
How do I start a nonprofit organization? - Candid Learning
Starting a nonprofit may take years of effort and a great deal of determination. Understand these six key steps on how to start a nonprofit before moving forward.
View How do I start a nonprofit organization? - Candid Learning -
Starting a Nonprofit and Fiscal Sponsorship - 501 Commons
Information from the state's nonprofit resource organization, 501 Commons, about starting a nonprofit. Includes 501 Commons' 'Starting a Nonprofit Organization Guide.'
View Starting a Nonprofit and Fiscal Sponsorship - 501 Commons -
Nonprofit Fundamentals - Nonprofit Association of Washington
Nonprofit Association of Washington has developed nonprofit fundamentals designed to strengthen your organization’s performance and decision-making. Sign up for one or more of these ongoing training sessions as a live webinar or in-person class, or view the recordings and download additional resources in our Learning Library.
View Nonprofit Fundamentals - Nonprofit Association of Washington -
Resources for Nonprofit and Community-Based Organizations – Communities Rise
This page provides guides, sample policies, state compliance resources, and checklists for nonprofits and community-based organizations of all sizes.
View Resources for Nonprofit and Community-Based Organizations – Communities Rise -
Washington Nonprofit Handbook 2022
For those seeking guidance in how to start and manage a Washington nonprofit, the Nonprofit Handbook published by Communities Rise provides valuable insight. This book is a practical resource for anyone considering forming an organization that will benefit their neighbors, or looking to wind down the affairs of a nonprofit corporation. It outlines management standards and offers tips for how nonprofit leaders can stay in compliance with the laws and develop their organizations.
View Washington Nonprofit Handbook 2022 -
Starting a Nonprofit - Candid eBook Library
Browse, borrow, and enjoy titles from the Candid digital collection. Get a free Candid library card by clicking on "Sign in" then "User ID help." Candid's collection includes books about nonprofits, philanthropy, social justice, and more. This link will take you straight to the collection of eBooks about starting a nonprofit.
View Starting a Nonprofit - Candid eBook Library -
Starting & Building A Nonprofit
"This essential guide to starting and running a nonprofit organization includes practical advice, legal information, tips, and step-by-step instructions. It explains how to develop a strategic plan and budget; recruit and manage board members, volunteers, and staff; market an organization to a target audience; raise money-including traditional methods and crowdfunding; build a website and use social media strategically; and adopt policies that are legally sound. Includes helpful checklists and a sample annual budget."
Format: Book
Availability: All copies in use
View Starting & Building A Nonprofit -
How to Form A Nonprofit Corporation
"Learn how to form a nonprofit corporation in any state and gain 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status with the IRS. Includes step-by-step instructions for both IRS Form 1023 and the streamlined Form 1023-EZ federal tax-exemption application. Learn to choose a legal name; prepare articles of incorporation; create your bylaws; obtain federal and state tax-exempt status; prepare minutes for your organizational meeting; and, establish a corporate records book."
Format: Book
Availability: Available
View How to Form A Nonprofit Corporation -
Nonprofit Kit
"[This] fills your 501(c)(3) toolbox with the tips, strategies, and techniques you need to get the most out of your public charity. From management practices to tax exemptions, fundraising tactics, and grand proposals, this straightforward, hands-on guide provides insight and practical advice for nonprofit founders, directors, managers, and volunteers."
Format: Book
Availability: Available
View Nonprofit Kit -
Nonprofit Management All-in-one for Dummies
"This beginner-friendly reference helps replace your shelf of nonprofit how-to books with a single reference to answer your questions on how to manage a mission-focused organization, build budgets, and raise funds while staying within the confines of the laws governing nonprofits. You'll also find advice on valuable skills like marketing that benefit your organization."
Format: eBook
View Nonprofit Management All-in-one for Dummies