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Where to get started?

Where to get started?

Looking to learn about the basic steps in getting your nonprofit journalism organization launched? Check out this handy list of tips by one nonprofit news organization and how they acquired their nonprofit status and hit the ground running.

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Starting a Nonprofit

 

This section features helpful resources for starting a nonprofit journalism organization from helpful tax and legal documentation to sample collateral to editorial guidelines. Jump in and explore!

The Digital Media Law Project formerly known as the Citizen Media Law Project, has launched a guide to help journalism organizations understand IRS processes when applying for 501(c)(3) status. You can download the Guide to IRS Decision-Making Process (PDF) here.

IRS Brochure for Start-up Non-Profits (PDF) Find out the steps necessary to get your nonprofit status with the Internal Revenue Service.

Top 10 Rules for Limiting Legal Risk This online module by the Knight Citizen News Network provides a list of handy tips to help nonprofit journalism organizations think about legal issues that can arise as part of their day-to-day work.

Media Kit Example (PDF) Check out this example from the voiceofsandiego.org for ideas on how to make your own media kit for your news organization.

Ethical Guidelines and Style Guide Example (PDF) Ethics and style are important components to any news operation. Establishing guidelines in the beginning is the best step to take. Check out this example for ideas for making your own guidebook.

Knight Citizen News Network: Launching a Nonprofit News Site Learning Module Provides steps on how to get started with creating a nonprofit news website.

News Site in A Box Do you want to create a nonprofit news website? Are you uncertain of where to start and what to do? This online module provides the steps you need to get started.

Getting Started Tips

>> Don’t wait until the day of your launch to make your first announcement. Map out a plan to create buzz in the months, weeks, and days leading up to launch.
   By Laura McGann
   Source: http://bit.ly/dqKfIj

>> Purchase business liability, workers comp, internet liability, directors & officers liability insurance, file fictitious name statement in newspaper.  Create personnel policies and find a good payroll service.  Shop for and select employee benefits (health insurance, etc.). 

>> Complete IRS Form 1023, Application for Recognition of Exemption (see Exhibit B attached).

>> Apply for a Federal Employer Tax ID # (EIN).  This can be done online at www.irs.gov.