If your passion is to inspire, make a difference and give back to the world, then starting a non-profit is an exciting entrepreneurial proposition.

But before you start there are a few things to consider.

Starting a non-profit organization (NPO) is similar to starting any kind of business - together with commitment you need a clear objective, a niche (i.e. an original, unclaimed idea) and a communicable business plan to present to your donors.

You'll also need to understand how to structure your non-profit, what tax exemptions you may qualify for, as well as how you can obtain government grants.

Here is a basic checklist for how to start a non-profit organization:

Do Your Market Research - With over 1.4 million non-profits nationwide, can you state categorically that your chosen non-profit niche is unique? Here are some examples of questions you should be asking yourself to help identify your niche and whether there is a market need. You can also research existing nonprofits at guidestar.org.

Write a Business Plan - Since a non-profit is simply another version of a business, you'll need to develop a solid business plan and steer its implementation. A business plan is essential for procuring non-profit funding from donors and the government, and can also help you recruit volunteers and board members. Get help with your non-profit business plan here. 

Incorporate Your Non-Profit - Becoming a non-profit corporation requires some paperwork, but for many groups the benefits of non-profit status - such as 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status - outweigh the complications. 

Incorporation for non-profits is very similar to creating a regular corporation except that you have to take the extra steps of applying for tax-exempt status with the IRS and their state tax division.

Here are the steps you should take to incorporate your non-profit:

• Choose a Business Name - Get state-by-state information on the various laws that apply to naming a non-profit in your state.

• File your Incorporation Paperwork - You must next file formal paperwork, or articles of incorporation, and pay a small filing fee to your state. These "articles" contain basic structural information, such as the NPO's name, its registered agent and office address, and the corporation's membership structure, if any. Again, you can find information about filing these articles of incorporation by state through the National Association of State Charity Officials(NASCO)

• Apply for Non-Profit Federal and State Tax Exemptions - Once you've received a copy of your article of incorporation from your state you are ready to submit an application to the IRS for your federal non-profit status as a 501(c)(3) organization. It's best to file within 27 months after the date of your incorporation. Refer to this Non-Profit Organization Tax Guide  for more information on what, and how, to file.

• Create Corporate Bylaws - These are the operating rules for your non-profit corporation. 

• Appoint Initial Directors and Hold your First Board Meeting - Some states require that you appoint directors before filing your articles of incorporation. 

• Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits - To determine what licenses you need, use this license and permit online tool f

Start Fundraising - Now that your NPO is officially established you'll need to pay attention to its bread and butter - fundraising. While individual donors amount to the largest contributors to NPOs, federal and state and local governments offer grants, loans and programs to fund NPO projects. Check out these resources to find funding for your non-profit:

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