Research Guides: Start Your Own Nonprofit or Social Enterprise: Get Started

What is a Nonprofit Organization?

A nonprofit is an organization that qualifies for tax-exempt status under the regulations outlined by the Internal Revenue Code.

Nonprofits include organizations focused on issues such as health, education, human rights, the environment, children, senior citizens, peace, science, religion, and consumer protection.

Click here to view the IRS 501(c)(3) exemption requirements.

What is a Social Enterprise?

A social enterprise or social entrepreneurship is a for-profit business that directly addresses social issues and has a positive impact on local communities, society, or the world.

SERVE: Social Impact Program
The WCC Entrepreneurship Center's program to support social impact entrepreneurs.
B Corporation
B Corps are for-profit companies certified by the nonprofit B Lab to meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.
Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship
Advances social entrepreneurs through events, research, and work with academic institutions.
Social Enterprise Alliance
A national membership organization for social enterprises offering workshops, webinars, a free online resource center, and more.

"4 Vital Areas for Creating a Thriving Social Impact Business" webinar with WCC Entrepreneurship Center Entrepreneur-In-Residence Millie Chu of Global Entrepreneurship Business Lab.

" Demystifying Grants and Crowdfunding" with WCC Entrepreneurship Center Entrepreneur-in-Residence and Environmental Artist Leslie Sobel.

Nonprofit & Social Entrepreneurship Business Model Planning

Social Business Model Canvas
A useful graphic organizer for business and strategic planning.
Community Toolbox
Help and resources on assessing community needs and resources, addressing social determinants of health, engaging stakeholders, action planning, building leadership, improving cultural competency, planning an evaluation, and sustaining your efforts over time.

Local Resources

Good for Michigan
"Good For Michigan brings together and recognizes companies across Michigan that are making a positive impact on their employees, their community, and the environment. "
Michigan Nonprofit Association
Michigan Nonprofit Association is a statewide membership organization dedicated to serving the diverse nonprofit sector through civic engagement, capacity-building, data and technology, training, and advocacy.
NEW: Solutions for Nonprofits
NEW works with nonprofit organization to craft solutions and create pathways to success. NEW offers expert consultation, education, support and resources to ensure every phase of your organization’s operations is effectively geared toward achieving your mission.
NEW: Solutions for Nonprofits - Starting Your Nonprofit Video Series
This video series demystifies the start-up process, offers step-by-step guidance, and answers common questions. $25 for online access.
SERVE: Social Impact Program
The WCC Entrepreneurship Center's program to support social impact entrepreneurs.
Starting a Nonprofit from Michigan Nonprofit Association
Information helpful to groups incorporating a public charity in Michigan and applying for 501(c)(3) status

Trade Journals

Nonprofit Trade Journals

Nonprofit Times - Michigan eLibrary
News and "how to" information on funding and management for any nonprofit organization. Available to all Michigan residents.
Chronicle of Philanthropy - Michigan eLibrary
Provides news & information for fund raisers, professional employees of foundation, corporate grant makers, & people who work for nonprofit, tax exempt organizations in health, education, religion, the arts, & social services. Available to all Michigan residents.
Stanford Social Innovation Review - Michigan eLibrary
Presents the best ideas in nonprofit management, philanthropy & corporate citizenship. Available to all Michigan residents.

Social Enterprise Trade Journals

Journal of Social Entrepreneurship - Michigan eLibrary
Covers social entrepreneurship and social innovation across a range of sectors and cultural settings. Available to all Michigan residents.
See Change - The Magazine of Social Entrepreneurship
A digital magazine with companion podcast seeking to inform, educate, and inspire social entrepreneurs.
Stanford Social Innovation Review - Michigan eLibrary
Presents the best ideas in nonprofit management, philanthropy & corporate citizenship. Available to all Michigan residents.