CNM provides the following as a way for you to track your progress through the start-up process:

► Has a unique name been selected?

► Have state articles of incorporation been filed? Forms are available from the Tennessee Secretary of State at 615.741.2286.

► Have publication 557 (Tax exempt status for your organization), Form 1023 and instructions, Form 872-C, and Form 8718 been obtained from the IRS (Use Form SS-4)?

► Have you applied for your State Charitable Solicitations Permit?

► Has a mission statement been developed?

► Has a narrative of your services been developed?

► Have by-laws been developed?

► Do you intend to engage in political activities or lobbying as part of your services?

► Has a board of directors been developed?

► Have the sources of funds and volunteers been identified? Will you engage in unrelated activities which will generate revenue?

► Has a plan for fundraising been developed?

► Has paid staff, if any, been hired?

► Have all with special interests and relationships been identified?

► Has a financial history (3 years) and projection been developed, and has a balance sheet been prepared?

► Has an application been made to the Tennessee Department of Revenue? (A copy of the IRS letter of determination is required.)

Click here for information on CNM's Starting a Nonprofit Workshop

Click here to find out more information on CNM's Consultants