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Office Hours are back. Every Tuesday, rotating venues across Birmingham.

Birmingham nonprofit leaders convening to discuss mission-driven work

Nonprofit Hub

Nonprofit Resource Hub

Start, grow, and sustain your mission.

A dedicated track of resources, programs, and partners for mission-driven organizations across Alabama.

Find Your Resources

Let AI match you with the best nonprofit resources in Alabama and Greater Birmingham.

Nonprofit Formation

Start Your Nonprofit in Alabama

Starting a nonprofit requires a strong foundation. Our toolkit includes resources for incorporation, IRS 501(c)(3) recognition, and ongoing compliance.

Nonprofit Formation Requires Special Attention

Unlike for-profit businesses, nonprofits have specific legal requirements for charitable purposes, governance, and ongoing compliance.

Nonprofit Formation Process

1

Define Your Mission and Purpose

Clearly articulate your charitable purpose and identify the community need you'll address.

2

Choose Your Board of Directors

Recruit at least 3 committed board members with diverse skills and community connections.

3

File Articles of Incorporation

Incorporate your nonprofit with the Alabama Secretary of State using nonprofit-specific language.

4

Create Corporate Bylaws

Establish governance structure, board procedures, and organizational policies.

5

Obtain Federal EIN

Apply for your Employer Identification Number with the IRS for tax and banking purposes.

6

Apply for 501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Status

Submit Form 1023 or 1023-EZ to the IRS to gain federal tax-exempt status.

7

Register with Alabama Attorney General

Register as a charitable organization if you plan to solicit donations in Alabama.

8

Set Up Banking and Accounting

Establish nonprofit banking relationships and accounting systems for financial management.

9

Maintain Ongoing Compliance

Stay compliant with annual IRS filings, state reports, and proper governance practices.

Essential Nonprofit Resources

State Filing

Alabama Secretary of State

Nonprofit corporation formation and registration

Federal Tax Status

IRS Tax-Exempt Organizations

Federal tax-exempt status application and compliance

State Registration

Alabama Attorney General

Charitable organization registration and oversight

Local Support

Alabama Association for Nonprofits

Local support and training for Alabama nonprofit leaders