DIY Founder: How To Start A Nonprofit From Scratch
So, you want to start a nonprofit? Welcome to the wild, rewarding, and often overwhelming world of social impact. Whether you’re fueled by a personal experience, a deep passion for a cause, or just tired of waiting for someone else to solve a problem—you’re in the right place.
When I tell my story about how I started NotJustYou, I always start with: “I like to call myself a DIY founder.” And that’s because, honestly? I was winging it—me, Google, and a whole lot of trial and error. I’d literally type “how to start a nonprofit… Canada” into the search bar and follow whatever instructions I found. It led me down a path of many mistakes, but eventually, many triumphs too. I figured things out the hard way—making financial missteps, learning about governance on the fly, and slowly piecing together a sustainable organization.
But now? I don’t want you to have to DIY this journey.
This DIY Founder series is for the dreamers who are ready to do the work. Starting a nonprofit from scratch means figuring things out as you go, making mistakes (sometimes expensive ones—ask me how I know), and learning how to turn passion into structure, funding, and real impact.
This series is designed to break down the process step by step—from getting your paperwork in order to building relationships that will sustain your mission. So far, we’ve covered:
Establishment: The legal must-haves and the branding that makes you look legit.
Sweat Equity: How to make things happen before the funding rolls in.
Making Your Mark: Why your first impression as an organization matters.
Value-Based Experiences: Creating programming and events that actually attract people.
Planning a Strong Launch: Setting up your nonprofit’s first big public moment.
Social Equity: Leveraging relationships as one of your strongest assets.
The Power of Media Coverage: Why documentation is just as important as the work itself.
And trust me, this series is just getting started. As I continue learning, growing, and refining NotJustYou, I’ll be sharing the insights, mistakes, and lessons that can help you build something sustainable and impactful.
Starting a nonprofit isn’t just about doing good—it’s about doing it well. Let’s get to work.
Succeed With Me
I believe most people are only three steps away from establishing a personal and professional brand that they love. Book a success session with me to get started with 1:1 consulting that helps you achieve your craziest dreams.
