The Clinton, Camanche, and Fulton area is home to a number of great non-profit businesses helping people in our communities. Learn more about these nonprofits here.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
How to Establish a 501(c)(3)
In both states, creating a non-profit is fairly easy. You need to file articles of incorporation with the Iowa or Illinois Secretary of State. Then you hold an organizational meeting and adopt bylaws. Then there is a separate process to apply to the IRS to receive tax-exempt status.
Other steps you need to take include creating a mission statement, a vision statement, and a strategic plan. Make sure you follow filing guidelines, and if you earn under $50,000 a year, check that you can file a postcard electronically with the IRS.
Board Tools
A key to a successful nonprofit is an engaged and vested board. Don’t worry; every nonprofit struggles with how best to motivate its board.
The board is the fiduciary agent for your organization, provides oversight and governance, and helps the leadership execute the strategic plan.
Fundraising Tips
From a community visioning project, Energize Clinton has developed a list of projects the community wants to see happen.
Grants
There are many local foundations, with the CCDA grant being the largest. However, the University of Iowa has a great grant bulletin board that we highly recommend. Grant Writing 101 is easy; only you know how to tell your story, and that is the blessing and the curse.
Act as if the reviewer knows nothing about your organization, acronyms, or project. Treat it like a research paper; try to quantify as much as you can. Have passion. If you don’t care, why should they?
Sign up for the monthly Fund Alert emails from ECIA. The monthly emails feature funding sources from corporate to local foundations, along with due dates. ECIA offers many resources for nonprofits, including assistance with grant writing. Fees are based on the work needed to complete the grant.
