“Those who are lifting the world upward and onward are those who encourage more than criticize.” – Elizabeth Harrison

This quote fits the nonprofit community so well. In fact, many nonprofits begin as a result of a strong passion to bring about change, a.k.a. a Mission. However, once this passion results in the creation of an organization, reality often sets in soon after that – “OMG, I’m actually running a business!” In fact, many startup nonprofit founders aren’t the most business savvy folks; they typically just have a BIG heart and lots of compassion for those in need. This isn’t criticism by the way, but it is reality…and that’s OK; the world needs more of this. Of course, this is where a strong board of advisors helps!

As such, I’ve created a categorized list of small business solutions and online resources that is designed to help these big-hearted folks start off on the right foot with affordable, viable business software systems. Of course, this is not a comprehensive list, but for the most part these references represent many of the systems that I either see nonprofits using or know that they should at least be considering.

Office Suite

• Open Office
• Google Docs, Gmail
• iWork by Apple

 Website/Blog

• WordPress
• DreamHost
• Grassroots

 Data Backup, Storage

• MozyPro, Carbonite, iDrive
• Dropbox, Box.net (works with LinkedIN too)

 Donor Database

• GiftWorks
• Sage Fundraising Online by @SageNonprofit
• eTapestry by @Blackbaud
• DoJiggy

 Resources

• TechSoup Blog, @TechSoup
• GuideStar Blogs, @GuideStar
• NTEN Blog, @NTENOrg
• IdealWare, @IdealWare
• LinkedIN Groups
  • Nonprofit Professionals Forum
  • Nonprofit Technology Network
  • Some of my fav Twitter follows:
    • @501Connect (St. Louis, MO area)
    • @GreenlightsATX (Austin, Tx area)
    • @daveiam, @NPFilm (Austin, Tx area)
    • @fdncenter
    • @npquarterly

This list is virtually endless – i.e. Collaboration, App Store tools, Accounting, Project Management, Grants Management, Webcasts, Phone systems, and so on.

What I want to leave you with is this…as you share your passion with your relevant community, and then realize that there’s a business to run too, then be sure and 1) create a plan, 2) ask for help, 3) and document your needs by priority level. You may need to invest some startup capital early on, but if you’re committed to the long-term life of the organization then this investment will return dividends many times throughout your history.

If I can help as a resource, Contact me so we can explore the possibilities. All the best in “doing good.”

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