Starting a Private Foundation
The Internal Revenue Service classifies every exempt charitable organization as either a public charity or a private foundation. There are three different types of foundations: standard private, private operating, and pass-through or conduit. Different regulations apply to each type.
Determine if a Private Foundation is Right for You
- Nonprofit Sector 101
- What’s the difference between a public charity and a private foundation?
- What if I want to start a public charity?
- Life Cycle of a Public Charity/Private Foundation, from the IRS
- Types of Grantmakers, from the Forum of Regional Associations of Grantmakers
Consider Starting Small
- The Importance of Small Foundations
- Reasons for Establishing a Foundation, survey data from ASF members
- Voices of Philanthropy, three short videos featuring small foundations
Get Started With ASF Resources
- Download How to Start a Private Foundation, a FREE primer for an “A to Z” overview on starting a private foundation
- Search the Professional Directory of Foundation Advisors for an accountant, attorney, investment specialist, consultant, or resource organization
- Read Basic Legal Concepts Every Foundation Manager Should Know
- Watch Stories of Getting Started, two small foundations reflect on entering the world of foundation giving
Top-selling ASF Publications
- The Foundation Guidebook
- Legal Essentials for Small Foundations
- Setting Up a Small Foundation Office
Links
- Getting Started from SmartLink, a project of Neighborhood Funders Group
- Sate-by-state information on nonprofit incorporation and charitable activities
- Starting Small from The Philanthropy Roundtable
Get started with ASF's top-selling publication, The Foundation Guidebook
“Having a clear mission and guidelines that address our areas of funding and the process in which to apply... saves time, helps us to stay focused, and keeps us in line with the founder's vision.”