About this seminar:

Starting and sustaining a nonprofit organization in 2026 requires more than a strong mission. It requires a clear understanding of today’s legal, political, and funding landscape. As nonprofit organizations face increased scrutiny, shifting regulations, and funding uncertainty, the need for thoughtful planning, strong governance, and compliant operations has never been more important, even as community needs continue to grow.

This introductory virtual seminar provides a practical overview of the legal, programmatic, and organizational fundamentals needed to launch and sustain a nonprofit organization. Participants will explore best practices for designing effective programs, building a well-functioning board, developing a fundraising strategy, and navigating the legal requirements of forming a California nonprofit and applying for tax-exempt status. The session also addresses ongoing compliance responsibilities and risk considerations, including alternatives such as fiscal sponsorship.

Participants will walk away with resources, templates, tools, and tips on topics most critical to planning, forming, and growing a new nonprofit organization.

Key Takeaways:

• Strategic Planning and Program Development: Understanding the Why, the Mission, Goals/Objectives, the Organizational Assessment, and Evaluating Impact.
• Governance and Board Development: Legal board requirements, governance responsibilities, and building an engaged, effective board.
• Resource Development in Today’s Environment: Exploring approaches to fundraising strategy in the context of economic uncertainty, evolving grant priorities, and changing donor expectations.
• Legal Formation, Compliance, and Risk Awareness: Forming a California nonprofit corporation, applying for tax exemption, understanding ongoing compliance obligations, and exploring fiscal sponsorship as an alternative pathway.

Who Should Attend:

This seminar is designed for individuals exploring the formation of a new nonprofit organization, including community leaders, advocates, and social impact sector professionals.

Registration Fee:

• General Admission: $45
• Read CNM’s Refund Policy

Scholarships:

If you are a CNM Member or Scholarship Recipient, please send an email to [email protected] to receive your discount code.

Instructors

Laura Skadhauge Bloom –Staff Attorney, Public Counsel

Laura is a staff attorney with Public Counsel’s Community Development Project where she provides trainings and direct legal services to nonprofits serving low-income communities in Los Angeles. She focuses on nonprofit formation, governance, and fiscal sponsorship. Prior to working at Public Counsel, Laura worked in the United Kingdom as part of a human rights advocacy group before returning to her home of Los Angeles where she provided legal services to those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Laura graduated from Claremont McKenna College and UCLA School of Law.

Alicia K. Avalos – Sr. Learning Integration Manager, Center for Nonprofit Management

A native Angeleno, Alicia has 22 years of leadership experience in city government and several social service agencies, directing successful programs including Summer Night Lights. Most recently at Chrysalis, she was a Program Manager for a rapid rehousing program providing employment services to those who were justice-involved. At CNM, she supports the client services staff, leads client contact and service activities, and maintains good relationships with clients and colleagues. Her dual background in city government and nonprofit program management gives her experience in managing project development and implementation. Alicia holds a BA in Communications & Fine Arts from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, CA.