"I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears, and sweat" Winston Churchill

People we speak to about starting a nonprofit tell us how they don't think they are equipped to start or lead a nonprofit. They feel inadequate. We can certainly relate to those feelings of inadequacy. 

However, recognizing what you DO have, the skills you DO have, and the passion you feel for a cause is really all you need. It's the best starting point. 

For instance, you know how to create spreadsheets? Great. You won't need to find a volunteer who can do that. 

A marketing background? Great. That's another need filled.

You don't have a clue about how to raise money? You know someone who does have that experience. How do you find that person? 1. Look around you. Are there fund raising efforts at your children's school? Who leads those efforts? Does your church raise money? Who heads up that effort? Other nonprofits in your area that are being successful fund raisers? Meet with them and ask them for help. They might be willing to mentor you. 2. Run an inexpensive social media ad asking for a vounteer to help you. Sometimes a mentor is of greater value than someone who can do it for you. 

In literally every case, you know someone who can help you in areas where you and the organization's board of directors lack a particular skill. 

Even though your organization will have needs, you do not have to do everything yourself. Yes, you will have to give a lot but help is out there. Keep looking for it.