501(c)(3) Setup Roadmap

A comprehensive guide for establishing PrinterSpecialists.org as a tax-exempt nonprofit and securing Google Ad Grants.

Phase 1: Foundation (Months 1-2)

In Progress

Incorporate in Maryland as a nonprofit corporation
Obtain EIN from IRS (Form SS-4)
Draft Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws
Appoint initial Board of Directors (minimum 3 members)
Open nonprofit bank account
Register with Maryland SDAT
Build and launch PrinterSpecialists.org website
Establish mission statement and organizational purpose

Phase 2: IRS Application (Months 2-4)

Upcoming

Prepare IRS Form 1023 or 1023-EZ for 501(c)(3) status
Draft narrative description of activities
Prepare financial projections (3-year budget)
Compile board member information and conflict-of-interest policies
Submit application with filing fee ($275 for 1023-EZ, $600 for full 1023)
Respond to any IRS follow-up questions

Phase 3: Google Ad Grants (Months 4-6)

Upcoming

Receive IRS determination letter
Register with TechSoup for nonprofit verification
Apply for Google for Nonprofits account
Complete Google Ad Grants application
Set up Google Ads account with compliant campaigns
Ensure website meets Ad Grants quality standards (HTTPS, mobile, content)
Launch first ad campaigns targeting printer service keywords

Phase 4: Growth & Operations (Months 6-12)

Upcoming

Recruit founding members and populate directory
Launch Stripe-based membership payment system
Implement lead generation and distribution system
Register for Maryland charitable solicitation (if required)
File initial IRS Form 990 (or 990-N for <$50K revenue)
Establish annual compliance calendar
Build partnerships with printer manufacturers
Launch community forums and resource library

Phase 5: Scale & Sustainability (Year 2+)

Upcoming

Expand directory to 1,000+ specialists globally
Optimize Google Ad Grants campaigns for maximum ROI
Explore additional grant opportunities (foundation grants, corporate sponsors)
Launch annual conference or virtual summit
Develop training and certification programs
Advocate for right-to-repair legislation
Establish regional chapters

Why Maryland?

We recommend incorporating in Maryland because Judy Manesh is based there, which simplifies state filing requirements, reduces registered agent costs, and aligns the nonprofit's domicile with its primary operator. Maryland has straightforward nonprofit incorporation procedures and reasonable annual filing requirements. While Delaware and Wyoming are popular for for-profit entities, Maryland is the practical choice for a small nonprofit where the founder is the primary administrator.