5 Unique Types of Nonprofit Names for Your Consideration

Finding the right name for your nonprofit can be a challenge. It's important to keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all solution: different organizations will require different approaches when it comes to names. However, there are some common themes you should consider.

Nonprofit Name Type #1: Descriptive Name

Descriptive names are the most common type of name for organizations and often include a geographic location. Examples of this style of naming include The Boys Choir of Harlem, Louisville Zoo Foundation, and the 92nd Street Y. While these types of names can help distinguish an organization from others, they may limit future growth if the scope expands outside the named area. Therefore, it is important to consider all options when choosing a name for your organization. Do I Need a Lawyer To Start an LLC?

Nonprofit Name Type #2: Founder/Celebrity Name

Naming an organization after a founder can be a powerful tool to illustrate its mission and instantly build trust. Think of The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or the Lance Armstrong Foundation, for instance. There is no denying that attaching an individual's name to a charity helps it tell its story more effectively by capitalizing on its compelling personality.

Unfortunately, reliance on the positive reputation of one person comes with certain risks. For example, when controversy surrounded Lance Armstrong's career, his foundation was forced to rename itself to Livestrong Foundation in order to maintain public goodwill. This serves as an important lesson that charities should keep in mind when deciding how best to represent themselves through branding. Who Must Have aBusiness License?

Nonprofit Name Type #3: A Name With Meaning

The power of a well-crafted name can lead to immediate familiarity and knowledge about what a company or organization does — even without ever seeing its logo or reading more information. The name Red Cross is an iconic symbol for disaster relief, thanks to its reverse of Switzerland's flag. Their brand recognition has been built through a long history of success, and the simple yet powerful name and recognizable icon are deeply associated with their mission. How to Avoid Using Your Home Address for Your LLC

Likewise, Doctors Without Borders communicates that this organization provides healthcare in any location regardless of political conditions. These examples demonstrate how a name can powerfully reflect an organization's purpose.

Nonprofit Name Type #4: A Generic Name

Using a generic name has its own perks, but it could also be detrimental. For instance, the name “Crossroads “carries strong implied visual imagery yet is used by multiple organizations, making it difficult to differentiate them.

Similarly, “Do Something” is effective in getting its message across yet without any further context, it's unclear what the organization is asking you to do. Thus, having a generic word in an organization's name can be beneficial and disadvantageous at the same time. How to Start a Successful Mechanic Shop: A Comprehensive Guide

Nonprofit Name Type #5: A Unique Name

Here are some unique nonprofit names that serve as great examples. Note that each of these names combines two words. KickStart is a great example of how two words can be combined to create a unique name that encapsulates the mission. The purpose of the name is to build moral character in youth through martial arts. CarePath also successfully captures its purpose, which is to guide seniors to appropriate care. LLC or Corporation: Which Business Entity is Right for You?

MercyCorps fuses common words for an impactful moniker; however, an unintended message may be conveyed if one does not consider the connotations associated with its components. Therefore, it is important to remember that when creating a name by combining two or more words, all implications should be considered.

For a truly distinctive name, you can create your own word. Unusual names stand out and make it easier to remember. George Eastman's camera companies created Kodak with hard Ks at the start and end of the word, making it sound contemporary. Recently, Latin roots have been widely used in naming products. (Think Acura for accuracy or Lexus for excellence.) This technique is especially popular in pharmaceuticals with brands like Prozac, Claritin, and Zyrtec. However, this type of naming also requires significant marketing investment to be successful and can be costly to develop. How To Start A Background Check Company

Can My Name Feature Abbreviations?

Yes. In the nonprofit sector, acronyms are often used due to long names that can be hard to say in conversation. For example, IBM or UJA are both known by their initials without most people knowing what they mean.

Some abbreviations have been shortened even further and just consist of one letter. The YMCA is now simply referred to as the ‘Y.’ Meanwhile, the YMHA (or Jewish Community Center) has become ‘JCC.' In fact, some members now refer to it as just ‘the J!’ How Do Corporations Raise Money And Resources To Expand?

Take Your Time When Doing Naming Research

When it comes to choosing a name for your nonprofit organization, the most important step is doing your research. Learn about your audience:

• who are they?
• what do they need from you?
• how do they currently perceive you?
• where and how do they interact with you?

These questions will help guide your naming process and make narrowing down options easier. Once that's done, then you can start thinking of committees, contests, brainstorming sessions, or lists of ideas! Choosing the right nonprofit name can be exciting. But take the time to ensure that all the groundwork has been laid first. Free Professional Organizer Training

How Much Does It Cost To Register a Trademark for a Nonprofit?

Registering your trademark can become costly as application fees range from $225 to $400. If you decide to hire an attorney to take care of the filing process for you, there’ll be extra hiring costs too. To ensure your trademark remains active, paperwork must be filed annually. This means that the total cost of protecting your valuable assets goes beyond just the initial filing fee.

Filing your trademark paperwork can range from $150 to $500, depending if you choose to hire an attorney or not. Also, there are other fees you must take into consideration. For example, if you need to send out a cease and desist letter for someone infringing on your trademark, you may need an attorney to draft it for you. Annual Minutes Compliance Notices

Can I Change My Nonprofit Name Through the IRS?

Yes. Changing a nonprofit's name is not always as simple as it appears. Depending on the state the organization is located in, the process to change its name with the IRS will differ. Structured as a nonprofit corporation? Then you'll need to amend your Articles of Incorporation and make sure to file it with the correct state agency that handles incorporation processes.

Some states even require that an amendment be published in a newspaper of general circulation before it can take effect. Don't forget to double-check all your paperwork and documents. This isn't something you want to get wrong! Underground Storage Tank Business License