This is not as detailed an answer as I would like but there is a limit how much time one can fritter away at work. However having started and having had to abandon a 501(c)3, I would like to warn you about some of the pitfalls:1.) Know your subject inside out, live it, breathe it. My subject was modern opera and it was pretty much the only thing I had covered. You must be able to run down what you are raising money for and infuse contributors and team members with a messianic, John Brown-like sense of urgency.2.) Have time to work on the project full time. It is very difficult or impossible to run a non profit and work a 9 to 5. If you are planning to carve an administrative salary out for yourself it may be a long time coming and that salary must be approved by a board even after you get your federal tax exempt status.3.) Raise money or have money that you must raise well in advance of getting your 501(c)3 status that will be sufficient for the legal and accounting help you will need for writing up an agreement and a budget that will have to be approved to establish your organization. The timetable is a lengthy one and there are many steps required for you to be able to file and then apply for state and federal grants and you will need detailed advice establishing how long it will take and how much it will cost. It took me about a year and then I had to set up payroll for 3 employees and figure out withholding, etc. just like any business.4.) When you set up your board, avoid appointing your friends or people who are merely sympathetic to your idea but rather try to attract people who can substantially help you reach your goal and who believe in your cause as strongly as you do. This is easier said than done, but your initial board needs a lot of time to work toward your goal and not just go to occasional meetings. It is critical that all board members make an immediate (financial, expertise, time commitment) contribution to your non profit if it is to succeed.Find as many people who have started non profits, hopefully in the area you wish to start one, as you can and ask them as many detailed questions as possible. If you haven't done a lot of research you cannot hope to find helpful answers. If you don't have a lot of people helping you in the beginning you are basically looking at taking an unpaid job for the next few years. But if you really believe in what you're doing and are prepared for it to have it consume your life you can make it work. Good luck!