Fascinating post here on the number of charities approved by the IRS last year. At our first Nonprofit Congress meeting, the New York delegates dined together and spawned a detailed “conversation” on the number of nonprofits throughout the country. According to the IRS business master file, New York has close to 100,000 nonprofits throughout the state! Empire State indeed! How many of them are actually operating is a question to be seen, however the new requirements for filing and the new 990 will possibly help shrink that number.
Does this mean increased competition for funding? Yes. Does this mean some consolidation? Probably. Does this signify that there are too many nonprofits? Not so clear.
I’ve experienced the debate between there are too many nonprofits, and new nonprofits means increased innovation, and spurs on increased accountability.
What’s your point of view?
Let us know. This may come up in our town halls (New York City, Albany, Online) and at the Congress as well.
Filed under: nonprofit congress Tagged: | 990, charities, IRS, nonprofit, nonprofit congress
You’re right that’s a lot, but I think most nonprofits find that they cannot meet all the need that exists – the Center for Respite Care provides homeless medical recovery in the Cincinnati area. We are nearly always full with referrals coming in daily. I don’t think there are too many worthy nonprofits sitting around scratching their heads all day. Suffice to say that there is a greater demand for many services, especially in the homeless sector, than can be met.