From idea to open village, in seven steps.
A pragmatic playbook for launching a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and standing up your first tiny-home village. Pair each step with a mentor inside Aether.
Duration
1–2 weeks
Clarify your why
Write a one-paragraph mission, identify the people you serve, and pick the smallest meaningful first program. Skip jargon.
Deliverables
- Mission statement
- Beneficiary profile
- MVP program scope
Duration
2–4 weeks
Incorporate as a nonprofit
File articles of incorporation in your state, appoint an initial board (3+ unrelated), get your EIN, and adopt model bylaws.
Deliverables
- Articles of incorporation
- EIN letter
- Adopted bylaws
Duration
1–3 months
Apply for 501(c)(3) status
Most small orgs use Form 1023-EZ; mid-size + housing projects need full Form 1023 with detailed budgets and narrative.
Deliverables
- Form 1023 / 1023-EZ
- Conflict-of-interest policy
- 3-year budget
Duration
2–3 weeks
Stand up financials
Open a nonprofit bank account, set up bookkeeping, register for state charity solicitation, and choose a giving platform.
Deliverables
- Bank account
- Bookkeeping system
- State registrations
Duration
Ongoing
Recruit founding people
Initial board (governance), advisors (lived experience + technical), and the first 10 donors and volunteers.
Deliverables
- Board roster
- Advisory bench
- First 10 donors
Duration
3–6 months
Site & zoning for your village
Engage city planning early. Walk neighbors through the design. Tiny-home villages typically need conditional-use permits.
Deliverables
- Site selected
- Pre-application meeting
- Neighborhood letters
Duration
6–18 months
Design, build, open
Standardize a tiny-home plan, source materials, schedule build days, and onboard residents with wraparound support.
Deliverables
- Approved plans
- Build calendar
- Resident handbook
Common questions
FAQ
Ready for step one?
Create your free Aether account and the templates, mentor list, and progress tools open up.