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How many board members do you need to start a non profit organization?

I am looking to start a non profit organization but have been told I will need board members. How many do I need and are they required to have certain qualifications?

Public Comments

1. There's no set number, but most states require 3-5 people for incorporation. Standard officers at a minimum are President, Vice President, and Secretary/Treasurer. You can always have (or add) more as your needs dictate.
2. According to the BoardSource governance survey, the average size of a board is 17 members, the median being 15. Organizations with larger budgets tend to have larger boards. It is always good to remember: Average figures only reflect the reality, not a recommended norm.
   
   
   
   In most states, the laws dictate the minimum size for nonprofit boards. Usually three is the minimum, but in some states only one or two board members are required. Equally, it is good to remember that laws regulate the minimal legal requirements, not what your optimal goal should be.
   
   
   
   When determining the size of your board, start by thinking about what your board needs to accomplish. Optimal board size may vary according to the stage in the board's lifecycle, its mission, its fundraising necessities, and whether it is a national or a local board.