Not to offer pros and cons, but perhaps an explanation:

A collective describes the internal organizing structure while "non-profit" is a legal definition under IRS code.

Collective generally refers to worker-run entities where decisions are made by concensus.  As a legal structure, it may not be recognized by the IRS, but is a legitimate form of organizing a business/project with processes and methods of decision making layed out in articles of incorporation, bylaws etc.

Non-profits are legal tax-exempt entities subject to specific rules about money being used to further the mission of the organization as set forth in articles of incorporation.  Nonprofits require a board of directors with officers etc, but you may specify the method of decision making.  501(c)(3) means that your objectives are charitable and educational.

you can be both (collective and nonprofit) at the same time, one or the other or neither.

josh



On Thu, Mar 18, 2010 at 8:11 AM, Liza Mattana <pedals2people@gmail.com> wrote:
Hey,
 
Can someone lay out a simple list of pros and cons for each please? Right now we're a 501c3, with a 5 member board of directors, 2 part time employees, and several committed volunteers.
 
We came across some issues with the gambling commission when we were trying to get a fundraiser/raffle together. Basically, we need a 15 member voting-member body that votes on the board, which sounds like a collective to me. I don't know, maybe it's not. I'm confused.
 
Thanks,
liza
--
Liza Mattana
president
www.pedals2people.org
Spokane, WA

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