Done for You, Expert-Led
501(c)(3) Formation
Our team manages the entire IRS process from start to finish. Over 150 nonprofit founders already trust our proven method.
At The Kannico Agency, we believe in the power of social impact
With a deeply rooted commitment to nonprofits, Kirsten Stevens and the Kannico team have devoted the past twenty years to working alongside over 150 organizations and individuals, establishing successful and compliant nonprofits.
The Kannico Agency, founded in 2002 by Kirsten Stevens MBA, CFRE, is a trusted partner for nonprofits and foundations dedicated to driving meaningful social impact. With over 22 years of experience, Kirsten and her team bring a global perspective to the sector, offering specialized consulting services to help bridge the gap between funding and transformational change. From nonprofit formations and strategic planning to philanthropic advisory services, The Kannico Agency empowers organizations to achieve sustainability and measurable outcomes.
Mission-Driven Organizations We Have Worked With
Our work spans across the U.S. and internationally, with clients in The Bahamas, Guatemala, Jamaica, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico and the US.
Real Results for Real Nonprofits
Trusted by 150+ Nonprofit Founders Over 22 Years
It has been such a pleasure working with The Kannico Agency! From start to finish they were professional, thorough, and so easy to work with! They not only helped me with my search, but they guided me through the whole process. It is so refreshing to work with professionals who genuinely care and take time to answer all of your questions. The Kannico Agency has made such an impact for my organization.
My relationship with Kirsten Stevens and Kannico has exceeded my expectations. As a startup nonprofit I was in need of a consultant to assist the process. Kirsten has helped me and Bounty & Soul navigate the legal, financial, social and marketing requirements with ease and confidence. Kirsten’s compassionate energy and friendly, no-nonsense approach combined with her diverse experience and knowledge make her a perfect partner for me and my organization. She possesses the ability to align with our core values, understand and embrace our mission and genuinely care about our success. ..she does so with grace and authenticity. What more can you ask for? I am grateful to have her guiding and supporting Bounty & Soul’s birth, growth and success.
The Kannico Agency led us through a strategic planning process and retreat helping us develop our next 5-year plan. Kirsten and her team were professional, knowledgeable and generally great to work with. They cared about our organization, staff and clients and went out of their way to support us along the way. During the weeks leading up to the retreat the team interviewed stakeholders, carried out focus groups, worked with staff and spent time truly understanding our mission and gathering the information needed to help us put together our plan. It was a true pleasure to work with The Kannico Agency!
Working with Kirsten Stevens in The Bahamas several years ago has benefited the organization I founded and myself. It was her diligence and keenness in writing effective grants that inspired me to develop an organization, which is now a 501(c)(3) Tax Exempt Organization in the United States. Her people’s personality and professionalism has given us at The National L.E.A.D. Institute full confidence in her capabilities in assisting our North Carolina Operations to become a premiere Nonprofit within that State.
There is hands-down no other firm I would choose to “start-up” a non-profit. Kirsten and her team at The Kannico Agency bring decades of experience building and sustaining NPO’s from the ground up, and their expertise in compliance, donor stewardship, board relations, communications, and running a foundation has been invaluable to my organization and my team. We referred her to another non-profit with which I am involved and she has exceeded their expectations as well.
I write on behalf of my board of directors of the St. Cyprian's Development Foundation (SCDF) to let you know how very pleased we are with the services that your Agency provides. You guys are always very professional and respond to any of our queries in a very timely manner, usually the same day! They address each and every query and concern that we have in a timely and efficient manner We realize that it is a team effort at your Agency and so please thank ALL of your team on our behalf. We recommend Kannico to all our business associates and friends who are interested in establishing a 501C3. It is a great service!
Why Most Nonprofit Applications Get
Rejected or Delayed
Starting a nonprofit shouldn't feel impossible, but the IRS rejection rate tells a different story. Here's what derails most applications:
Incomplete Documentation
Missing required forms and supporting documents
Incorrect Legal Structure
Choosing the wrong entity type for your mission
Poor Mission Statements
Vague language that doesn't meet IRS charitable purpose requirements
Financial Planning Gaps
Inadequate budgets and revenue projections
Compliance Oversights
Missing policies or bylaws
The result? Months of delays, costly resubmissions, and frustration that kills momentum when you should be changing lives.
Why Nonprofits Trust Us
Trusted Support; Proven Results
Policy Templates
Receive
professionally-drafted conflict of interest policies, whistleblower protections, and document retention policies required by the IRS
Licensed Attorney Support
Your articles of incorporation and bylaws are crafted by experienced nonprofit attorneys, ensuring bulletproof legal compliance and protection for your organization
100% Success Rate
Every nonprofit we’ve worked with has received their 501(c)(3) status. Our meticulous attention to detail and deep understanding of IRS requirements means your application gets approved the first time
Step-by-Step Clarity
Our proven process eliminates guesswork. You'll know exactly what's happening and when, with clear milestones and regular progress updates
Training
We spend time with you and your Board of Directors to make sure that you fully understand the compliance requirements
When you choose Kannico, you're not just hiring a service; you're partnering with proven nonprofit formation experts who understand what it takes to build organizations that change lives.
Complete 501(c)(3) Formation Services
We leave no stone left unturned
Step 1:
Free Formation Consultation
Begin with a conversation with a formation expert to outline the vision and mission of your nonprofit.
Step 2:
Launch Call
Engage in an intake call with our team to start the preparation of all legal documents.
Step 3:
State Incorporation
We file your Articles of Incorporation with the state of your choice, marking the official launch of your nonprofit.
Step 4:
EIN Acquisition
We will secure your Employer Identification Number (EIN), essential for doing business.
Step 5:
Bylaws, COI and Meeting
We prepare your Bylaws and Conflict of Interest Policy and facilitate your Organizational Meeting.
Step 6:
IRS Application for Exemption
Our team will prepare and submit your short or long form 1023 application for tax-exempt status to the IRS.
Ready to start your nonprofit today?
Click the button below to get started
Frequently Asked Questions
What is nonprofit formation, and why do I need it?
Nonprofit formation is the process of legally establishing a nonprofit organization. It involves registering with the appropriate government agencies, obtaining tax-exempt status, and setting up the necessary governance and operational structures. It is essential to ensure compliance, credibility, and eligibility for grants and donations.
What are the steps involved in nonprofit formation?
The steps involved in nonprofit formation typically include developing a mission statement, selecting a board of directors, filing articles of incorporation, applying for tax-exempt status, creating bylaws, and obtaining necessary permits. Our nonprofit formation services guide you through each step to ensure a smooth process.
How long does the nonprofit formation process take?
The duration of the nonprofit formation process can vary depending on various factors, including the complexity of the organization's structure and the efficiency of the application process. On average, it can take several months to complete, but our services aim to streamline the process and minimize any delays.
What is tax-exempt status, and how do I obtain it?
Tax-exempt status is a designation that allows nonprofits to be exempt from paying federal and state income taxes. To obtain federal tax-exempt status, you need to apply to the IRS by submitting Form 1023 or Form 1023-EZ, along with supporting documentation. A separate application to your state will exempt you from paying sales tax on services and goods. Our nonprofit formation services include the full tax-exempt application process.
Can you help with choosing the right legal structure for my nonprofit?
Absolutely! We provide guidance on selecting the most appropriate legal structure for your nonprofit, such as a private foundation, nonprofit corporation, or association. We consider factors like your organization's mission, activities, governance needs, and liability protection to help you make an informed decision.
What ongoing compliance requirements do nonprofits have to fulfill?
Nonprofits have ongoing compliance obligations, such as filing annual reports, maintaining accurate financial records, conducting regular board meetings, and filing federal taxes (Even though you are tax-exempt you still have to file). Our nonprofit formation services include educating you on these requirements and providing guidance to ensure compliance.
Got more questions? Contact Us.
Done for You
Expert-Led 501(c)(3) Formation
Our team manages the entire IRS process from start to finish. Over 150 nonprofit founders already trust our proven method
At The Kannico Agency, we believe in the power of social impact
With a deeply rooted commitment to nonprofits, Kirsten Stevens and the Kannico team have devoted the past twenty years to working alongside over 150 organizations and individuals, establishing successful and compliant nonprofits.
The Kannico Agency, founded in 2002 by Kirsten Stevens MBA, CFRE, is a trusted partner for nonprofits and foundations dedicated to driving meaningful social impact. With over 22 years of experience, Kirsten and her team bring a global perspective to the sector, offering specialized consulting services to help bridge the gap between funding and transformational change. From nonprofit formations and strategic planning to philanthropic advisory services, The Kannico Agency empowers organizations to achieve sustainability and measurable outcomes.
Mission-Driven Organizations
We Have Worked With
Our work spans across the U.S. and internationally, with clients in The Bahamas, Guatemala, Jamaica, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico and the US.
Real Results for Real Nonprofits
Trusted by 150+ Nonprofit
Founders Over 22 Years
Working with Kirsten Stevens in The Bahamas several years ago has benefited the organization I founded and myself. It was her diligence and keenness in writing effective grants that inspired me to develop an organization, which is now a 501(c)(3) Tax Exempt Organization in the United States. Her people’s personality and professionalism has given us at The National L.E.A.D. Institute full confidence in her capabilities in assisting our North Carolina Operations to become a premiere Nonprofit within that State.
It has been such a pleasure working with The Kannico Agency! From start to finish they were professional, thorough, and so easy to work with! They not only helped me with my search, but they guided me through the whole process. It is so refreshing to work with professionals who genuinely care and take time to answer all of your questions. The Kannico Agency has made such an impact for my organization.
My relationship with Kirsten Stevens and The Kannico Agency has exceeded my expectations. As a startup nonprofit I was in need of a consultant to assist the process. Kirsten has helped me and Bounty & Soul navigate the legal, financial, social and marketing requirements with ease and confidence. Kirsten’s compassionate energy and friendly, no-nonsense approach combined with her diverse experience and knowledge make her a perfect partner for me and my organization. She possesses the ability to align with our core values, understand and embrace our mission and genuinely care about our success...she does so with grace and authenticity. What more can you ask for? I am grateful to have her guiding and supporting Bounty & Soul’s birth, growth and success.
The Kannico Agency led us through a strategic planning process and retreat helping us develop our next 5-year plan. Kirsten and her team were professional, knowledgeable and generally great to work with. They cared about our organization, staff and clients and went out of their way to support us along the way. During the weeks leading up to the retreat the team interviewed stakeholders, carried out focus groups, worked with staff and spent time truly understanding our mission and gathering the information needed to help us put together our plan. It was a true pleasure to work with The Kannico Agency!
There is hands-down no other firm I would choose to “start-up” a non-profit. Kirsten and her team at The Kannico Agency bring decades of experience building and sustaining NPO’s from the ground up, and their expertise in compliance, donor stewardship, board relations, communications, and running a foundation has been invaluable to my organization and my team. We referred her to another non-profit with which I am involved and she has exceeded their expectations as well.
I write on behalf of my board of directors of the St. Cyprian's Development Foundation (SCDF) to let you know how very pleased we are with the services that your Agency provides. You guys are always very professional and respond to any of our queries in a very timely manner, usually the same day! They address each and every query and concern that we have in a timely and efficient manner We realize that it is a team effort at your Agency and so please thank ALL of your team on our behalf. We recommend Kannico to all our business associates and friends who are interested in establishing a 501C3. It is a great service!
Why Most Nonprofit Applications Get
Rejected or Delayed
Starting a nonprofit shouldn't feel impossible, but the IRS rejection rate tells a different story. Here's what derails most applications:
Incomplete Documentation
Missing required forms and supporting documents
Incorrect Legal Structure
Choosing the wrong entity type for your mission
Poor Mission Statements
Vague language that doesn't meet IRS charitable purpose requirements
Financial Planning Gaps
Inadequate budgets and revenue projections
Compliance Oversights
Missing critical state and federal requirements
The result? Months of delays, costly resubmissions, and frustration that kills momentum when you should be changing lives.
Why Nonprofits Trust Us
Trusted Support; Proven Results
Policy Templates
Receive
professionally-drafted conflict of interest policies, whistleblower protections, and document retention policies required by the IRS
Licensed Attorney Support
Your articles of incorporation and bylaws are crafted by experienced nonprofit attorneys, ensuring bulletproof legal compliance and protection for your organization
100% Success Rate
Every nonprofit we’ve worked with has received their 501(c)(3) status. Our meticulous attention to detail and deep understanding of IRS requirements means your application gets approved the first time.
Step-by-Step Clarity
Our proven process eliminates guesswork. You'll know exactly what's happening and when, with clear milestones and regular progress updates
Training
We provide you with the recommended Policies for your organization
When you choose Kannico, you're not just hiring a service, you're partnering with proven nonprofit formation experts who understand what it takes to build organizations that change lives.
Complete 501(c)(3) Formation Services
We leave no stone
left unturned
Step 1:
Free Formation Consultation
Begin with a conversation with a formation expert to outline the vision and mission of your nonprofit.
Step 2:
Launch Call
Engage in an intake call with our team to start the preparation of all legal documents.
Step 3:
State Incorporation
We file your Articles of Incorporation with the state of your choice, marking the official launch of your nonprofit.
Step 4:
EIN Acquisition
We will secure your Employer Identification Number (EIN), essential for doing business..
Step 5:
Bylaws, COI and Meeting
We prepare your Bylaws and Conflict of Interest Policy and facilitate your Organizational Meeting.
Step 6:
IRS Application for Exemption
Our team will prepare and submit your short or long form 1023 application for tax-exempt status to the IRS.
Ready to start your nonprofit today?
Click the button below to get started
Frequently Asked Questions
What is nonprofit formation, and why do I need it?
Nonprofit formation is the process of legally establishing a nonprofit organization. It involves registering with the appropriate government agencies, obtaining tax-exempt status, and setting up the necessary governance and operational structures. It is essential to ensure compliance, credibility, and eligibility for grants and donations.
What are the steps involved in nonprofit formation?
The steps involved in nonprofit formation typically include developing a mission statement, selecting a board of directors, filing articles of incorporation, applying for tax-exempt status, creating bylaws, and obtaining necessary permits. Our nonprofit formation services guide you through each step to ensure a smooth process.
How long does the nonprofit formation process take?
The duration of the nonprofit formation process can vary depending on various factors, including the complexity of the organization's structure and the efficiency of the application process. On average, it can take several months to complete, but our services aim to streamline the process and minimize any delays.
What is tax-exempt status, and how do I obtain it?
Tax-exempt status is a designation that allows nonprofits to be exempt from paying federal and state income taxes. To obtain federal tax-exempt status, you need to apply to the IRS by submitting Form 1023 or Form 1023-EZ, along with supporting documentation. A separate application to your state will exempt you from paying sales tax on services and goods. Our nonprofit formation services include the full tax-exempt application process.
Can you help with choosing the right legal structure for my nonprofit?
Absolutely! We provide guidance on selecting the most appropriate legal structure for your nonprofit, such as a private foundation, nonprofit corporation, or association. We consider factors like your organization's mission, activities, governance needs, and liability protection to help you make an informed decision.
What ongoing compliance requirements do nonprofits have to fulfill?
Nonprofits have ongoing compliance obligations, such as filing annual reports, maintaining accurate financial records, conducting regular board meetings, and filing federal taxes (Even though you are tax-exempt you still have to file). Our nonprofit formation services include educating you on these requirements and providing guidance to ensure compliance.