10+ Best & Profitable Non Profit Business Ideas [2023]

Ready to make a difference in the world by starting a non-profit business? Check out our list of 10+ best and profitable non-profit business ideas to get started in 2023. We'll show you everything you need to know to get your new non-profit off the ground!
Newfoundr

By Nick Cotter
Updated Feb 07, 2024

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Hey there, future changemakers! Have you ever found yourself daydreaming about starting a business that not only generates a profit, but also makes a significant impact on the world? Well, you're not alone. The year 2023 could be your year to turn those dreams into reality.

Imagine this - you, at the helm of a successful non-profit, making a difference in a cause you're passionate about. Sounds exciting, doesn't it? But, we know what you're thinking. "Where do I even begin?"

Well, that's exactly where we come in. We've put together a list of over 10 non-profit business ideas that are not only profitable but also have the potential to bring about substantial change in society. So, buckle up, because we're about to take you on an inspiring journey of discovery that could potentially change your life, and the lives of many others, for the better.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur looking for a new challenge, or a newbie dipping your toes into the world of non-profit entrepreneurship for the first time, this article is for you. So, let's dive right in, shall we?

Homeless Shelter

A homeless shelter is a safe, welcoming place where people who are without homes can stay. It can provide them with beds, food, and clothing. Homeless shelters are important because they are trying to help those in need and reduce homelessness. They also often provide services such as medical care and psychosocial help to those living on the streets. Homeless shelters make a great business idea for those looking to help their local community and make a difference.

  • Provide a safe, welcoming place for the homeless
  • Provide beds, food, and clothing
  • Can offer other services such as medical care and psychosocial help
  • Help reduce homelessness in the local community
  • Make a difference in people's lives
image of a Homeless Shelter

Soup Kitchen

A soup kitchen is a term used to describe an organization that serves hot meals to people in need. It is an essential service for many communities and provides both physical and emotional benefits for those who rely on its services. In addition to providing meals, a soup kitchen may also provide clothing, housekeeping supplies, or access to medical care.

  • Provides meals for people in need
  • Provides access to other necessities like clothing and medical care
  • Helps improve the physical and emotional health of recipients
  • Can be set up as a non-profit business
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Examples of successful businesses:

Non-profit organizations play an essential role in many communities, providing services and support to people in need. Here is a list of some well-known and successful non-profit companies:

  • American Red Cross
  • Habitat for Humanity
  • Doctors Without Borders
  • World Wildlife Fund
  • Operation Smile
  • Save the Children
  • The Salvation Army
  • United Way
  • UNICEF
  • Make-a-Wish Foundation

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Canned Food Drive

A canned food drive is an event organized for collecting non-perishable food items or canned goods and donating them to people in need. It is an excellent business idea for meeting the needs of communities and providing meaningful assistance to those in need. Here are some of the benefits of hosting a canned food drive:

  • Helps address food insecurity in the local area
  • Provides an opportunity to build relationships with community organizations, charities, and other partners
  • Provides a way to engage with local businesses, schools and faith-based organizations
  • Provides an opportunity for team building and volunteer work within the organization
  • Raises awareness about hunger relief efforts

More resources:

Animal Shelter

An animal shelter is an organization that provides care and protection for homeless, neglected, or abused animals. It is a great business idea as it offers a variety of benefits:

  • It promotes animal welfare and helps reduce pet overpopulation.
  • It gives people the opportunity to adopt an animal in need of a loving home.
  • It provides shelter and healthcare to animals in difficult situations.
  • It gives unwanted animals the chance to live a happy life.
  • It helps to reduce stress and increase well-being in people who adopt animals from the shelter.

Senior Care Assistance

Senior care assistance is the specialized care of elderly people who can no longer take care of themselves. It can include activities such as cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping, and providing medical assistance. Senior care assistance is a great business idea because it:

  • Provides a much-needed service to those in need
  • Can be provided on a part-time or full-time basis
  • Is relatively easy to start with minimal overhead costs
  • Alleviates the burden on family members who are unable to provide adequate care for their elderly loved ones

Related business ideas:

Mentorship Program

A mentorship program is a program designed to provide guidance and support to an individual, most often related to career, education, or professional development. Mentorship programs make great business ideas because they can bring direct value to both parties involved. The mentor can offer their knowledge, expertise, and experience while gaining a sense of satisfaction through imparting their wisdom. Meanwhile, the mentee can learn and grow with the assistance of a well-respected professional in their field. Here are some key benefits for a business to consider when starting a mentorship program:

  • Increased exposure and visibility for the business
  • Builds trust within the industry
  • Increases morale of employees and partners
  • Encourages knowledge sharing and creativity
  • Provides an opportunity for upskilling and talent development
  • Reputation building as a leader in the field or industry

Low-cost Housing Facility

Low-cost housing facilities are housing accommodations designed to provide affordable and comfortable housing for people with limited means. It is a great business idea because it not only provides much-needed housing resources to the local community, but it also has the potential to generate a good return on investment.

  • Provides access to safe and affordable housing for people with limited means
  • May be subsidized by local or federal government programs
  • Can generate good returns on investment
  • Provides a service that many communities need
  • Can provide a steady source of income for the business

Mobile Health Clinic

A mobile health clinic is a business that provides health services to customers who may not have access to traditional healthcare services. It typically involves a vehicle outfitted with medical equipment, supplies, and personnel. The advantage of a mobile health clinic is that it makes healthcare services available to people wherever they are located. This makes it a great business idea for those looking to provide quality healthcare to underserved populations.

  • Allows access to quality medical care in areas with limited resources
  • Provides convenience for those in remote locations or who do not have access to traditional care
  • Offers a cost-effective way to deliver medical services
  • Reduces wait times by allowing patients to receive immediate care in the field

After-school Program

An after-school program is a structured program designed to provide a safe and encouraging environment for school-aged children after the traditional school day has ended. After-school programs offer a wide range of activities, such as academics, physical activities, and recreational activities. They also provide snacks and meals. This can be an excellent business idea because:

  • It provides a much needed service for busy parents.
  • It allows students to build important life skills.
  • It provides a great opportunity for learning.
  • It creates a positive environment for children outside of the home.
  • It can be adapted to serve different age and interest groups.

Literacy Program

A literacy program is an educational program that focuses on teaching reading, writing, and comprehension skills. It is typically aimed at improving the skills of people who have difficulty reading or understanding written text. Such programs can range from those which focus on basic literacy to those which help students become proficient readers and writers. They can also be beneficial for business owners as they can help to improve communication and interaction with customers, increase worker productivity, and help to attract new customers.

  • Improves communication and interaction with customers
  • Increases worker productivity
  • Helps to attract new customers
  • Empowers those with difficulty reading or understanding written text
  • Provides tools for learning basic literacy skills
  • Assists in becoming proficient readers and writers

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