We started out at a school, but due to the nature of their club system it became financially and bureaucratically irresponsible to remain there. We created a non-profit and started working as a community team 2 years later. I would say the most difficult part was finding a location to call home. We got lucky - there was a local hackerspace that had ample room and the right atmosphere for an FRC team. We also considered renting a local space, but the costs were a bit prohibitive.
We've kept our team number this entire time. It's a great way to maintain your identity if a majority of your current students remain on the team.
There was an awkward transition year. If you can avoid it, great. Otherwise, the end result is still well worth it.
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Originally Posted by Qbot2640
I just did this with our team. The free online application for an EIN number gets you the number instantly (so you can open a bank account), and the online "EZ" version of the 501(c)3 application is actually easy, costs only $400, and we were approved in a week. PM me, if you have any questions. (I'll try to watch for a PM...I'm really horrible about noticing that I get a message).
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Really? Ours took a couple months, as did the non-profit for my last team. Was this a temporary approval to set up a bank account?