Trustpilot
Launch Your Private Foundation with Confidence
Beacon helps philanthropic founders form private foundations to fund charitable causes, manage grants, and apply for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status with clarity.
Have questions? Call (888) 340-0089 to speak with a business specialist.
Trustpilot
Launch Your Private Foundation with Confidence
Beacon helps philanthropic founders form private foundations to fund charitable causes, manage grants, and apply for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status with clarity.
Have questions? Call (888) 340-0089 to speak with a support specialist.
Understanding a Private Foundation
Private foundations manage charitable giving through grants and funding programs. Here’s what to know before starting your own.
Philanthropy-Focused
Supports charitable causes through grants instead of direct programs.
Funded by a Few
Backed by one donor, family, or corporation to create lasting community impact.
Governed by Trustees
Managed by founders or trustees who oversee assets and ensure compliance.
Accountable to the Public Good
Meets IRS payout requirements and maintains transparency to keep 501(c)(3) status.
How Beacon Works for Private Foundations
Tailored formation support built for structure, compliance, and long-term philanthropy.
Specialist-Reviewed Formation
Our nonprofit team prepares and reviews your Articles of Incorporation for state accuracy and IRS readiness, giving your foundation a compliant start from day one.
501(c)(3) Application Guidance
BeaconComplete includes clear, step-by-step 501(c)(3) filing assistance so your foundation can qualify for tax-exempt status and begin making grants confidently.
Built-In Compliance and Support
Once your formation is approved, we provide resources and reminders to help your foundation stay compliant and focused on its giving mission.
Why Incorporation Matters for Private Foundations
Build credibility, protect your mission, and create a lasting structure for charitable giving.
Incorporating your private foundation creates a legal framework that safeguards assets, defines governance, and builds donor and grant recipient confidence. It also helps support compliance with IRS rules for charitable organizations. Beacon’s formation process provides the clarity and confidence you need to establish your legacy and sustain impact for years to come.
Getting Started Is Easy
Starting a nonprofit can feel complex, but Beacon makes formation simple with straightforward steps that help you move forward with clarity.
Choose Your Package
Select the plan that fits your goals. Choose BeaconStart for simple formation or BeaconComplete for guided support and added peace of mind.
Tell Us About Your Nonprofit
Answer a few short questions about your mission and leadership. Our team will prepare your formation documents and file them accurately with your state.
Launch Your Vision
Once your nonprofit is approved, you will receive your official formation documents and guidance for what to do next so you can start making an impact.
A Lasting Legacy of Giving
Private foundations distribute billions in charitable grants each year, advancing education, healthcare, and community progress across the nation. With Beacon, you can establish your foundation, strengthen donor trust, and make an impact that lasts for generations.
Did You Know?
Over 100,000 private foundations in the U.S. award grants each year.
A Lasting Legacy of Giving
Private foundations distribute billions in charitable grants each year, advancing education, healthcare, and community progress across the nation. With Beacon, you can establish your foundation, strengthen donor trust, and make an impact that lasts for generations.
Did You Know?
Over 100,000 private foundations in the U.S. award grants each year.
We're Here to Help
Have questions about starting or running your nonprofit? Call us at (888) 340-0089 or explore our FAQs for quick answers.
Guiding Nonprofits from Vision to Impact
With clarity, guidance, and support, Beacon helps founders launch with confidence and sustain long-term impact.