Let me walk you through how an MBA would approach bootstrapping this nonprofit quickly and efficiently with minimal resources. The key is to apply lean startup methodology to the nonprofit space.
First, let's outline the minimum viable product (MVP) strategy:
Start with validation and groundwork before spending any resources. Create a detailed one-page business plan focusing on your value proposition: using gamification for mental health and personal development. This helps crystallize your mission and attracts initial supporters.
For rapid online presence development: Set up a simple WordPress site using a free theme. Focus on presenting your core mission, the innovation behind Lilaya, and clear calls to action. Host it on an affordable platform like WordPress.com initially - you can migrate to self-hosted later when funds allow.
For the 501(c)(3) application: Start by recruiting a founding board - you need at least 3 directors. Target people who bring complementary skills: perhaps a mental health professional, a game developer, and someone with nonprofit experience. Having a strong board adds credibility and spreads the workload.
File Form 1023-EZ if you qualify (projected annual gross receipts under $50,000). This streamlined form costs $275 versus $600 for the full Form 1023, and typically processes faster. While waiting for IRS approval, you can operate as a fiscal sponsorship under an existing nonprofit - this lets you accept tax-deductible donations immediately.
For initial funding: Consider crowdfunding on platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo. This serves triple duty: raising funds, validating market interest, and building an initial user community. Structure the campaign around developing the open-source platform, with clear milestones and deliverables.
The key differentiator in an MBA approach is treating this as a lean startup experiment. Instead of trying to build everything at once, focus on proving your core assumption: that people want to engage with personal development through gamification. Each step should validate this hypothesis while minimizing resource expenditure.