Should the Board Establish a Not-for-Profit C orporation?

1. Should the Board Establish aNot-for-Profit Corporation? October 2012 Branson, MO

2. The Question • Are there benefits to the NFHP if the board established a not-for-profit corporation?

3. NFHP Now • A coalition of federal, state, and tribal governments, and NGOs (seeking to add more business representatives) seeking common goals. • In business-speak, we’re a “strategic alliance.” • In government-speak, we’re a “partnership.” • We function through services provided by members. • e.g., NFWF and AFWA the “banks.” • Achieved significant accomplishments on path to organizational maturity. • Clear strategic direction. • Excellent governance structure. • Highly functioning staff. • Resources tightening.

4. Why Incorporate? • Incorporation is a STRATEGY to help achieve specific objectives or ends. • Incorporation is NOT AN OBJECTIVE itself. • It may be a good strategy for us in the context of: • “Business” • Protecting assets. • Reducing liability and risk. • “Growth” • Building/capitalizing on initiative. • Growing and making best use of limited resources.

5. Some Potential Benefits • Allow for direct funding by foundations. • Allow for “membership” revenue from partner coalition or individual members. • Leverage project funding for dedicated staff. • Allow net assets to grow.

6. The Concerns Raised • These are just some of the concerns • Federal agency reps on the board. • Setting up a new corporation costs money. • We already have a functioning governance structure. • Does it conflict with the NFHCA? • We’d like to hear more about thoughts you have

7. A Model Mission/Goals Purpose, Direction • Govern • National Fish Habitat Board Strategies 2nd Edition Action Plan Strategic Issues • “Facilitate” • 501(c)(3) • Manage • NFHP Staff $ • Corporate Directors selected by and Responsible to • NFH Board Programs Conservation Delivery by Board and FHPs