Abstract
In this project I examine the processes and requirements to develop a strategic plan for a start-up, grassroots nonprofit. Ubuntu Green is a new nonprofit focused on bringing green lifestyle education, job training and policy improvements to underserved neighborhoods in Sacramento, California. I reviewed both academic and practitioner literature to justify the selection of best practices and a right-sized methodology for nonprofit strategic planning. My aim was in part to avoid, where possible, the potential for unintended consequences as a result of planning. Delivering a strategic plan to Ubuntu Green revealed where new organizations will be challenged by this process. Several areas such as the experience of the facilitator, identification of organizational culture during the planning process, as well as adequate planning and resources to accomplish data collector were challenges for this new nonprofit organization. I make recommendations for remediating these issues early in the process with selective interviews, developing teams or subcommittees, and carrying the process through an annual planning cycle.