15.1 Identify the top three competitors.
15.2 To what degree are these other employers true competitors? Do they actually supply the same type of service?
15.3 What are the percentages of the sector or industry that your target firm and each of its major competitors control?
15.4 Is one of these firms emerging as a leader?
It is important to understand your target organization in terms of the competitive landscape. Some nonprofits provide unique services, while others operate in sectors where there is competition from other nonprofits and for profit firms. It may be difficult to find information on competitors as it is not contained on Form 990 or it is unlikely that it will appear on the organization’s web site. Industrial/sectoral publications may provide information as well as a general news search.
When evaluating competitors, it is important to identify if they are true competitors. Do they actually offer similar services and have similar clients or customers?