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Hidden Resources Think nonprofits have no money to spare for your company? Stop ignoring this $621 billion market.

By Jacquelyn Lynn

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Does it seem like every time you turn around, a charitableorganization is hitting you up for a contribution? You'veprobably bought products, sponsored events and written checks--buthave you considered that these nonprofit groups might be potentialcustomers?

If you think "nonprofit" means "no money,"think again. With more than 1 million nonprofit institutions in theUnited States--schools, hospitals, human services agencies, artsand cultural organizations, religious groups, and more--employingnearly 15.1 million people and generating revenues in excess of$621 billion, this is a market worth a good, hard look.

Growth in the nonprofit sector has mushroomed in recent years,and although governments continue to reduce funding for socialprograms, that growth is expected to continue. And beyond thenonprofits themselves are their stakeholders--the supporters,members and funding sources that may also be potential markets foryour business.