What Sectors Make up the Nonprofit Industry?

A nonprofit organization serves the public interest and is exempt from federal income taxes. There are 6 main sectors in the industry:

Health Services

• Largest sector in the Nonprofit Industry in terms of economic value and employment
• Largest share of wages and salaries in the industry
• Example: American Heart Association: offer a wide range of programs with the end goal of raising awareness about heart disease and its causes

Education

• Includes colleges, universities, preschool, elementary, secondary schools, libraries and research institutions
• Produces and disseminates knowledge and research
• Example: Khan Academy: provides free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere

Social and Legal Services

• Includes legal pro bono aid counsels, individual and family services, residential care, job training and community and housing development
• One of the fastest growing sectors
• Example: Wounded Warrior Project: offers a variety of programs, services and events for wounded veterans of the military actions following September 1, 2001

Civic and Environmental Advocacy

• Two biggest advocacy groups are: human rights and environment, conservation and wildlife
• Example: National Geographic Society: uses the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world

International Relations and Development

• Includes foreign research and analysis, international development and relief, international human rights, international peace and security
• Example: Operation Crossroads Africa: sponsors projects related to public health practices 

Arts and Culture

• The smallest sector in the industry
• Represents only 2% of the nonprofit sector's total funds
• Includes performing arts groups, ballet groups, nonprofit radio and television, museums and various humanities-oriented organizations
• Example: Americans for the Arts: focuses on advancing the arts in the United States