[doughj3]

Non-profits need revenue, not profit.

[sun_machine]

But if your operating costs are more than your revenue (thus, no profit), who is keeping that non-profit afloat?

[dvanduzer]

A non-profit organization can solicit donations big and small, via grants, memberships, and other common mechanisms.

A non-profit organization can also sell things at a markup. There are alarmingly profitable for-profit tote bag businesses riding the back of non-profits everywhere.