What's a not-for-profit?

"The first day of the [Web '98 Design & Development] conference, I talked to some of the larger exhibitors. I told them my story angle was how nonprofits might be using their software or services. I asked them to tell me about their nonprofit customers. The two best answers I got were: 'I'll get back to you with that information.' (They didn't.) 'Is the American Medical Association a nonprofit?' The typical response was a blank, uncomprehending stare. One company representative was so engrossed in his worldview that he made a big point of explaining that his company was in business to make a profit. I told him that nonprofits buy lots of things from for-profit companies, but I don't think I got through."

— Michael Gilbert, Nonprofit Online News