If I get h1b visa from non-profit would I have to wait until oct 2010 to start the position?

Any ideas/suggestions would be highly appreciated.

not necessarily. if you have an OPT and you are authorized to work than you can start working right away and eventually apply for H1.  The h1 for non-profit is exempted from the regular H1. You can apply for H1 for non-profit any time. You don't have to wait until April to file your H1. I hope this feedback helps. Good Luck.

thanks!

One more thing, my opt expires in may, so i have to apply for h1b before may. Once I get approval, I can keep working even after may??

Yes- under CAP policy. However, you must apply through CAP to continue the existing work.

no

the non profit will either have to be GOV or higher education affiliated institutuon.....not all non profit qualify for cap exempt!!