Difference between revisions of "How to Start an NGO"

From NGO Handbook
(4. Chose a Name)
(5. Write Articles of Incorporation)
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== 5. Write Articles of Incorporation ==
 
== 5. Write Articles of Incorporation ==
  
The articles of incorporation should provide a legal description of the NGO assigning power to the board. Once drafted, they should be submitted to the board for final approval before registration.  The information that should be included in the articles varies between local state governments and also from country to country. Depending on what country the NGO is being formed in, it is important to check with local and federal governments to see what kind of forms need to be filled out and what should be included. The following are general examples of what is often expected:
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The articles of incorporation should provide a legal description of the NGO assigning power to the board. Once drafted, they should be submitted to the board for final approval before registration.<ref>Fritz, Joanne. (2008). </ref> The information that should be included in the articles varies between local state governments and also from country to country. Depending on what country the NGO is being formed in, it is important to check with local and federal governments to see what kind of forms need to be filled out and what should be included. The following are general examples of what is often expected:
 
*Name of the NGO
 
*Name of the NGO
 
*Purpose/Mission
 
*Purpose/Mission
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*Extent of personal liability
 
*Extent of personal liability
 
*Whether or not the NGO has capital stock (usually it will not)
 
*Whether or not the NGO has capital stock (usually it will not)
*How long the NGO is expected to exist (this may be declared as everlasting).
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*How long the NGO is expected to exist (this may be declared as everlasting).<ref>Hummel, Joan M. (1996). </ref>
  
 
== 6. Draft Bylaws ==
 
== 6. Draft Bylaws ==

Revision as of 12:17, 23 July 2008

Starting an NGO can be a very time-consuming process. It requires a strong vision and dedication from an individual or group that share a common concern about a community. If initiated correctly in an organized and strategic way, the services implemented to benefit the community can be very helpful and resourceful.[1]

The following presents nine steps, in general chronological order, that are useful in the formation of an NGO. This paper acts as a broad “how to” guideline and these issues may vary depending on each NGO. It is important to realize that these situations also vary from country to country, as each one has its own specific requirements and recommendations.


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