Founders of NGOs, churches, mosques, and associations often assume registration works the same way as a regular business. It doesn't.
Incorporated Trustees, Not a Business Name or Company
Non-profit and religious organisations register as Incorporated Trustees, with a distinct requirement: a governing constitution setting out your objectives and internal structure.
You Need Trustees, Not Shareholders
A minimum of two trustees is required, though most organisations register with between two and seven, holding governance responsibility rather than ownership.
Expect a Longer Timeline
Incorporated Trustee applications undergo additional CAC review and, in many cases, require newspaper publication — pushing typical timelines to 3–6 weeks.
Why This Matters Before You Fundraise
Most grant-makers and institutional donors require proof of formal registration before releasing funds — start the process well before fundraising conversations begin.
Not sure how this applies to your business? Every situation has details that change the answer. Book a free consultation and we'll walk through your specific case.