Brief of the project
In Alberta involves several steps, including deciding on the structure, preparing necessary documentation, registering with the appropriate authorities, and ensuring compliance with ongoing requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Decide on the Structure
Determine the legal structure of your not-for-profit organization. In Alberta, you can choose between incorporating provincially or federally. Most organizations opt for provincial incorporation.
Choose a Name
- Name Search: Conduct a NUANS (Newly Upgraded Automated Name Search) report to ensure the name is unique and not already in use.
- Reserve the Name: You can reserve the name through the Alberta Corporate Registry.
Draft the Bylaws and Constitution
- Bylaws: Draft the bylaws that will govern the operation of your organization. This includes membership criteria, the role of directors, meeting procedures, etc.
- Constitution: Draft your organization’s constitution, outlining its purpose, mission, and structure.
Prepare the Incorporation Documents
Articles of Incorporation: Prepare the Articles of Incorporation, which include the organization’s name, purpose, and structure.- Incorporators: List the names and addresses of the incorporators.
File for Incorporation
- Provincial Incorporation: File the necessary documents with the Alberta Corporate Registry.
- Documents Needed: Articles of Incorporation, NUANS report, Notice of Address, and Notice of Directors.
- Fee: Pay the applicable filing fee.
- Federal Incorporation: If you choose federal incorporation, file with Corporations Canada.
- Documents Needed: Articles of Incorporation, NUANS report, Initial Registered Office Address and First Board of Directors, and filing fee.
Obtain an Alberta Society Number (if applicable)
- If you are incorporating as a society under the Societies Act, you need to file with the Alberta Registries and obtain an Alberta Society Number.
Apply for a Business Number and Tax Exemptions
- Canada Revenue Agency (CRA): Apply for a business number from the CRA. This number is necessary for tax purposes and other regulatory filings.
- Charitable Status: If your organization plans to operate as a charity, apply for charitable status with the CRA to issue tax receipts for donations.
Set Up Governance and Management
Board of Directors: Establish a board of directors to oversee the organization’s activities.- Officers: Appoint key officers (e.g., President, Secretary, Treasurer).
Develop Operational Policies
- Create policies and procedures for the day-to-day operation of the organization, including financial management, fundraising, volunteer management, and program delivery.
Register for Provincial Programs and Licenses
- Depending on the activities of your organization, you may need to register for additional licenses or permits.
Compliance and Reporting
- Annual Returns: File annual returns with the Alberta Corporate Registry to maintain your incorporation status.
- Financial Statements: Prepare and maintain accurate financial statements.
- Meetings: Hold regular meetings of the board of directors and members as specified in your bylaws.
Open a Bank Account
- Open a bank account in the name of the not-for-profit organization to manage its finances.
Fundraising and Donations
Develop a fundraising plan and start collecting donations to support your organization’s mission and activities.
Additional Resources
- [Alberta Corporate Registry](https://www.alberta.ca/corporate-registry.aspx)- [Service Alberta – Incorporating a Society](https://www.alberta.ca/incorporate-a-society.aspx)
[Canada Revenue Agency – Registering a Charity](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/charities-giving/charities/registering-charity.html)
It is advisable to consult with a legal expert or an accountant such as KAD Consulting Services Professional Corporation specializing in not-for-profit organizations to ensure all legal and regulatory requirements are met.