How to Start an NGO
Register the Organization
After a name is chosen and the bylaws and articles are written, it is necessary to register or incorporate the organization within its local government. In most countries, there are specific people in governmental departments that work in registering an NGO and distributing the compulsory forms in which to do so. The documents to be submitted vary between countries, but in most cases information about the board members, mission statement, and staff members is required and the articles and/or bylaws are essential.
Hold an Initial Board of Directors Meeting
Once the NGO is legally incorporated (through an issued charter in most cases) an initial board of directors meeting should be held. The board members should officially adopt the bylaws in the first meeting because they should explain how the board functions. (In some countries the bylaws will already be established at this point by the incorporators depending on the governmental requirements.) The first meeting is important in establishing officers, committees, and discussing preliminary projects.
