Are you ready to take the next bold step and become a registered charity? Applying for charitable status is a vital move that can open doors to new funding streams, tax advantages, and public trust—but the process can be complex, time-consuming, and costly.
This full-day working session is designed to demystify the charitable registration process and provide hands-on support to get your application done right—the first time.
Why Attend?
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Step-by-step support through the CRA’s charity application—walk away with your documents ready to submit.
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Make informed decisions about registering under Ontario’s Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA) vs. the Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (CNCA).
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Learn what it really takes to qualify as a charity—and how to maintain your status once approved.
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Understand key legal intersections—like fundraising rules, employment law, and board governance—all from a nonprofit perspective.
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Save thousands in legal fees. A simple Charity Registration will likely cost $4-6000 and a med. to complex $12,000.
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Collaborate and network with other changemakers going through the same process.
Important Session Details
Full-Day Working Session (8 hrs):
This is a hands-on session where you’ll actively complete applications and forms using your organization's information.
Preparation:
Before the workshop, we’ll reach out with a list of the specific organizational details you’ll need to have on hand to make the most of your time.
Registration:
The registration fee covers your organization. It includes two in-person seats, with additional team members welcome to join via Zoom.
Meals:
Lunch is not included. However, the Sidetrack Café will be open onsite, offering lunch, coffee, and snacks for purchase.
Facilitator Experience:
Staff Lawyer and Policy Advisor at the Ontario Nonprofit Network, Benjamin Miller brings extensive expertise and a dynamic facilitation style to this session, making complex legal processes accessible and engaging.
Session Format
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Full-day immersive workshop (8 hours including breaks and lunch)
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Designed for rich discussion and hands-on application building
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Group participation encouraged—send two in-person, or a mix of in-person and online attendees (where applicable)
By the end of this session, you will:
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Understand the differences between ONCA and CNCA and choose the right path for your organization
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Know the CRA’s charitable requirements—and how to frame your mission, programs, and public benefit
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Work through a 60+ page workbook which ensures you have all the information at your fingertips as you fill in the online registration forms.
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Gain insight into how governance, finance, and legal obligations shift once you’re a registered charity
Session Outline
In this guided working session, an ONN lawyer will walk you through:
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Guides participants through process of selecting between Ontario’s Not-for-Profit Corporations Act and the Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act
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Provides an overview of requirements to qualify and expectations to maintain charitable status
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Guides participants step-by-step through filling in the charity application forms
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Provides practical tips and highlights other areas of law that intersect with charitable governance and operations
Ample time is provided for Q&A, peer sharing, and supported drafting.
Walk Out With:
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A nearly finalized charitable application—ready for review and submission
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A legal roadmap for charitable compliance
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Confidence in your governance setup and eligibility
Join us in London this July and set your nonprofit up for long-term charitable success—without the legal headaches or hidden costs.