Applying for Charitable Status Working Session

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?

• Step-by-step support through the CRA’s charity application—walk away with your documents ready to submit.

• Make informed decisions about registering under Ontario’s Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA) vs. the Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (CNCA).

• Learn what it really takes to qualify as a charity—and how to maintain your status once approved.

• Understand key legal intersections—like fundraising rules, employment law, and board governance—all from a nonprofit perspective.

• Save thousands in legal fees. A simple Charity Registration will likely cost $4-6000 and a med. to complex $12,000.

• Collaborate and network with other changemakers going through the same process.

Fee:

• Flat fee: $250/ Organisation

• It is recommended that each organisation bring 2 people to the session. Please include the name of the 2nd participant in the additional information box on the registration page.

Session Format

• Full-day immersive workshop (8 hours including breaks and lunch)

• Designed for rich discussion and hands-on application building

• Group participation encouraged—send two in-person, or a mix of in-person and online attendees (where applicable)

What You’ll Learn and Do

By the end of this session, you will:

• Understand the differences between ONCA and CNCA and choose the right path for your organization

• Know the CRA’s charitable requirements—and how to frame your mission, programs, and public benefit

• Work through a 60+ page workbook which ensures you have all the information at your fingertips as you fill in the online registration forms.

• 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:

• Guides participants through process of selecting between Ontario’s Not-for-Profit Corporations Act and the Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act

• Provides an overview of requirements to qualify and expectations to maintain charitable status

• Guides participants step-by-step through filling in the charity application forms

• 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:

• A nearly finalized charitable application—ready for review and submission

• A legal roadmap for charitable compliance

• 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.