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Getting started

Starting a not-for-profit organisation but not sure where to begin? We're here to help. We’ll guide your new organisation through key legal decisions.

Content last updated 21/08/2024

Getting started


Getting Started Tool: A free online tool

Need help making key legal decisions? Our self-help tool will ask you a series of questions about your new organisation - in plain and simple English - and will help determine the best way forward.


  • be able carry out its activities effectively, and in a way that complies with the law 
  • minimise the chance the group will run into legal difficulties (and costs) as it grows or changes, and 
  • be in a better position to deal with legal issues if they do occur 

Next steps

Once a community group is clear about its aims, membership and activities, it’s important for the group to decide whether to operate as a not-for-profit organisation or a for-profit organisation. View our resources on what not-for-profit means.



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