Ontario Non-Profit Organization Registration — Fast Online Setup
Incorporate your Ontario non-profit organization quickly and compliantly online. Ideal for charities, clubs, associations, community groups, and social/educational causes. Get Arti... +
- Government Authorized
- Lawyer‑Reviewed
- No Hidden Fees
2-Hour Rush Available
Lawyer‑Drafted Documents
100% Online Process
Transparent Pricing
What is The Ontario Non-Profit Organizations
Ontario Non-Profit Organizations are legal entities incorporated to serve specifically for organizations that operate for social, religious, charitable, educational, or community benefit purposes without the intention of generating a profit for its members.
These organizations form to provide services or benefits to the community without seeking financial gain for their directors or members.
Purpose of Non-Profit Corporation
The primary goal of a not-for-profit corporation is not to earn profit. The primary goal of a not-for-profit corporation is to serve a public benefit, such as providing charitable services, promoting education, or advancing social or cultural causes. Any profits generated are reinvested into the organization to support its stated objectives
Board Governance: Non-profit organizations in Ontario typically have a governing board of directors or trustees who oversee the organization’s operations, ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and guide the organization toward fulfilling its mission.
Charitable Status: Many nonprofits in Ontario seek charitable status, which grants them certain tax advantages and the ability to issue tax receipts for donations made to the organization. Charitable organizations must meet specific requirements outlined by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Membership and Funding: Not-for-profit corporations do not have shareholders. They have members who may have voting rights depending on the organization’s bylaws. Funding can come from various sources, including grants, donations, membership fees, and fundraising activities.
Regulatory Environment: Not-for-profit corporations in Ontario must comply with the ONCA. They need to comply with some requirements for financial record-keeping, annual meetings, and filing annual returns.
Tax Benefits: In certain cases, not-for-profit corporations may be eligible for tax exemptions or deductions.
Types of Not-for-Profit Corporations in Ontario
Charitable Non-profit organizations: These corporations are formed to provide charitable services or promote charitable purposes.
Non-profit organizations: These corporations are formed for a variety of purposes, including promoting education, science, art, literature, and so on.
Community-based non-profit organizations: These corporations are specifically formed to benefit a particular community or geographic area.
To incorporate a not-for-profit organization in Ontario, you must meet the following requirements
Choose a Name for Ontario Non-Profit Organization: The name must be distinctive and not confusingly similar to the name of any other existing corporation. Legal suffix (Ltd., Inc.” incorporated,” “limited,” or “société en commandite”) , is not mandatory for a non-profit organization but if anyone wants they can use it.
Purpose Statement: The purpose must be non-profit and beneficial for the public. In articles of Incorporation corporation’s purpose or mission must be stated clearly.
Directors: At least 3 directors are needed to incorporate an Ontario non-profit organization. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Registered Office address: The registered office of a Non-Profit Organization must be within Ontario. Where official documents will be kept and received from other parties.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Ontario Non-Profit Corporation Registration – Fast & Compliant Setup
An Ontario non-profit corporation is the ideal legal structure for charities, community groups, clubs, associations, sports leagues, arts organizations, and social causes. It protects directors with limited liability, allows tax-exempt status once registered as a charity with CRA, and provides credibility when applying for grants or donations.
Incorporation is done under the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA). We handle everything online – including object clauses, member/director structure, bylaws, initial return, and full minute book – ensuring ONCA compliance and preparing you for future charity registration.
Why Ontario Non-Profits Choose Us for Incorporation
Real Experts: We’ve incorporated thousands of Ontario non-profits since 2012 – from small community groups to large charities – always approved without issues.
Speed Without Stress: Most approvals in hours to 1–2 days, with rush service available when you need to start fundraising fast.
Transparent Pricing: Clear fixed fees (government costs included) – no hidden charges for filings, searches, or add-ons.
100% Online: Complete your non-profit incorporation from anywhere – no paperwork, mailing, or ServiceOntario visits.
Trusted Province-Wide: Used by charities, clubs, associations, and community organizations across Toronto, Ottawa, Mississauga, Hamilton, London, Kitchener, and Northern Ontario.
Ready to incorporate your Ontario non-profit and start making an impact?
Incorporate Online in 3 Easy Steps
01
Tell Us About Your Business
Fill our secure form in as little as 10 minutes.
02
We File the Paperwork
03
Receive Your Documents
What’s Included
- Articles of Incorporation (customizable)
- Corporate Bylaws & Minute Book (PDF)
- CRA Business Number & Corporate Tax ID
- Named or Numbered Corporation
- Expert review by our registry agent
Popular Add‑Ons
- NUANS report & name reservation
- Corporate kit (binder, seal, share certificates)
- CRA GST/HST, Payroll, Import‑Export accounts
- Annual return filing & compliance support
- Domain name & website starter bundle
Expand & Manage Ontario Business Confidently – Business Ontario
Ontario Regular Corporations
Register Non-Profit Organization
Business Name Registration
Client Reviews Business Ontario
Incorporated a professional corporation (law firm) with business-ontario.ca. Their article of corporation pretty standard one with no restrictions on it. I was kind of worried, but after service seems they have excellent lawyers. Great job.
I am fully satisfied with their service.
The team is very responsive, handled all transactions without error, and delivered required documents faster than expected. I had a last minute issue (my fault) that may have negatively impacted an important business transaction - I explained the situation and the Business Ontario team made it a priority and was able to resolve and expedite in near real time - saving me time and dollars.
Your customer focus and professionalism is much appreciated!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to incorporate my non-profit in Ontario?
No, you can operate as an unincorporated association, but incorporation is strongly recommended. It protects personal assets, adds credibility for grants and donations, and is mandatory for registered charity status.
How long does it take to incorporate a non-profit in Ontario?
With our service, most approvals are received in 1–2 business days (often the same day). We file electronically through the Ontario Business Registry for the fastest processing.
What’s the difference between a non-profit and a charity?
All registered charities are non-profits, but not all non-profits are charities. A non-profit can have broader purposes; a registered charity must meet CRA rules for tax receipts and tax-exempt status. We set up your non-profit ready for future charity application.
Can a non-profit have members or directors?
Yes. Most non-profits are membership-based (voting members) or have only directors. We help you choose the right structure – membership or non-membership – based on your goals.
Do Ontario non-profits pay taxes?
Non-profits are generally exempt from corporate income tax on non-commercial activities, but may need to pay HST and other taxes. Registered charities get additional exemptions and can issue donation receipts.
How much does it cost to incorporate a non-profit in Ontario?
Our packages start affordably with government fees included. You’ll see the full price upfront – no hidden charges for bylaws, minute book, or initial filings.
Can non-profits pay salaries or have employees?
Yes! Non-profits can hire staff and pay reasonable salaries. The key is that no profits are distributed to members or directors.
Do I need a NUANS name search for a non-profit?
Yes, if you want a named corporation. We include a Canada-wide NUANS report to ensure your name is unique and compliant.
Can I incorporate a non-profit if I’m not in Ontario?
Yes – as long as the corporation has an Ontario address (we can provide one if needed). Directors don’t have to live in Ontario.
Insights & Guides for Business Ontario
How to Register a Medicine Professional Corporation in Ontario
How to Register a Medicine Professional Corporation in Ontario Physicians in Ontario who want to practice their medicine through a corporation can only do so by forming an Ontario professional
General Partnership Registration in Ontario – Fast & Simple Process
General Partnership Registration in Ontario – Fast & Simple Process Register your General Partnership in Ontario with Business Ontario. Get expert help with name searches, filings, and more. What is
How to Register Ontario Incorporation?- Guide for All
What is Ontario Incorporation Ontario incorporation is a legal entity that is incorporated or registered under the Ontario Business Corporation Act. (OBCA). Like an individual Ontario corporation has its own
Personal Real Estate Corporation (PREC) Ontario
Personal Real Estate Corporation (PREC) Ontario As of October 1, 2020, Ontario real estate agents are allowed to incorporate Personal Real Estate Corporations. Ontario Personal Real Estate Corporation also know
How to incorporate Ontario Non Profit Corporation?
How to incorporate Ontario Non Profit Corporation? Ontario Non Profit Corporation (NPO) might be the perfect structure for you if you think to form a dedicate group to good welfare
How to Incorporate Ontario Professional Corporation: Everything You Need to Know
How to Incorporate Ontario Professional Corporation: In Ontario, licensed professionals such as accountants, lawyers, and health practitioners, as well as other licensed professionals, have a unique opportunity to Register a