This episode offers practical advice for individuals considering founding a Canadian nonprofit organization.

It emphasizes the importance of self-reflection regarding motivations and ensuring a genuine need exists for the proposed organization.

The discussion highlights key considerations such as developing a sound business plan, exploring various organizational structures, and understanding the differences between nonprofits and charities.

It also addresses the realities of the commitment involved, including administrative burdens and the need for self-care.

Furthermore, the episode outlines the incorporation process, essential documents, post-incorporation requirements like bylaws and board development, and ongoing legal and financial obligations.

Finally, it touches upon the challenges of "Founder's Syndrome" and provides a self-assessment checklist to help potential founders determine their readiness.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs.

https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

https://www.charityaccountingfirm.ca/
P: 289-301-8883

This episode provides guidance to Canadian charities on preparing for and managing audits by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

It highlights the potential consequences of audits, including revocation of charitable status and reputational damage.

The discussion details the CRA audit process, common audit triggers, and possible outcomes, ranging from education letters to revocation.

Furthermore, it outlines steps charities can take to prepare for an audit, such as maintaining proper documentation and seeking professional support.

Finally, the episode identifies common audit issues like inadequate record-keeping and impermissible political activities, emphasizing proactive compliance and professional advice to mitigate risks.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs.

https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

https://www.charityaccountingfirm.ca/
P: 289-301-8883

This episode addresses the rewards and risks involved in hiring a celebrity for charity marketing.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs.

https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

https://www.charityaccountingfirm.ca/
P: 289-301-8883

This episode outlines the CRA's recommended due diligence approach for grant-making to non-qualified donees (i.e., non charities), emphasizing alignment with charitable purpose and risk assessment.

The model stresses collaboration, accountability, and thorough documentation for responsible grant management.

Consistent application of these principles protects the charity and acknowledges necessary administrative expenses.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs.

https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

https://www.charityaccountingfirm.ca/
P: 289-301-8883

This episode provides a thorough outline of how Canadian charities can safeguard their assets against various legal and financial threats.

The discussion emphasizes the importance of comprehensive asset management, including meticulous financial record-keeping and strategic insurance coverage.

Protecting organizational identity through trademark registration and carefully managing facility usage are also highlighted as key strategies.

Continuous improvement and good governance are essential for long-term sustainability and maintaining donor trust.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs.

https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

https://www.charityaccountingfirm.ca/
P: 289-301-8883

This episode clarifies the Canada Revenue Agency's (CRA) criteria, which involves common law and the Income Tax Act.

The CRA focuses on whether the organization's belief system qualifies as a religion and whether its purposes and activities advance that religion. Requirements include belief in a Supreme Being, worship, and a comprehensive system of faith.

To "advance" religion means to promote belief through activities materially connected to religious teachings.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs.

https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

https://www.charityaccountingfirm.ca/
P: 289-301-8883

This episode provides guidance on accurately filing a Canadian charity's T3010 tax return, emphasizing the importance of meeting deadlines, providing complete information, and correctly reporting activities.

It highlights potential pitfalls such as inaccurate financial reporting and improper descriptions of charitable activities.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs.

https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

https://www.charityaccountingfirm.ca/
P: 289-301-8883

This episode emphasizes the importance of a well-designed and legally compliant website for Canadian charities. The episode highlights crucial aspects like transparently conveying the charity's mission and activities, ensuring legal compliance in online fundraising, and avoiding conflicts of interest. It stresses the need for accurate financial reporting and discourages the promotion of unrelated commercial interests. Finally, the episode advocates for user-friendly website design to enhance the charity's online presence and attract support.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs.

https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

https://www.charityaccountingfirm.ca/
P: 289-301-8883