Starting a Non-Profit Organisation in Singapore: Step-by-Step Guide

Singapore is widely regarded as one of Asia’s most trusted and stable jurisdictions for establishing mission-driven entities. Its transparent regulations, robust governance standards, and strong philanthropic culture make it an attractive location for non-profit organisations seeking long-term impact. This guide provides a comprehensive, professionally constructed overview of how to set up a non-profit organisation in Singapore, the regulatory options available, and the essential compliance obligations every founder must understand.

 

1. Overview of Non-Profit Organisations in Singapore

Before initiating nonprofit registration, founders must first determine the most suitable legal structure. In Singapore, non-profit organisations typically fall under three main categories:

 

1.1 Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG)

A CLG is the most professional and versatile structure for an NGO in Singapore, often preferred by charities, social enterprises, and international NGOs.

Key features include:

• No share capital; members guarantee a nominal sum upon winding up.
• Strong governance structure suitable for grant applications and large-scale operations.
• Regulated under the Companies Act and overseen by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).

 

1.2 Society

A Society comprises a group of individuals joined by a common purpose.

Characteristics:

• Governed by the Registry of Societies (ROS).
• Relatively simple setup process.
• Suitable for community groups, interest groups, and volunteer organisations with local operations.

 

1.3 Charitable Trust

A trust is established through a trust deed and managed by trustees.

Key points:

• Used for asset stewardship, scholarships, and long-term charitable funds.
• Regulated under common law and overseen by the Commissioner of Charities (COC).

 

2. Step-by-Step Process to Establish a Non-Profit Organisation in Singapore

The following guide details the full procedural workflow for founders seeking robust and compliant nonprofit registration.

 

Step 1: Define Mission, Objectives, and Beneficiaries

A clear organisational purpose is essential to determine the appropriate structure and future regulatory obligations.

Document:

• Mission statement
• Scope of activities
• Target beneficiaries (local, international, or both)
• Governance principles

This foundational clarity is especially important if the organisation intends to apply for charitable status later.

 

Step 2: Select the Legal Structure

Choose between a CLG, Society, or Trust based on your organisational design.

Key considerations include:

• Scale of operations
• Whether foreign founders are involved
• Fundraising strategies
• Governance and liability requirements

For international NGOs and professionally run entities, a Company Limited by Guarantee is generally the preferred route.

 

Step 3: Reserve Name and Prepare Constitutive Documents

Depending on the structure:

For CLG Registration with ACRA:

• Proposed organisation name
• Constitution (formerly known as Memorandum & Articles of Association)
• Details of officers and members
• Registered office address

For Societies under ROS:

• Proposed society name
• Constitution with clear rules for membership and governance
• Office bearers’ details
• Address for operations

ACRA and ROS will review applications for compliance, name availability, and policy considerations.

 

Step 4: File the Registration

4.1 CLG Registration with ACRA

• Apply via BizFile+
• Pay statutory fees
• Appoint a company secretary within six months of incorporation
• Maintain a registered office

4.2 Registration of a Society with ROS

• Submit the online application via the ROS portal
• Await approval (typically 2–8 weeks, depending on complexity)

Upon approval, the organisation is legally recognised as an NGO in Singapore.

 

Step 5: Apply for Charitable Status (Optional but Beneficial)

An organisation may apply to the Commissioner of Charities to be officially recognised as a charity.

Eligibility criteria:

• Purposes must fall under recognised charitable categories
• Activities must benefit the public
• Strong governance and internal controls must be demonstrable

Advantages:

• Enhanced public trust
• Eligibility to apply for Institution of a Public Character (IPC) status, enabling tax-deductible donations
• Access to certain grants and philanthropic funds

 

Step 6: Establish Governance, Policies, and Internal Controls

Effective governance is essential for reputation and compliance.

Core documents include:

• Board charter
• Conflict-of-interest policy
• Financial management and donation-handling policies
• Data protection frameworks
• Internal audit processes
• Volunteer and staff management procedures

Strong governance also improves access to funding and partnerships.

 

Step 7: Set Up Operational Infrastructure

Ensure practical administration is in place:

• Open a corporate bank account
• Implement accounting and bookkeeping systems
• Draft operational SOPs
• Recruit staff or onboard volunteers
• Establish IT and cybersecurity systems
• Plan fundraising and engagement strategies

Singapore’s regulatory environment places significant emphasis on transparency, particularly for non-profit organisations receiving public funds.

 

Step 8: Maintain Ongoing Compliance

All non-profit organisations in Singapore must uphold regulatory obligations, including:

ACRA-Regulated CLGs

• Annual return filings
• Financial statements (audited or unaudited, depending on thresholds)
• Updating registers of members and officers
• Regular board meetings and resolutions

Societies

• Filing annual submissions to ROS
• Updating changes in the constitution or office bearers

Charities and IPCs

• Annual reports and audited financial statements
• Fundraising reporting
• Strict governance and conflict-of-interest compliance

Non-compliance may result in penalties, suspension, or deregistration.

 

3. Choosing the Right Structure for Your NGO

Legal Structure	Governing Authority	Best For	Key Advantages
Company Limited by Guarantee	ACRA	Professional charities, international NGOs, and grant-seeking entities	Strong governance, high credibility, and access to grants
Society	ROS	Community groups, membership-based organisations	Simple setup, cost-effective
Charitable Trust	COC	Philanthropic funds, endowments, and long-term asset management	High asset protection, ideal for legacy planning

 

4. Why Singapore is Ideal for Non-Profit Organisations

Key benefits include:

• Stable regulatory environment
• Strong reputation for transparency and governance
• Access to philanthropic networks and regional donors
• Ease of doing business
• Skilled workforce and volunteers
• Strategic location for Southeast Asia outreach

These advantages make the jurisdiction exceptionally attractive for the establishment of non-profit organisations in Singapore and internationally oriented NGOs.

 

Conclusion

Establishing a non-profit organisation in Singapore involves a structured and transparent process designed to safeguard public interest and enhance organisational integrity. Whether forming a CLG, Society, or Trust, founders must carefully assess governance needs, compliance obligations, and future growth plans. With proper planning, NGOs in Singapore benefit from strong credibility, efficient regulatory frameworks, and long-term operational stability.