OLBA Program to Support Club Incorporation
Benefits of Incorporating as a Nonprofit
While incorporating a business (your club) as a nonprofit organization provides several advantages, nonprofit status comes with specific legal and operational responsibilities. The benefits typically outweigh the challenges for organizations such as lawn bowling clubs.
Benefits may include potential tax benefits, liability protection, funding opportunities, and increased credibility. Obligations include filing annual reports and adhering to operational restrictions
Goal of OLBA Program
To support member clubs of the Ontario Lawn Bowls Association (OLBA) to incorporate leading to enhanced governance and increased opportunities for funding. The program is called Club Incorporation Support Program (CISI).
Program Requirements
To be eligible for the CISI program a club must meet the following criteria:
Successfully complete the incorporation process in 2025 or later
Initiate the process to draft club policies that address at a minimum Safe Sport, harassment, complaints, code of conduct, appeals, dispute resolution and finances
The OLBA’s policies are posted on the OLBA website and clubs can adapt those policies.
Funding and Procedures
Clubs can receive up to 75% of the costs to complete incorporation of their club, up to a maximum of $500 per club, provided there are sufficient funds available in the OLBA budget.
Clubs must provide the following documentation to the Grant Chair:
- A detailed receipt that clearly indicates the costs of incorporation with HST itemized
- Proof of incorporation status
- Documentation regarding policies, e.g. board minutes, annual general meeting minutes, draft policies and bylaws
The Grants Chair will review the application, including documentation, and, if approved, send to the Treasurer for payment.
To apply for the program member clubs should contact the Grants/Incorporating Chair at grants@olba.ca.
