17 steps to starting a nonprofit in illinois Give your organization a name. Choose your mission statement. Identify your vision and values. Create a business plan. Choose your incorporators, directors, and officers. Recruit your registered agent. File your articles of incorporation. Receive Employer Identification Number (EIN)
There must be at least three directors. They do not have to be Illinois residents or corporation members, but you may require these and any other qualifications you choose.
Corporate bylaws are legally required in Illinois. Illinois statute §805 ILCS 5/2.20 requires that bylaws be adopted either by shareholders at the first shareholder meeting or by directors at the initial director meeting.
The Big Picture Follow the steps below to start a nonprofit organization in Illinois. Pick a name. The name must be unique. Appoint a registered agent. Choose your board of directors. State your charitable purpose. File your articles of incorporation. Create bylaws.
Corporate bylaws are legally required in Illinois. Illinois statute §805 ILCS 5/2.20 requires that bylaws be adopted either by shareholders at the first shareholder meeting or by directors at the initial director meeting.
You not only have a duty to understand your bylaws, you are legally accountable for following them. This is not optional. A court of law will side with your bylaws in any dispute brought by another board member, an employee, volunteer or recipient of services who may have a grievance.
Start Your Corporate Bylaws StateBylaws Required? California No Colorado No Connecticut Yes Delaware Yes47 more rows