Nonprofit
A broad term for organisations created to serve a public or community purpose rather than distribute profits to private owners.
A practical reference
What does that mean anyway?
The nonprofit sector has a culture and language all its own. These definitions offer a useful starting point for navigating the work.
Charitable organisation
An organisation organised and operated for charitable, educational, religious, scientific, or other qualifying purposes.
Churches and religious organisations
Many may qualify for exemption from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3).
Private foundation
Often has a single major funding source and typically makes grants to charitable organisations or individuals.
Not-for-profit sector
The ecosystem of organisations working for community benefit rather than private profit.
Industry
The field or area of work in which an organisation operates.
Grant
Funding awarded for a defined purpose, often by a foundation or government body.
Donor
A person or organisation that gives money, goods, or other resources to support a mission.
Donation
A gift of money, goods, time, or services in support of an organisation.
Sponsor
A business or organisation that provides financial or in-kind support, often connected to an event or programme.
Sponsorship
Support provided in exchange for a defined acknowledgement or benefit.
Governance
The systems, roles, and practices through which an organisation is directed and held accountable.
Best practice
A method widely regarded as effective, responsible, and appropriate for the situation.
Bylaws
The high-level rules that govern how an organisation is structured and makes decisions.
Articles of incorporation
The founding document filed to create a corporation with the state.
Minutes
The formal record of actions and decisions made during a meeting.
Board of directors
The governing group with legal and fiduciary responsibility for an organisation.
Board member
A person serving on the governing board, with duties to the organisation and its mission.
Fundraising
The work of building financial resources for an organisation’s mission.
Profit/loss
A financial statement showing revenue, expenses, and the resulting surplus or deficit.
IRS status
An organisation’s federal tax status and related reporting obligations.
Incorporation
The legal process of forming a corporation.
Form 990
An annual federal information return filed by many tax-exempt organisations.
Form CT-12
An Oregon annual report required for charitable organisations registered in the state.
The materials available on this site are for informational purposes only and are not legal advice. Contact an attorney for advice about a particular issue or problem.