Physical Address
60 Ekwema Cres, Layout 460281, Imo
How To Register a Foundation in Kenya Online | Full Guide
Opening a foundation in Kenya has never been more accessible since you can now open it online. If you’ve been wondering how to register a foundation in Kenya online, it’s an easy process once you know the steps.
If your vision is to help education, health, or empowerment in communities, learning how to register a charity foundation in Kenya is the first step in creating a lasting difference.
The reality is that many Kenyans have great ideas for the good of society, but are stuck because they do not know the foundation registration requirements or how to do it lawfully.
The registration of foundations in Kenya is done by the Non-Governmental Organizations Coordination Board, and most of the process is now conducted online. So instead of moving from one office to another, you can do everything from your computer or even from your mobile phone just like when you’re applying for an eCitizen service.
Here, we take you through registering a foundation in Kenya step by step. You will learn the crucial requirements, what documents you will need, what fees you will pay, and what to expect after submitting your application.
At the end of it all, not only will you be able to start your foundation, but you will be sure enough to start giving back to society in the right way.
What Is a Foundation and Why Register One?
A foundation is a type of nonprofit organization formed for the advancement of a charitable purpose or social goal. It can engage in activities like education, health, alleviation of poverty, protection of the environment, or community development.
Registration of a foundation in Kenya provides it with the legal status, under which it can open bank accounts, get grants or donations, and do business openly within the law. It also builds trust with stakeholders, donors, and beneficiaries.
Read Also – How to Register for SHA in Kenya | Full Guide
Why Foundations Are Important in Kenya
Kenyans are people with large hearts. No matter whether they work among orphans, empower the youth, fight poverty, or assist in conserving the environment, foundations have become one of the biggest ways to make an impact. The majority of families, individuals, and even small groups start charity foundations to benefit society.
In fact, just look around, and you’ll see many examples: from big national foundations like the Safaricom Foundation, to tiny ones in your hometown helping children go to school.
And the good news is that the government recognizes foundations as legitimate organizations once they are registered. That means you can collect funds, apply for grants, and implement your projects effectively without being labelled “illegal.”.
Also Read – How to Register a Business Name in Kenya Online | Full Guide
How to Register a Foundation in Kenya Online
Foundation registration in Kenya is provided online mainly via two avenues: the Companies Registry under the Companies Act or the Registrar of Societies. Most charitable foundations register as Companies Limited by Guarantee (CLG) using the Business Registration Service (BRS) on the eCitizen portal. Procedures are as follows:
1. Name Reservation
Begin by reserving a distinctive name for your foundation on the eCitizen portal. Your foundation’s mission should be the basis of the name, and it should not conflict with other organizations. You may apply for a maximum of three options in preferred order. Name reservation takes 3-5 days.
2. Prepare Incorporation Documents
You will require some documents:
- A Trust Deed or Memorandum and Articles of Association outlining the foundation’s objectives, governance, and rules for operation.
- Details of directors or trustees, for example, copies of national ID or passport, KRA PINs, recent passport photographs, residence address, telephone numbers, and email addresses.
- Completely filled-out forms CR1 (application for registration), CR2 (memorandum of guarantee), CR7 (appointment of directors), and CR8 (notice of registered office).
3. Submit Application on eCitizen
Upload all the required forms and documents via the BRS section of the eCitizen portal. Attach supporting documents such as proof of physical address and trust deed. Submit the application fee online. Ensure that all documents are clear and complete to allow for fast processing.
4. Vetting and Approval
The National Intelligence Service conducts background checks on the directors/trustees, which last a maximum of 21 days. The registrar then processes your application and issues the Certificate of Incorporation, officially making your foundation a legal entity.
5. Post-Registration Compliance
After registration, you can seek tax exemption, register for a Personal Identification Number (PIN), open a bank account, and fulfill annual reporting and auditing requirements.
Read Also – How to Register, Check Your Details, and Get Your PVC on the INEC Portal
Requirements for Foundation Registration in Kenya
To register a foundation, you will require:
- Reserved a unique name on the eCitizen platform
- Trust Deed or Constitution that describes the foundation’s purposes, governance, and working procedures
- Minimum three trustees or board members with valid identification and contacts
- Physical address for the registered office of the foundation in Kenya
- Completed registration forms (CR1, CR2, CR7, CR8) as required by the Companies Registry
- Electronic IDs or passport scans of trustees
- Recent passport photos of trustees
- KRA PINs for trustees
- Payment of registration fees
Having a clear direction and a good governance framework intact ensures your application is successful. The documents should clearly state how the foundation will operate, hold money, and be transparent.
How Much Does It Cost to Register a Foundation in Kenya Online?
Costs vary, but expect to pay around Ksh 50,000 to Ksh 100,000 for the registration fees alone, depending on the type and size of the foundation.
Other professional fees, like lawyers’ charges to draft trust deeds or articles of association, can increase the cost. On average, the total cost can reach Ksh 500,00,0, including vetting and post-registration requirements.
The good news is that official government fees through the eCitizen portal are affordable, and you pay for what you use. Foundations start small and grow bigger as they acquire donors and funds.
Also Read – How to Register & Use the New NIMC Self Service Portal in 2025
How to Start a Foundation with No Capital in Kenya
It is possible to start a foundation with minimal capital, but it needs creativity and dedication:
- Begin Small and Frugal: Utilize basic templates and zero-cost online resources to write your constitution. Most NGOs provide sample templates that can be modified.
- Be Trustees Yourself: Recruit enthusiastic volunteers as trustees who also dedicate their resources and time.
- Utilize Free Online Registration: Register your foundation online via eCitizen, where the charges are minimal.
- Fundraise Early: Fund early seed capital using social media and local networks to cover minimal costs. Local businesses and craftspeople can give.
- Partner with Existing NGOs: Collaborate for mentorship, using their infrastructure, and cooperative activities.
- Seek Waivers or Grants: Some legal aid organizations or institutions offer fee waivers or pro bono legal aid for startups with limited funds.
All large foundations started small. The key thing is to have a clearly defined purpose, be organized, and build donor and volunteer relationships.
Also Read – How to Register your Nigerian Company in the US and UK
Foundation Registration Kenya: Important Tips
- Ensure all documents are correct before filing in order to avoid delays in processing time.
- Keep all electronic receipts and certificates in case of future compliance and auditing.
- Consult a lawyer or consultant if someone is unsure of preparing their trust deed or handling legal procedures. Expert service avoids mistakes.
- Make sure that trustees are aware of their roles and duties to run the foundation transparently.
- Use the registered office address of the foundation on all formal communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to register a foundation?
Normally, 30 to 60 days, subject to completeness of papers and vetting processes.
What is the legislative framework on foundations in Kenya?
Majority of the Companies Act 2015 (for CLGs), the Trustees (Perpetual Succession) Act, the Societies Act 1990, and the Public Benefits Organizations Act 2013.
Can a foundation be registered as a charity?
Yes, a foundation can be registered as a charitable trust or company limited by guarantee with a charitable object.
Is online registration mandatory?
Online registration via the eCitizen portal is now the standard and most efficient way.
Can foreigners serve as trustees?
Yes, but they must present valid passports and be vetted.
Conclusion
There you have it, now that you understand precisely how to register a foundation in Kenya online, the requirements for registering a foundation, and even how to begin a foundation with no or little money.
Finally, registering a foundation is more than paperwork. It’s about passion, persistence, and changing lives. Whether your calling is to educate children, feed families, or stop climate change, your foundation can be the spark that changes lives.
Don’t be intimidated by the process. Sign up for that eCitizen account today, start small, and watch your dream unfold. Kenya needs more people like you to change lives.
If you find this piece useful, kindly leave a comment and follow for more updates
Facebook at Silicon Africa
Instagram at Siliconafricatech
Twitter at @siliconafritech.
References
- www.tuko.co.ke – How to register a foundation in Kenya: Simple requirements
- capitaregistrars.co.ke – Registration of a charitable trust or foundation in Kenya
Recommendations
