Bylaws, letters patent, and constitutions

When an organization in Canada seeks incorporation, it is necessary for them to have a consitution, bylaws, and letters of patent in place. In this podcast, Adam explains each of these terms, describes what types of information must be included in each document, and suggests where organizations can go for more information on preparing them.

Bylaws, letters patent, and constitutions

Appearing before government committees

Appearing before a government committee can be a nerve-wracking experience for many nonprofit leaders and employees. But nonprofits and charities have a unique role to play in helping to inform government in all levels, especially since so many across Canada have access to research and information that is just not available elsewhere. This podcasts explains how appearing before government is related to, but not necessarily the same thing as, engaging in political activities such as lobbying and advocacy.

Appearing before government committees

Introduction to the Goods and Services Tax

Understanding how the Goods and Services Tax (GST) works is important to all Canadians. In this podcast, find out exactly what the GST is and how it works, whether it is similar to PST in some provinces, as well as how to register for a GST number and how to get a GST tax return.

Introduction to the Goods and Services Tax

Starting a nonprofit organization

There are lots of worthy causes out there and you might be a champion for one of them, but should you start a nonprofit organization to support that cause, and what do you need to know if you do decide to give it a go? Adam Aptowitzer, a lawyer with the Ottawa-based law firm Drache LLP, explains the difference between a charity and a not-for-profit, the benefits of incorporation, minimum board member requirements, and federal versus provincial incorporation.

Starting a nonprofit organization (MP3)