Articles of Incorporation of a Non-Profit Entity: Template and How to Complete It

Before the Chamber of Commerce registers your foundation, there's a document that starts everything. Articles of Incorporation of a Non-Profit Organization This document formalizes a group of people's decision to create a non-profit organization, approves its bylaws, and appoints its first officers. Without this signed document, the Chamber of Commerce cannot register the organization, and the Colombian Tax Authority (DIAN) cannot assign it a Tax Identification Number (NIT). Here, we explain what it should contain, who signs it, and how to complete it correctly without errors that will later need correcting.

At Hepacom, we are a foundation (a non-profit organization) that works to provide decent housing for families in Itagüí, so we are very familiar with this process. This guide is for informational purposes only; the registration is handled by the Chamber of Commerce.

What is the articles of incorporation of a non-profit organization and what is it used for?

It is the written record of the meeting in which the founders decide to create the entity. It documents the intention to establish the organization, its name, purpose, approved bylaws, and appointments. This document serves as proof that the non-profit organization was founded with clear rules.

It serves two specific purposes: it's the document the Chamber of Commerce requires to register the entity, and it's the foundation upon which everything else is built, from obtaining a tax identification number (NIT) to opening a bank account. If the articles of incorporation are incorrect, the rest of the process is blocked.

What should the minutes contain?

An incomplete ballot is the number one cause of returns in the House. These are the elements that cannot be missing.

Common mistakes when drafting the minutes

• Corporate purpose copied and pasted: If it is too broad or unrelated to your work, the DIAN may later deny you the Special Tax Regime.
• Acceptance of charges is missing: Appointing the representative is not enough; it must be in writing that they accepted.
• Incomplete signatures or no document: If a signature or ID number is missing, the Chamber returns the application.

Who signs the minutes and how are they approved?

It is signed by all the individuals who make up the entity, which may be one or more depending on the type of non-profit organization. In a foundation, only the founder or founders need to sign; in a corporation or association, several members are required. In addition, whoever was appointed as legal representative and as auditor (if applicable) must confirm their acceptance of the position.

The decisions in the minutes are approved by the assembled constituents. The minutes themselves don't require notarization, but the signatures of those accepting positions usually require notarization or personal appearance at the Chamber. If you're still unsure which structure is right for you, take a look at the difference between foundation, corporation and association.

How to fill it out step by step

The order that worked for us is simple. First, draft the bylaws, because the minutes approve them. Second, convene the founding meeting and write the minutes with all the items on the table. Third, collect signatures and acceptances of positions. Fourth, file the bylaws and forms with the Chamber of Commerce.

Many chambers offer a downloadable report template, and it's a good idea to start with that official format instead of one from the internet. To avoid any loose ends, check the requirements to create a foundation y How much does it cost to create a foundation?, to arrive with everything ready and without surprises.

What comes after the minutes

With the minutes and the approved statutes, you file the registration in the Chamber of Commerce of your city. Once registered, the entity is officially registered and you can apply for the NIT (Tax Identification Number) with the DIAN. Next comes a key step to avoid overpaying: requesting the Special Tax Regime.

If you're starting from scratch, our general guide to How to create a foundation in Colombia Connect all these steps. And if your question is more basic, look at... What is a non-profit organization?.

How Hepacom accompanies you

As a foundation working for decent housing, we know that behind every well-established non-profit organization is a community that wants to organize itself to defend a right. That's why we share what we learned creating and managing our own. We don't handle the paperwork for you (that's done by the Chamber of Commerce), but we do guide you so you can get off to a good start. Write to us at donaciones@hepacom.org or from contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people are needed for a foundation's charter?
A foundation can be established by a single person (the founder). A corporation or association requires several members. In both cases, the articles of incorporation must reflect who participates.

Is the articles of incorporation drawn up at a notary's office?
The document itself can be a private document. What usually requires notarization or personal appearance is the signature of those accepting the positions. Confirm the format with your Chamber.

Can I use a template for minutes from the internet?
As a reference, yes, but it is safer to start from the official model of your Chamber of Commerce and adjust the corporate purpose to your actual work, not copy it from another entity.

What happens if the record contains an error?
The Chamber returns the document with its observations. The minutes are corrected, signed again, and resubmitted. Therefore, it's advisable to review them carefully before submitting.

Last updated: July 2026. Information guide. The procedure is carried out by the official entity (Chamber of Commerce and DIAN). Verify through the official channels. Hepacom does not charge fees or process payments.