Non-profit organizations in Bangladesh play a significant role in addressing socio-economic issues. Whether it be for humanitarian aid, education, healthcare or social welfare or any other field, forming a non profit organisation requires to consider specific legal frameworks, according to their accurate purposes, long-term aims and operational capabilities, under the appropriate laws. 

To understand the broader landscape, including business structures and types in Bangladesh, it is essential to explore the various legal entities available for organizations:

• Sole Proprietorship
• Limited Company 
• partnership firm
• one person company
• joint venture
• All Foreign business options

Types of Non-Profit Organisation in Bangladesh

Non-profit organizations in Bangladesh can take several different legal forms, including:

1. Registration of NGOs Under the NGO Affairs Bureau: NGOs or INGOs intending to obtain foreign donations must register with the NGO Affairs Bureau (NGOAB) under the Foreign Donations (Voluntary Activities) Regulation Act, 2016. See detail guide>

2. Society: A society is a non-profit organization that is established for the promotion of charitable purposes, such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. See detail guide>

3. Foundation: A foundation is a non-profit organization that is established for the purpose of philanthropy, such as funding charitable causes, research, or education. A foundation is governed by a board of trustees who are responsible for the management of the foundation. [see societies registration guides]

4. Association: An association is a non-profit organization that is established for the promotion of a particular profession, trade, or interest. [Societies, Foundations, and some times Associations have the same registration process under the same laws.]>

5. Trust: A trust is a non-profit organization that is established for the purpose of holding property or funds for the benefit of a particular group of people, such as orphans, the elderly, or the disabled under. Established under the Trust Act, of 1882. See detail guide>

6. Non-profit Company: A company limited by guarantee is a non-profit organization that is established for the promotion of charitable purposes, such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. Established under the Companies Act, 1994. See detail guide>

7. Voluntary Social Welfare Organization: Under the Voluntary Social Welfare Agencies (Registration and Control) Ordinance, 1961, registered at the Department of Social Services (DSS), under the Ministry of Social Welfare provides registration. Suitable For: Organizations providing welfare services to various societal groups, including children, women, and the physically or mentally challenged. See detail guide>

8. Waqf Registration: For organizations focusing on Islamic charitable work, the Waqfs Ordinance, 1962 provides a legal framework. Registration is done through the Office of the Administrator of Waqf. See detail guide>

9. Cooperative Societies in Bangladesh: A groups of individuals with shared interests, such as women, farmers, artisans, or consumers. The Cooperative Societies Act is the governing laws, and aim to promote economic and social development through collective action. See detail guide>

10. Department of Women’s Affairs (DWA): Similar to the Department of Social Services (DSS), an organization that is willing to work related to women’s and children’s welfare may register under the Department of Women’s Affairs (DWA), under the Ministry of Women & Children Affairs. 

10. Microcredit Operations and Licensing: NGOs involved in microfinance must obtain a license from the Microcredit Regulatory Authority (MRA) under the Microfinance Regulatory Act, 2006.

It is important to choose the appropriate legal form for your non-profit organization based on its specific purpose and objectives. It is recommended to work with a local legal advisor who can help you determine the best legal form for your non-profit organization and guide you through the registration process.

Check our GUIDE to Start and Run Your Business by Registering a Company in Bangladesh.

For further guidance, consulting a legal expert is recommended to navigate the complexities of NGO registration and compliance in Bangladesh.