Checklist

Here’s your step-by-step starter checklist to launch your hybrid humanitarian NGO in Ireland, optimized for impact + income while staying legally compliant:

📋 NGO Launch Checklist

✅ Phase 1: Foundation

1. Define Your Niche

• Example: “Refurbishing tech for refugees + upskilling them in AI-proof jobs (e.g., community care, hardware repair).”

1. Choose a Name

• Check availability on CRO.ie (e.g., “TechBridge Ireland CLG”).

1. Assemble a Board (3+ People)

• Roles needed: Chairperson, Treasurer, Secretary (volunteer initially).

✅ Phase 2: Legal Setup

4. Register as a CLG

• File Form A1 + €50 fee with the Companies Registration Office (CRO).
• Submit constitution (use this template).

4. Apply for Charitable Status

• Register with the Charities Regulator (free).

4. Tax Exemption

• File Form CHY1 with Revenue.ie for charitable tax breaks.

✅ Phase 3: Funding & Operations

7. Open a Bank Account

• Best for NGOs: AIB/BOI’s “Community & Voluntary” accounts (low fees).

7. Launch a Pilot Project

• Example: “100 Laptops for Direct Provision Centres” (partner with Migrant Rights Centre Ireland).

7. Revenue Streams

• Earned Income: Sell tech-wiping services to businesses (~€50/device).
• Grants: Apply for Rethink Ireland (deadlines: March/Sept).

✅ Phase 4: Transparency & Growth

10. Website & Social Media
    • Domain: .org.ie (~€20/year).
    • Must-have pages: Transparency, Impact Stories, Donate Button.
11. First Salary (When Sustainable)
    • Start small (e.g., €2k/month) via earned income, not donations.
12. Annual Compliance
    • File reports with CRO + Charities Regulator.

🔥 Pro Tips to Accelerate

• Volunteer First: Recruit IT students (e.g., from TU Dublin) to help refurbish tech.
• Low-Cost Marketing: Partner with The Wheel for free NGO training.
• AI Tools to Use:
• ChatGPT = Grant writing assistant.
• Canva = Social media graphics.

📎 Attachments (Hypothetical)

1. Sample 12-Month Budget (Salary included).
2. Irish Grant List (Updated 2024).

Final Note:
“Start small, document every hour worked, and scale ethically. Your IT skills are your superpower—use them to automate the boring bits and focus on human impact.”

Need a draft email to recruit board members? I’ve got templates.