Creating an Entity

Non-business, non-profit

[rocknbil]

Now, here's what's probably a really stupid question.

I know about creating business names and entities, etc., but what about a non-profit entity such as a club?

I know this sounds frivolous, but let's say I want to create a hobby club of a certain kind, one that no one's doing, such as "The [my area] Widgets Club," but I know as soon as I do someone's going to try and do the same thing.

So my thinking is to establish it as an official organization. This is a HOBBY. Non-profit, no budget, just a collection of old geezers interested in the same uninteresting stuff. But once I get it started I don't want someone to say "hey great idea" and steal it. If I could establish it as a registered organization I may have some legal means by which to prevent that.

And yes, I'll be talking with a lawyer but I'd much rather look stupid on the Internet than look stupid in front of someone asking $125/hr for consultation. (probably will anyway, but I can certainly minimize the damage.)

All general comments appreciated, thanks. :-)

[iamlost]

Each country varies its regulation of non-profit organisations but generally they must be incorporated as such with a board of directors, bylaws, etc.

To get started (with US info):
[mapnp.org ]

Or were you thinking something less formal?

[andye]

you could register a trademark. it's not expensive (at least in the uk).

[rocknbil]

I think a trademark is a bit much, it will just be strictly local and like I said is just a club I'd like to form and name without someone taking the name. Not a business or nonprofit organizaton (although "non-profit" will pretty much define it. :-) )

Thanks 'lost, that link will bear some extended reading this weekend. Sorry, yes, U.S. I do know a little bit about incorporation but was hoping to avoid going that far with it. I just want the name registered somewhere. :-)