Organizational Requirements

Establishing a Community Development Corporation (CDC) in Cincinnati

Community Development Corporations (CDCs) play a vital role in revitalizing neighborhoods, particularly those facing poverty, disinvestment, or other challenges. To operate effectively and participate in city-administered programs, CDCs in Cincinnati must comply with specific legal and regulatory requirements.

Incorporation

To be officially recognized and operate as a nonprofit in Ohio, a CDC must be incorporated under Ohio Revised Code § 1702. The organization must file Articles of Incorporation with the Ohio Secretary of State at the following address:

Secretary of State
30 East Broad Street
Columbus, OH 43266-0418

Articles of Incorporation Requirements:

  • Organization Name

  • Location of Principal Office

  • Purpose (should reflect community revitalization, economic development, and social services)

  • Names and Addresses of at least three initial trustees

  • A $125.00 filing fee must accompany the application

Statement of Continuing Existence

Every five years, the CDC must file a Statement of Continuing Existence with the Secretary of State, along with a $25.00 filing fee. Detailed instructions are available in Ohio’s nonprofit guidelines.

Bylaws

Ohio corporate law requires CDCs to establish bylaws that govern organizational operations, management, and decision-making processes.

Standard Bylaw Provisions:

  • Membership: Qualifications, rights, dues, meetings, elections, and voting quorum

  • Board of Trustees: Meetings, elections, qualifications, voting quorum, terms of office

  • Officers: Election, terms, and duties

  • Committees

  • Indemnification: Protection for trustees, officers, employees, and volunteers

  • Amendments: Procedures for modifying bylaws

The City of Cincinnati also requires CDCs to include:

  • A statement of geographic area served

  • A non-discrimination clause for employment and membership, covering race, sex, religion, national origin, and sexual orientation

For recognized neighborhood boundaries, visit: City of Cincinnati Community Council Boundaries.

INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

To receive funding or financial support from the City of Cincinnati, CDCs must ensure that all officers and employees with fiduciary responsibilities are covered by Directors and Officers (D&O) Insurance and General Liability Insurance.

Include Insurance Resources HERE.

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