Form a Non-Profit Company (Limited by Guarantee)

A company limited by guarantee is the usual UK structure for non-profits, charities, clubs, societies, and community organisations. Instead of shareholders, it has guarantors — and profits are typically reinvested in the mission rather than distributed.

Who this structure is for

• Charities and community interest organisations
• Clubs, societies, and membership bodies
• Educational and voluntary organisations
• Social enterprises that do not want share capital

Key advantages

• Limited liability for members/guarantors
• Separate legal identity for funding and contracts
• Credible structure for trustees, boards, and funders
• Suitable base if you later register as a charity (charity registration is a separate step)

How formation works

• Choose a suitable company name
• Confirm directors, guarantors, and company objects
• Complete required identity verification
• We handle Companies House filing and issue your documents

You need at least one director and one guarantor (these can be the same person). We explain the difference between shareholders and guarantors in plain English so your board can proceed with confidence.

Speak to us about forming a non-profit company