What is a Foundation?
A foundation in Kenya is a legal entity created to support long-term charitable, social, or community-based projects. Unlike small community groups or temporary initiatives, a foundation is designed for sustainability and impact—often running programs in education, healthcare, environment, and social welfare.
Many individuals, families, and organizations use foundations to create a lasting legacy of giving.
At Luvisia Digital, we help philanthropists, families, and corporate leaders set up foundations that are legally recognized and properly structured under Kenyan law.
Difference Between a Trust and a Foundation
Foundations and trusts are similar, but they are not the same:
- Trust → A legal arrangement where assets are held by trustees for beneficiaries. Best for family wealth management or specific projects.
- Foundation → A stand-alone legal entity established to run philanthropic or charitable programs with long-term goals. Best for charitable giving and social impact.
Simply put: A trust holds and protects assets, while a foundation actively runs programs or projects.
Requirements for Foundation Registration in Kenya
To register a foundation, you will need:
- Trustees/Directors – Minimum of 2+ individuals to manage the foundation.
- Constitution/Trust Deed – Outlining objectives, governance, and how resources will be used.
- Company Limited by Guarantee Option – Foundations can also be registered as a company limited by guarantee under the Business Registration Service (BRS).
- Beneficiaries/Target Group – Clearly defined groups or communities that the foundation serves.
Registration Process for a Foundation in Kenya
- Choose the Legal Structure
- As a trust → Registered via the Business Registration Service (BRS) and, in some cases, the High Court.
- As a company limited by guarantee → Registered through the BRS under the Companies Act.
- Draft the Constitution or Trust Deed
This document must clearly define objectives, governance, and financial accountability. - Submit Application via BRS
- Name search and reservation.
- Upload required documents (constitution, ID copies, PINs of trustees/directors).
- Payment of government registration fees.
- Approval & Issuance of Certificate
Once approved, the foundation receives a Certificate of Incorporation or Registration, confirming its legal existence.
Processing Time: Usually 3–6 weeks, depending on complexity.
Governance Needs of a Foundation
- Regular board meetings for trustees/directors.
- Proper record-keeping and financial reporting.
- Annual filings with BRS to remain compliant.
- Transparency to build trust with donors and partners.
How Luvisia Digital Helps
At Luvisia Digital, we simplify foundation registration in Kenya by:
- Advising on whether to register as a trust or company limited by guarantee.
- Assisting with constitution/trust deed drafting.
- Guiding on BRS applications and compliance filings.
- Supporting diaspora clients who want to establish foundations in Kenya.
Payment Method: M-PESA Till 9484430 – Luvisia Digital
Note: Our charges are service facilitation fees. Government and legal fees apply separately.
Official Reference Links
A foundation is one of the best ways to make a lasting difference in Kenya through philanthropy and social impact. Unlike trusts, which mainly protect assets, foundations provide a framework for actively running projects and programs that change lives.
At Luvisia Digital, we’re here to guide you from start to finish—ensuring your foundation is properly registered, compliant, and ready to make an impact.
Stay tuned: In upcoming blogs, we’ll dive deeper into Company Limited by Guarantee setup and how to manage foundation compliance requirements in Kenya.
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