Italiano
In recent years, more and more founders, professionals and scientists have chosen the UK as the ideal place to set up a charity.
In an era of global connectivity and cross-border missions, establishing a charity in the United Kingdom represents not just a legal structure — it’s a bridge. A bridge that connects your vision to international donors, institutional credibility, and tax‑efficient funding channels. Many founders from Italy and beyond are now choosing the UK as their anchor for scalable, sustainable philanthropic work.
Why? Because it’s efficient, internationally recognised, and offers significant legal and tax benefits.
Here’s how to start — and why doing it in the UK offers unique advantages.
Getting Started
First of all:
- Decide on the legal structure (CIO, Charitable Company, Trust)
CharityExcellence recommends carefully evaluating the available options, considering the pros and cons of each structure. - Define your charitable “object” clearly, exclusively, and in line with UK charity law.
- Select the initial trustees (minimum of 3), and collect their personal information and declarations.
- Prepare the required documents (governing document/statute, policies, operational plan).
- Apply for registration with the Charity Commission (free of charge, but requires detailed documentation).
- Once approved, register with HMRC to obtain tax recognition and enable Gift Aid claims.
The advantages of UK charities
- Gift Aid: allows charities to claim +25% on eligible private donations
- Tax exemptions: corporation tax, capital gains, inheritance tax
- Business rates relief: up to 100% on properties used for charitable purposes
- Access to funding: grants, public money, and major trust foundations
- Public trust: UK charities are highly respected and regulated
Why it’s better than Italy (for some projects)
- Faster setup: 4–8 weeks versus months
- English-language governance: easier international collaboration
- Digital-first: no paper bureaucracy or in-person processes
- International recognition: by banks, donors, and institutions abroad
How we support cross-border founders
- Bilingual support (UK–Italy)
- Personalised structures (CIO, CLG)
- Full registration with Charity Commission + HMRC
- Gift Aid setup and tax strategy
- Governance design and trustee support
- Optional ongoing fiscal & legal assistance
Conclusion
If you’re an Italian founder with a vision that goes beyond borders, a UK charity might be the best tool to make it real. And we’re here to help.
Call to Action
Want to discuss your project?
Book a free preliminary call or contact us at: cescauk.info@cescauk.org