๐งพ CSR Registration in India – Your Gateway to Corporate Funding for Social Impact [2025 Guide]
If your organization wants to receive CSR funds from companies under India's corporate law, obtaining a CSR Registration Number is now mandatory.
Introduced under the Companies (CSR Policy) Amendment Rules, 2021, this registration helps ensure transparency and credibility between companies and implementing partners such as NGOs, trusts, and Section 8 companies.
Whether you’re a non-profit seeking corporate partnerships or a company planning to fulfill its CSR obligations, this guide will walk you through what CSR Registration is, who needs it, the benefits, and how to apply online, with complete documentation and expert assistance.
๐ What is CSR Registration?
CSR Registration refers to the process of registering your organization on the MCA21 portal of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) to obtain a Unique CSR Registration Number.
This registration is mandatory for all entities intending to act as implementing agencies under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives as per Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013.
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The CSR Registration Number is issued after submitting Form CSR-1, which serves as proof of the organization’s eligibility to receive CSR contributions from companies.
๐๏ธ Who Needs CSR Registration?
As per the Companies (CSR Policy) Amendment Rules, w.e.f. 1st April 2021, the following entities must obtain CSR Registration to be eligible as CSR implementing agencies:
• Section 8 Companies
• Registered Public Trusts
• Registered Societies
Additional Eligibility Criteria:
• Must be registered under 12A & 80G of the Income Tax Act
• Must have a track record of at least 3 years (if not established by a company)
• Must not be a for-profit entity
๐ CSR-1 does not apply to companies conducting CSR projects themselves — only for third-party NGOs/trusts seeking CSR funds.
๐ฏ Benefits of CSR Registration for NGOs
Benefit Description
๐ข Access to Corporate CSR Funds Eligible to partner with companies spending CSR budgets
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National-Level Recognition Get listed in MCA database of verified CSR-eligible organizations
๐ Increased Transparency Builds trust with corporates, donors, and government bodies
๐ค Partnerships & Collaborations Enables joint ventures for impactful social development projects
๐ Enhanced Credibility Improves visibility for other grants, donations, and international funding
๐ Documents Required for CSR Registration
To file Form CSR-1, the following documents are required:
1. PAN card of the organization
2. Registration Certificate (Trust Deed / MOA / Incorporation Certificate)
3. 12A & 80G Registration Certificates
4. Details of Board Members / Trustees
5. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) of authorized representative
6. Email ID and Mobile Number for MCA login
7. Details of past projects and activities (if any)
๐ All documents must be uploaded in PDF format and should be self-attested by authorized signatories.
๐ฅ๏ธ How to Apply for CSR Registration (Form CSR-1 Filing)
The registration process is fully online and done through the MCA portal.
Step-by-Step Process:
1. Visit: https://www.mca.gov.in
2. Log in with your registered MCA ID
3. Go to MCA Services > CSR > File CSR-1
4. Fill in organizational details and attach required documents
5. Sign and submit the form using a valid DSC
6. Upon successful submission, an SRN and acknowledgment receipt will be generated
7. Once approved, you’ll receive a Unique CSR Registration Number
โณ Processing Time: 3–5 working days
๐ธ Government Fee: Nil (Free of charge)
๐ What Happens Without CSR Registration?
• You cannot receive CSR funds from any Indian company
• Companies will not consider your proposal even if you're a registered NGO
• You become ineligible for CSR collaborations or empanelment
• Missed opportunities to scale your social impact through corporate funding
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CSR registration is mandatory for legal eligibility — no exceptions apply.
๐ผ Why Choose Us for CSR-1 Filing?
Our team of experts offers complete support from document review to final approval, ensuring a 100% success rate.
Our Services Include:
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Free eligibility check
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Assistance in obtaining or renewing 12A & 80G if needed
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Digital Signature support
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Form CSR-1 preparation, filing, and tracking
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End-to-end compliance consulting
๐ Want to receive CSR funds from top companies?
Let us register your NGO the right way — professionally, accurately, and quickly.
๐ Final Thoughts
CSR Registration is your NGO’s official gateway to corporate funding. Without a CSR Number, your proposals may never even reach the boardroom.
Whether you’re a trust, society, or Section 8 company, registering under Form CSR-1 is essential for any organization planning to collaborate with companies for social impact.
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Don’t miss out.
Apply for CSR Registration today and get one step closer to scaling your mission with the power of corporate partnerships.