> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.opencollective.com/oceurope/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.opencollective.com/oceurope/getting-started/basics.md).

# Your first steps after acceptance

Set up your page and agree how your collective will work together.

Once OCE has confirmed your acceptance, take these steps with the people who will administer your collective.

## Set up your page

Check the collective’s name, purpose, contact details and administrators. Explain your activities in a way that someone new can understand. Your public page should help people see what they are supporting.

## Agree how to use the budget

Decide together what the funds are for and who reviews expense requests. Keep track of commitments before planning new spending. The [budget decision guide](/oceurope/guides/deciding-on-how-to-use-your-money.md) can help.

## Learn the two everyday processes

* [Receive contributions](/oceurope/how-it-works/financial-contributions-how-to-donate.md): use the collective page and the correct payment instructions.
* [Request a payment](/oceurope/guides/expenses.md): submit the documentation, obtain collective approval and follow OCE’s review.

## Do a short practice walkthrough

You can learn the route without making a payment.

1. Open your collective’s public page and check that its purpose is understandable.
2. Find the budget and identify the balance. Do not treat expected funding as money already received.
3. Find **Submit Expense**, then read [the payment walkthrough](/oceurope/guides/expenses.md) before entering anything.
4. Agree who in your group will review a real request and who will ask OCE for help.
5. Save the collective link and the [help page](/oceurope/about-1/contact-us.md) somewhere the administrators can find them.

**You are ready for a first real request when:** you know the right collective, the purpose of the payment, the document needed and the person who will review it.

Do not submit a fictitious expense for practice. If you need a demonstration, ask for a walkthrough. You can follow the written guide without joining a video call.

## Keep your community informed

Publish at least one update each year, and more when there is useful news to share. Explain what happened and what comes next. Check any additional reporting obligations attached to a grant.

## Check before making a commitment

Contact OCE before an agreement needs its signature or commits the foundation. Do not use OCE’s identity or tax number on your own initiative. Read [your hosting agreement](/oceurope/about-1/terms-of-hosting.md).

If you get stuck, [ask us](/oceurope/about-1/contact-us.md). Include your collective’s link so we can find the right page.