> 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/eligibility.md).

# Is OCE right for your group?

Check the main conditions before applying.

OCE welcomes initiatives whose activities benefit the public and align with [its mission](/oceurope/mission-vision-and-impact-areas.md). Groups may be based anywhere in the world.

## The main conditions

* **A shared public-benefit purpose.** Explain what your group does and who it helps.
* **A nonprofit approach.** Funds support the mission; they are not distributed as personal profit.
* **An appropriate structure.** Standard collective hosting is for groups without a separate legal organisation.
* **Responsible administration.** The people managing the collective must be identifiable to OCE and able to maintain its records.
* **Respect for people.** Activities and public content must not promote violence, hate or abuse.

Contributions support the collective’s purpose. Donations and sponsorships must be unconditional.

## Can we advocate for a cause?

Yes. OCE permits non-partisan advocacy, including advocacy on legislation or public policy, consistent with its public-benefit purpose and applicable law. Support for political parties or candidates is excluded. If your proposed activity raises questions about this boundary, contact OCE before proceeding.

## How many administrators do we need?

We normally require at least two active administrators so that someone can keep the collective running if another person is unavailable. Both should genuinely take part in administering the collective.

If you run the project on your own, you can still discuss an application with OCE. Explain who will manage the collective and how the project can continue if you are unavailable; OCE will assess whether a one-administrator exception is appropriate. If OCE accepts a one-administrator arrangement, that administrator may submit and approve their own expense. The expense remains subject to OCE’s review before payment.

Explain your situation when applying. OCE will confirm whether an exception is accepted and its conditions.

## Do we need a mandate agreement?

A mandate agreement is required if your collective receives grants through OCE. If you receive only crowdfunding donations without particular conditions, a mandate is optional. Other funding arrangements, including contributions with particular conditions, are reviewed case by case with OCE. The general hosting terms still apply when a mandate is optional.

## What if we are just starting?

General hosting eligibility does not require a minimum balance or a minimum annual fundraising amount. Explain your plans honestly, including what is still taking shape.

## What if we already have a legal organisation?

Tell OCE before applying. A fund or a specific grant arrangement may be more appropriate than standard collective hosting; this needs its own review.

## What happens during review?

OCE checks the purpose, people involved and practical conditions for administering funds. The team may request further information and will confirm how the administrator rule above applies to your proposed arrangement.

An annual public update helps your community understand your activities. A particular grant may also have its own reporting requirements.

Continue to [apply to join OCE](/oceurope/getting-started/how-to-apply.md) or [ask a question](/oceurope/about-1/contact-us.md).