VDACS Launches New Platform for Online Registration of Charitable Organizations

Like most states, Virginia specifically regulates charitable fundraising in the spirit of consumer protection.  This regulates takes several forms, including an annual registration requirement for nonprofit organizations that engage in charitable fundraising.  Until 2026, these registration (and exemption) forms had to be filed in hard copy form, but no longer.  The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Office of Charitable and Regulatory Programs (OCRP), which administers the charitable solicitation compliance program, has launched a new digital platform, known as “Evoke,” as part of an ongoing commitment to improve government efficiency.

Generally speaking, all charitable organizations that intend to solicit contributions within the Commonwealth of Virginia or have funds solicited on their behalf (unless exempt under Virginia law), are required to register with OCRP.  It is estimated that more than 13,000 charities, professional solicitors, and fundraising counsels are registered to solicit contributions in the Commonwealth. In the Evoke platform, charities can now file their registration documents electronically, and the records will also be available in the online database for members of the public to easily access and search.

As all charitable solicitation records become available through the online database, the public will be able to quickly access information about a charity before deciding whether to donate to the organization. Using Evoke will reduce registration processing time and enable charities to easily track their status.  Before their next renewal date, registered organizations should receive direct communication from OCRP regarding how to file registration applications and renewals through the new online system. For more information, click here.