NJ formation & 501(c)(3) — board summary¶

Canonical checklist (always use for legal steps):
ridge_racers_nonprofit_formation_checklist_nj.md

Progress log (milestones & next steps):
apex_stem_formation_progress_notes.md

Last synced with canonical: 2026-06-16 — secretary updates this summary when the canonical file or progress log changes.

Not legal advice. This page is an index for trustees; counsel and the canonical checklist govern filings.

Domain/DNS: domain_and_dns.md · Tools: nonprofit_free_tools.md

Phase 1 — Strategic planning¶

[x] Mission drafted — see progress notes
[ ] Two-entity model understood: nonprofit (donations/grants) + LLC (ops/merch) — separate accounts
[x] Legal name chosen — Apex STEM Education Inc.; domain strategy (domain_and_dns)

[ ] Bylaws drafted (board, officers, meetings, COI, dissolution)
[ ] Conflict of interest policy adopted (LLC, vendors, family)
[ ] Initial board meeting — adopt bylaws, elect officers, approve bank + 1023 filing, COI policy; minutes to Drive Governance/

[x] Form 1023-EZ submitted ($275) via Pay.gov — 2026-06-11; awaiting IRS (est. 2–8 weeks)
[x] Activity descriptions prepared (STEM Racing, CAD, manufacturing education, outreach)
[x] Determination letter received — 2026-06-16; update public materials to approved 501(c)(3) language

[ ] Nonprofit bank account opened (EIN letter, certificate of incorporation, board resolution if required)
[x] Public language: tax-exempt 501(c)(3) — use approved IRS language (see progress notes)

[ ] Separate bank, books, contracts, governance for nonprofit vs Ridge Racers LLC
[ ] LLC services to nonprofit only with written agreement, FMV, board approval, conflict log
[ ] Board annual attestation: no commingling

Phase	Topic
5	Bank account, accounting, donations
6	NJ charitable registration
7	Insurance
9	Sponsorship & grant packets

Before inviting parents to docs.apexstem.org: