89 INITIATIVE

Pro Bono to Navigate Legal Complexities

Impactful social initiatives should have access to the best legal expertise. That’s why the 89 Initiative, a forward-thinking policy research organization, was matched with Laurens Engelen, the pro bono partner of reference for the Brussels office of the global law firm Dentons. The result? Tailored pro bono legal advice that has empowered 89 Initiative to explore new avenues for impact-driven consultancy.

The 89 Initiative: Shaping Policy for a Better Future

The 89 Initiative is committed to understanding generational challenges in Europe and beyond. Through cutting-edge policy research, they provide insights that help organizations and governments develop solutions for a more sustainable and equitable future.

Recently, the 89 Initiative was approached by corporations seeking consultancy services. Recognizing the opportunity to broaden their impact, they needed clarity on the legal implications of offering consultancy services as an AISBL (international non-profit association). They also considered establishing a legally separate consultancy branch while maintaining their branding.

To ensure compliance with European and Belgian business law, they looked for expert legal guidance.

Dentons: A Leading Legal Partner in Business Law

Renowned for their expertise in business law, Dentons is a powerhouse in the legal world: their commitment to pro bono work reflects their belief that law should be a force for good. Laurens Engelen, an expert in European and Belgian corporate law, stepped in to provide 89 Initiative with the guidance they needed to navigate this complex transition.

Tailored Legal Advice: Addressing Key Questions

Through this pro bono collaboration, Dentons provided crucial insights into:

  1. Regulatory Restrictions – Determining whether an AISBL can provide consultancy services under Belgian law.
  2. Third-Party Contracting – Clarifying requirements for subcontracting services while maintaining compliance.
  3. Taxation and Revenue Declaration – Outlining how income from consultancy services should be reported and taxed.
  4. Cross-Border Financial Relations – Assessing whether an AISBL can receive funding from a UK-based Ltd company under the same branding.

By addressing these questions, Dentons ensured that 89 Initiative could make informed strategic decisions about their expansion.

Impact: Clarity, Compliance, and Growth

Thanks to this legal guidance, 89 Initiative now has a clear understanding of their options. Whether they continue providing consultancy services under their AISBL or establish a separate entity, they are equipped with the knowledge to move forward confidently.

Michael Cottakis, Director of 89 Initiative, expressed his gratitude: “We have been very positively impressed by the results of this pro bono collaboration. Laurens’ assistance was impeccable throughout the whole process, and we really felt treated like their top clients, although everything was delivered free of charge in recognition of the societal value of our initiative.”

This case highlights the transformative power of pro bono legal work in supporting NGOs as they scale their impact. 

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