OVERVIEW
Philanthropic initiatives play a critical role in addressing some of society’s most pressing challenges—whether social, cultural, educational, or humanitarian. In doing so, nonprofit and mission-driven organisations operate within a complex and dynamic legal and regulatory environment, often with cross-border dimensions and heightened public scrutiny.
At Zepos & Yannopoulos, we are widely recognised as Greece’s leading legal and tax advisor to the nonprofit sector. With unmatched experience in supporting philanthropic ventures, we deliver strategic, responsive, and fully integrated solutions to foundations, charitable organisations, associations, and other impact-focused entities.
We offer comprehensive legal and tax support across the full life cycle of nonprofit structures—from initial set-up and governance design to day-to-day operations, grant-making, and regulatory compliance. Our deep understanding of Greek and international nonprofit frameworks, combined with our cross-border capabilities, allows us to provide pragmatic guidance that is both compliant and forward-looking.
Whether advising on large-scale philanthropic initiatives, facilitating cross-border donations, or ensuring ongoing alignment with evolving Greek, EU, and international requirements, our team is uniquely positioned to help nonprofits safeguard their mission, maintain public trust, and scale their impact.
Areas of expertise
Establishment and Structuring of Nonprofit Entities
We support clients in establishing Greek civil nonprofit partnerships (AMKEs), foundations, and associations, following a rigorous tax-efficient structuring analysis. We advise on the optimal legal form, draft governance documents, oversee incorporation procedures, and liaise with regulators to ensure compliance from the outset.
Governance and Best Practices
We assist boards and executive teams in designing and implementing robust governance frameworks tailored to the organisation’s mission, scale, and regulatory obligations. Our services include transparency policies, conflict-of-interest procedures, and grant-making protocols.
Donor and Partnership Structuring
We advise on the legal and tax structuring of relationships with individual donors, affiliated entities, and corporate partners—whether philanthropic or commercial in nature. We prepare grant and sponsorship agreements, partnership arrangements, and conduct counterparty due diligence to ensure legal integrity and reputational safeguards.
Intellectual Property Strategy
We help nonprofits manage and protect their intangible assets, including trademarks, copyrights, and domain names. Our support covers IP registration, licensing, and the use of IP in advocacy, programming, and fundraising activities.
Employment and Immigration
Our employment team advises on nonprofit-specific HR matters, including employment contracts, volunteer arrangements, internal policies, and compliance with Greek labour and immigration laws applicable to local and international staff.
Tax Compliance and Representation
We provide ongoing guidance on maintaining tax-exempt status, handling VAT and income/gift tax matters, and meeting reporting requirements under Greek and EU law. We also represent clients in their engagements with tax authorities and supervisory bodies.
