Accreditations Overview

It builds faith and trust.

It demonstrates that the organisation has been carefully assessed against the Nine Principles of Ministry Accountability and has scored a 100% passing grade. The CMA Standards Council does not attempt to rank or score an organisation. An organisation either meets the standards completely and is thus accredited, or it falls short. When donors see the COAT 'Accreditation' Seal, they can give confidently and generously, knowing that the organisation takes governance, accountability and stewardship seriously.

We are all ultimately accountable to God, but Scripture encourages us not merely to do what is right, but also to be seen to do so:

"taking precaution that no one should discredit us in our administration of this generous gift, for we have regard for what is honorable, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men." 2 Cor 8:20-12"

Apply For Accreditation

Benefits

Accreditation by COAT is a valuable endorsement of a church or charity's integrity. It has direct benefits for your church or organisation, but it also has benefits for the Christian sector in New Zealand, as like-minded ministries link arms and collectively send a public message about Christian organisational behaviour.

Assurance

You will have the assurance, both internally and among your stakeholders, that you have been tested and found compliant with an objective, external set of standards specifically designed for New Zealand Christian organisations and churches.

Compliance

You will be deemed by the New Zealand Charities Commission and Charitable Trust Register / IRD to be in compliance with their Governance Standards.

Listed as Compliant

You will be entitled to display the COAT 'Accredited' Seal on your organisation's documents, website, and appeals.
You will receive free printed inserts, highlighting your compliance with our standards, to distribute to your supporters.
Your organisation will have a detailed profile in the online 'Give Confidently' directory*. This will allow you to optionally reveal helpful information about your ministry, your people, your vision, and the measures you take to demonstrate your good stewardship and maximise accountability.
Your organisation will be searchable on the 'Give Confidently' directory according to the regions in which you serve and the causes which you pursue. That way, donors, trusts and foundations who are interested in your cause can find you.

Support and Training

You will receive partner-level access to a growing suite of COAT training and resources to help your organisation develop.
You will inherit a COATOrganisational subscription, providing discounts on conferences, events and resources, as well as access to COAT Networks, publications and services.