ABCD - Articles of Incorporation

Article I: Name and Purpose

Section 1: Name: The name of this organization is the America-Bangladesh Coalition for Development (ABCD).

Section 2: Purpose​: The purpose of ABCD is to strengthen U.S.-Bangladesh relations by fostering cooperation, promoting mutual interests, and advocating for shared goals. ABC’s mission is to serve as a voice for the Bangladeshi American community while supporting Bangladesh’s development through research, policy analysis, cultural promotion, and youth empowerment. Our vision is to create meaningful connections that contribute to the prosperity of both nations.

ABCD will work to build strong relationships between the Bangladeshi diaspora in the U.S. and U.S. policymakers, including elected officials and bureaucrats, ensuring that the community’s voice is heard.

ABCD will establish a dedicated research hub focused on Bangladesh’s technological, infrastructural, educational, and economic progress. This platform will bring together global experts to explore innovative solutions to challenges in public policy and development. It will Promote trade, investment, and entrepreneurship between the U.S. and Bangladesh. ABC will create opportunities for sustainable economic growth through collaboration among businesses, policymakers, and industry leaders.

ABCD will develop a media platform that showcases Bangladesh’s achievements across various sectors while countering negative perceptions. This initiative will serve as a global stage for promoting the country’s progress, investment potential, and cultural richness.

ABCD will build a comprehensive network of Bangladeshi professionals and like-minded organizations across North America. This network will harness their skills and experiences to support Bangladesh’s economic, educational, and cultural initiatives on an international scale.

Article II: Membership

Section 1: Membership Eligibility: Membership shall be open to all individuals of Bangladeshi descent, as well as any persons supportive of ABCD's mission.

Section 2: Membership Dues: Members may be required to pay annual dues, the amount of which shall be determined by the Board of Directors.

Section 3: Membership Rights: Members shall have the right to vote on organizational matters, participate in events, and receive communications from ABCD.

Article III: Board of Directors

Section 1: Composition: The Board of Directors shall consist of individuals elected from the membership, representing a diverse cross-section of the Bangladeshi American community.

Section 2: Powers and Responsibilities: The Board shall have the power to:

Oversee the operations of ABCD. Determine policies and initiatives in line with ABCD's mission. Appoint committees to support specific projects, including the think tank and media network.

Section 3: Terms of Service: Board members shall serve a term of three years, with the opportunity for re-election.

Section 4: Meetings: The Board shall meet at least quarterly, and additional meetings may be scheduled as necessary.

Article IV: Committees

Section 1: Committees Established: The following committees shall be established to further ABCD’s objectives:

• Research and Policy Committee: For think tank initiatives related to policy analysis and research.

• Media and Communications Committee: To develop and manage ABCD’s media platform.

• Expatriate Engagement Committee: To build and maintain connections with the expatriate community.

• Youth Empowerment Committee: To create mentorship and skill-building programs for Gen Z.

Section 2: Committee Roles: Committees shall consist of members appointed by the Board of Directors and shall report on activities and progress at Board meetings.

Article V: Meetings

Section 1: General Membership Meetings: ABCD shall hold general membership meetings at least twice a year to report on activities, share updates, and solicit member input.

Section 2: Notification: Members shall be notified of upcoming meetings via email or other reasonable means at least two weeks in advance.

Article VI : Financial Management

Section 1: Fiscal Year: The fiscal year of ABCD shall begin on January 1 and end on December 31.

Section 2: Financial Oversight: The Board shall ensure proper financial management and transparency, including annual financial audits conducted by an external auditor.

Article VII: Amendments

Section 1: Amendment Process: These bylaws may be amended by a two-thirds majority vote of the Board of Directors, provided that notice of the proposed amendment has been given at least two weeks in advance of the vote.

Article VIII: Dissolution

Section 1: Dissolution of Organization: In the event of dissolution, any remaining assets of ABCD shall be distributed to nonprofit organizations with similar objectives, as determined by the Board.

This structure is intended to provide an organized framework for ABCD's foundational activities while allowing flexibility for future adjustments as the organization grows and evolves. It encapsulates the multifaceted initiatives ABCD seeks to undertake in support of Bangladesh's development and the Bangladeshi community abroad.