Hi greeks!
I am one of the founders of Kappa Pi Chi at the University of Lethbridge (Canadian Research University of the Year 2012), and we are in the same situation currently.
There are a number of steps I feel you have to undergo in order to make this happen:
1 - Prepare the University: Work with the Students Union and other Greek organizations on campus in establishing a Greek Council. You will need this in your application (bulletin) for extension.
2 - Ensure your sorority/fraternity meets requirements: membership (~50 members), academics (GPA above...), hours of volunteering (minimum 15), 2 major fundraisers per semester, etc...
3 - Prepare your sorority: Initially with a sorority, you need the numbers in order to get anything done. At some point you should refine recruitment to ensure you are bringing in girls who are passionate about making this happen, and have the skills and resources to ensure it happens. NPC might not happen until years after your graduation (if you graduate from that university you can retroactively join by passing a test), so you have to ensure the sorority will have a solid foundation, that these ladies are passionate about making this happen, and that all members are prepared financially, etc... ALSO costs of extension is high as you will be paying for travel and expense costs for 6 officers (differs by organization), so make sure your sorority is saving up money to pay for this. Expect a minimum of $10,000, although some organizations offer financing these costs, I feel that financing is not responsible as it puts a financial burden on the future sisters. Make sure your sorority is saving up for this, ours is!
GOOD LUCK