Fiscal Sponsorship 101

Fiscal sponsorship is a formal arrangement in which a 501(c)(3) public charity sponsors a project that may lack exempt status. This alternative to starting your own nonprofit allows you to seek grants and solicit tax-deductible donations under your sponsor's exempt status.

Why would you want to do this?

  • Grants

  • Sponsorships

  • Donations

  • Fiscal Oversight/Responsibility

  • You want to establish a new 501(c)3, but you want to get to work right away

  • Alternatives will not work for you: Loans, Crowdsourced Funding

Finding the Right Fit in a Fiscal Sponsor

  • Know yourself, your project, your purpose in creating your project, and the outcomes

  • Is there a nonprofit that aligns with your vision?

  • What is the cost of fiscal sponsorship through that organization, and what do you get for the cost?

  • How accessible is the money you raise?

  • What requirements does your fiscal sponsor have for you?

Helpful Links:

Fractured Atlas for independent artists who do not want to start a nonprofit

Arts Alive! Arts Incubation / Fiscal Sponsorship Program 

How to start a Nonprofit

Checklist for becoming a nonprofit

Hannah Grimes Center Resources:

The Hannah Grimes Center for Entrepreneurs is a great resource for getting a project planned - there are coaches, coworking space, and workshops that will help you get your vision mapped out.