Fiscal Sponsorship
Applying for Funding with a Fiscal Sponsor
If you or your group do not have 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, but meet all the other grant eligibility requirements, you may still be able to apply for Inspire Vancouver funding by working with a fiscal sponsor.
A fiscal sponsor is an eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that accepts grant funds on your behalf and manages the financial and administrative responsibilities for your project.
What does a fiscal sponsor do?
A fiscal sponsor:
- Is responsible for managing the grant.
- Receives the grant payment and passes the funds on to you for your project.
- Signs the grant agreement and is responsible for meeting all grant requirements.
- Keeps financial records and submits any required reports.
- May charge an administrative fee of up to 10% of the grant.
- May also provide optional services, such as bookkeeping, if you both agree.
Before you apply, you and your fiscal sponsor should decide:
- What services the fiscal sponsor will provide.
- Any fees the fiscal sponsor will charge.
- How you will work together throughout the grant period.
What are your responsibilities?
If you use a fiscal sponsor, you are responsible for:
- Completing the grant application.
- Managing your project.
- Keeping your fiscal sponsor informed about your project’s progress.
- Receiving grant funds through your fiscal sponsor.
- Paying any agreed-upon administrative fees.
- Providing any records or information your fiscal sponsor needs to meet grant requirements.
Who can be a fiscal sponsor?
A fiscal sponsor must:
- Be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization recognized by the IRS.
- Be incorporated in Washington State.
- Have arts, culture, heritage, or science as a primary organizational purpose.
Selecting a Fiscal Sponsor
If you need a fiscal sponsor, you are responsible for contacting eligible nonprofit organizations to discuss whether they are willing to sponsor your project.
Together, you and your fiscal sponsor should decide:
- What services the fiscal sponsor will provide.
- Any fees they will charge.
- Which organization or individual will carry the required insurance.
Inspire Vancouver staff cannot recommend or match applicants with fiscal sponsors.