Background
We help many artists and informal organizations apply to grants funding and offer fiscal sponsorship as an additional way to support. If you’re interested in this the best way to find out more is by signing up for Office Hours.
What is fiscal sponsorship?
It’s a relationship between a person or a group of people and a nonprofit organization that is going to help that person or that people manage money and projects. If it’s your first time applying for grant funds and you think you might feel more comfortable if you had guidance from people who work at nonprofits and have experience making project plans, budgets, reports, and what not.
Do I need a fiscal sponsor for the City of Austin or other funders to award me grant funds?
It depends on the funder! The City of Austin has removed the restriction so that you can apply as an individual or group without a fiscal sponsor. It’s just that if you want some help with documents (see the question above), you might want to set up a fiscal sponsor. Also, if you know people who have money and may donate it to your project, it’s nice if you have a fiscal sponsor because with one, those donors’ donations can cut them a tax break.
Should I ask MoHA to be my fiscal sponsor?
Its up to you! MoHA offers no-fee fiscal sponsorship (other organizations usually ask for 5-15% of grant funds). With MoHA as a fiscal sponsor, you’ll use a program called Open Collective to track expenses and other financials. Last thing, since some funders requires funded projects to have insurance, if you’re fiscally sponsored by MoHA, you can sign onto their insurance policy for $80 or so. It’s a good idea but not necessary. For applicants to apply for this grant with a fiscal sponsor, you must have an agreement with the fiscal sponsor in place and for City of Austin grants it must be uploaded to the portal by the time you submit it.