Fiscal Sponsor Organizations

  • 1.  Model C with established c3s?

    Posted 05-07-2026 22:46

    We’re seeing more newly established 501(c )(3)s reaching out for Model C because they cannot meet a funder’s requirements (x years of audited financials, etc.) We have many thoughts about doing this (we don’t generally do this) but I’m wondering if others do?



  • 2.  RE: Model C with established c3s?

    Posted 05-07-2026 22:56
    Hi Oliver. We have seen the same thing and have sponsored the orgs as Model C with the agreement that they will no longer utilize their own EIN to fund raise after they start using ours for the duration of the relationship.


  • 3.  RE: Model C with established c3s?

    Posted 05-07-2026 23:22
    @Linda Rentschler I like this!


  • 4.  RE: Model C with established c3s?

    Posted 05-07-2026 23:22
    ESI has also brought in newly established 501c3 entities due to funders wanting a more established presence.


  • 5.  RE: Model C with established c3s?

    Posted 05-07-2026 23:24
    We have a few 501(c)(3) entities due to funder requirements, as well as some for capacity building. Deviating from a Model F, we do accept funds for Model Cs with 501c3 status. I do like @Linda Rentschler’ s requirement. It makes a lot of sense!


  • 6.  RE: Model C with established c3s?

    Posted 05-08-2026 20:30
    We see this as well at Community Capital Fund. Our work is based in the Kansas City region, and it’s fairly common for us to receive fiscal sponsorship requests from early‑stage 501(c)(3)s when a funder’s due‑diligence requirements create a clear hurdle — most often related to audited financials, organizational track record, or the size of a proposed award relative to current revenue. These types of Model C relationships are part of our regular practice. Glad to discuss further.


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