A nonprofit, tax-exempt organization that acts as a sponsor for a project or group that does not have its own tax-exempt status. Grants or contributions are made to the fiscal sponsor which manages the funds. In the case of a grant, the fiscal sponsor is responsible for reporting back to the foundation on the progress of the project.
Fiscal sponsors sometimes even provide shared office space and accounting and administrative services. The organization that is sponsored usually pays a fee to the sponsor for its services, usually about 10 percent of the new group's revenues.
Fiscal sponsorship is complicated and is individualized for the two organizations. If you wish to partner with a sponsor, first identify several possibilities...groups that have missions similar to yours. Approach these with a sensible proposal. Both organizations should have legal counsel to help set up formal agreements that protect each entity.
Resources:
The Fiscal Sponsor Directory provides a list of fiscal sponsors across the country.
The National Network of Fiscal Sponsors provides information about fiscal sponsorship and best practices for fiscal sponsors; as well as a directory of sponsors.
