Fiscal Sponsorship

Propel’s fiscal sponsorship program works with mission-driven organizations, projects, and collaborations that do not yet have their 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and are looking to advance charitable causes and uplift their communities.

Our objective is to provide resources, consulting, technical assistance, and the ability to accept charitable contributions to emerging organizations within Propel’s fiscal sponsorship program.  

The heart of our work is: 

  • Providing equitable access to resources, particularly for historically excluded groups and community leaders 
  • Empowering community leaders to determine their own needs and path forward 
  • Supporting emerging organizations to incubate and launch new ideas 
  • Building sustainable infrastructure needed to successfully launch a nonprofit 

Our efforts help to launch confident and competent organizations that understand the nonprofit landscape and have viable plans to operate independently.  

Learn more about what we offer below.

What is Fiscal Sponsorship?

Fiscal sponsorship is a common means by which an organization can accept tax-deductible donations without having its own 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. Propel is a “Model C” Fiscal sponsor – learn more about what that means.

Eligibility & Program Readiness

Learn more about Propel’s fiscal sponsorship program structure, fees, and values. Reach out to the team if you have questions about your organization’s readiness for the program.

Emerging Organizations Cohort

This nine-month Cohort will provide a group of emerging nonprofit leaders with space, resources, and a $5,000 grant to explore common experiences while building strong, supportive relationships with their peers.

Current Projects

We serve as the fiscal sponsor for dozens of Minnesota nonprofits and projects – see who we are currently working with at our Current Projects page.

Ready to Apply?

If you are ready to apply for Fiscal Sponsorship, please fill out an Inquiry Form.

Related Resources

Fiscal Sponsorship Primer Video

Fiscal sponsorship is a great alternative to getting a 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. This short video explains what fiscal sponsorship is…

Glossary of Financial Terms for Nonprofits

This glossary provides definitions of terminology commonly used in nonprofit finance.

A Board’s Guide to Fiscal Sponsorship

As fiscal sponsorship continues to become a more widely used tool for charitable impact, it is important that 501(c)(3) organizations…

CLIENT CASE STUDY

Urban Bird Collective

"I knew Propel had the support we needed when it was time for us to grow,” Bryand said. “This organization isn’t about me; it is about our leaders, and I want us to have the skills and tools we need to grow."
Monica Bryand, Founder, Urban Bird Collective

Upcoming Trainings

12 Golden Rules of Nonprofit Finance

Join us as Propel trainers will go through 12 Golden Rules of nonprofit finance to keep your organization healthy.

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Fundamentals of Nonprofit Board Governance

While this training is open to all, it is designed for those new to serving on a board or those who are contemplating joining a board.

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$85

Transforming Business Models

Join us to learn the four core components of a nonprofit business model – revenue mix, understanding the cost of programs, infrastructure, and capital structure – and explore how all these components connect to mission and your organization’s financial health.

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Free