Fiscal sponsorship
Fiscal sponsorship for artists and community projects
Not every great idea needs its own 501(c)(3). Fiscal sponsorship lets artists, collectives, and community initiatives operate under CACF's nonprofit umbrella — so they can accept tax-deductible donations and pursue grants while staying focused on the work.
The basics
What fiscal sponsorship is
Fiscal sponsorship is a formal arrangement in which a 501(c)(3) public charity extends its tax-exempt status to a project that aligns with its mission.
Sponsored projects can receive tax-deductible contributions and apply for many grants without forming their own nonprofit corporation — a process that can take a year or more and carries ongoing legal and accounting obligations.
CACF provides the legal and financial container; the project team provides the vision and the work.
What we provide
The container, so you can focus on the work
Tax-deductible giving
Donors give to CACF on behalf of your project and receive a charitable deduction.
Grant eligibility
Apply for foundation and government grants that require 501(c)(3) status.
Financial stewardship
Funds are held, tracked, and disbursed for your project with clear records.
Governance & oversight
Board-level oversight that funders trust, without you building a board from scratch.
Who it's for
A fit for projects like yours
- Working artists and ensembles seeking grant eligibility
- Community projects in arts, culture, beautification, or creative economic development
- Filmmakers raising charitable support for documentary or community film work
- New initiatives testing an idea before committing to their own 501(c)(3)
How to start
Fiscal sponsorship begins with a conversation. Tell us about your project, your community, and what you're trying to build — we'll walk you through fit, terms, and timeline.
CACF's sponsored portfolio includes community initiatives in Mariposa County and beyond. See the Projects page for the full portfolio.
Start the conversationSee sponsorship in action.
Our portfolio spans music, marketplaces, and community infrastructure.