How to Become a Fiscally Sponsored Project at OAEC
The process of becoming a fiscally sponsored project at OAEC typically takes between 1.5 and 3 months, depending on project complexity, timing, and readiness. Before reaching out, please review our Fiscal Sponsorship Program FAQ.
Initial Inquiry
Interested projects begin by emailing us and sharing basic information. We may then ask you to fill out an inquiry form to learn more about your mission and activities, organizational structure, staffing, fundraising goals, timing, and fiscal sponsorship needs. We understand that projects may not have clarity yet on all of these details.
Introductory Conversation
If it appears that there may be alignment, OAEC staff will schedule an introductory conversation to learn more about the project and share information about OAEC’s fiscal sponsorship program, values, systems, and approach.
Internal Review
Following the initial conversation, both OAEC and the prospective project take some time to assess overall fit. OAEC considers factors such as mission alignment, organizational capacity, operational needs, and risk and insurance considerations. Prospective projects may consider the services and support they want and need from a sponsor.
Follow-Up Conversations & Documents
If we mutually decide to move forward, we will have additional conversations to discuss project needs, staffing, budgets, timelines, and operational considerations in more detail. Projects may be asked to share draft budgets, existing organizational materials, or other supporting documents.
Agreement Execution
OAEC will provide a draft fiscal sponsorship agreement for review and discussion. Once all parties are aligned on roles and responsibilities, policies, and other terms, the agreement is finalized and signed.
Systems Setup & Onboarding
Following agreement execution, OAEC begins the systems setup and onboarding process. Projects should generally allow 2–3 weeks for OAEC to complete systems setup before we are ready to onboard employees or accept funds on the project’s behalf.
