TRUST FOR CONSERVATION INNOVATION

Problem
Several non-profit projects were interested in moving to a more streamlined and efficient fiscal sponsor. The primary goals for the new fiscal sponsor were to significantly improve grant tracking, financial services, and other support services at a reduced cost.

Solution
CEA evaluated several fiscal sponsors in the region and designed the platform for a new fiscal sponsor: The Trust for Conservation Innovation. Specifically, CEA:

• Reviewed best practices in fiscal sponsorship.
• Analyzed the financial and legal requirements necessary to run a fiscal sponsor.
• Developed a mission, bylaws, internal policies and systems, criteria for selecting projects, etc.
• Guided the application process for establishing a new 501(c)(3).
• Helped recruit board members to guide the new organization.

Results

• In its first year of operation, The Trust had four member projects.
• The Trust's projects are currently paying less in administrative fees and receiving superior services.
• A report for the philanthropic and non-profit community on best-practices for fiscal sponsorship is available.