FISCAL SPONSORSHIP

What is Fiscal Sponsorship?

Fiscal sponsorship offers a strategic pathway for philanthropists and organizations to pursue charitable initiatives without forming a separate nonprofit. By partnering with PPF, individuals and corporations operate under our 501(c)(3) umbrella—gaining the credibility, structure, and tax-exempt status of a public charity.

This arrangement also benefits existing nonprofits by streamlining back-office operations and ensuring regulatory compliance, allowing them to focus more fully on their mission.

PPF is a 501(c)(3) Texas Public Charity. Sponsored projects operate under our EIN as extensions of our organization, benefiting from our administrative infrastructure, oversight, and financial history. We manage funds, ensure IRS compliance, and provide the operational support needed to keep your initiative running smoothly.

PPF offers both Model A and Model C arrangements. Model A is a comprehensive, direct relationship, where your project is fully integrated into PPF’s operations and oversight. A Model C arrangement creates a grantor-grantee relationship, ideal for highly trusted, vetted, and operationally established clients. This model allows for more autonomy while still benefiting from PPF’s support and credibility.

Fiscal sponsorship with Players Philanthropy Fund

Difference between independent
501(c)(3) and fiscal sponsorship

Starting a nonprofit from scratch can be time-consuming and complex. Fiscal sponsorship offers a streamlined alternative, allowing you to focus on your mission while PPF handles the administrative and financial responsibilities.

Immediate 501(c)(3) Status – Partnering with PPF grants you instant access to 501(c)(3) benefits, bypassing the typical six-month wait for IRS approval. Your project operates under PPF’s established tax-exempt status, giving you a head start on fundraising and program development.
Nationwide Charitable Registration – PPF is registered in all US states that require charitable registration, enabling you to begin soliciting donations right away, without navigating the maze of state-by-state compliance.

Low Overhead, High Impact – While most nonprofits spend 20–30% of annual revenue on administrative costs, PPF’s fiscal sponsorship model keeps that to just 6%*. This means more of your funding goes directly toward your mission. Plus, you gain access to discounted services like legal support, accounting, donation platforms, and more.

Government-funded grants are treated under a separate fee structure

Full Compliance, Zero Hassle – Operating under PPF’s umbrella, we take care of all IRS filings for your project, including Form 990 and annual audits. By establishing a charitable project within PPF’s structure, you also avoid the burdens of forming a corporation, appointing a board, drafting bylaws, and meeting ongoing state requirements, which are required for established nonprofit corporations.

Credibility & Grant Access – PPF’s longstanding relationships with grantmakers and its proven track record enhance your credibility—opening doors to a broader range of funding opportunities.

how to start a nonprofit

Current 501(c)(3)

Many 501(c)(3) organizations partner with a fiscal sponsor like PPF to maximize financial history for grant applications, as well as to secure assistance and oversight of government grant facilitation. Fiscal sponsorship also provides access to affordable bookkeeping and accounting support while maintaining their independent nonprofit status. To stay active, simply file Form 990-N online, which takes less than 90 seconds. PPF also registers your organization’s name as a DBA in Maryland, so you can continue fundraising under your established identity.

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Ready to Get Started?

Join the growing community of mission-driven projects that trust PPF to handle the administrative details while they focus on making an impact.