How to Apply for Fiscal Sponorship?
To apply, submit a complete application package including:
- IAM's Fiscal Sponsorship Application Form (MS Word .docx)
- Project Budget Worksheet (Excel) (Google Docs and Google Sheets versions are also acceptable)
- Optional supporting materials and work samples
You will receive a confirmation email from IAM within 5-7 business days of receipt of your application.
Applications will be accepted until August 10, 2026, with decisions announced by August 31, 2026
IAM may consider applications for fiscal sponsorship at other times depending on the circumstances. Please submit all inquires to Traka@artsandmedia.net.
How to Submit:
1. Download the Fiscal Sponsorship Application Form and Project Budget Worksheet.
2. Complete both documents, including detailed budget notes.
3. Email your completed application, budget, and supporting documents to admin@artsandmedia.net.
For Model A Applicants:
IAM will only accept Model A applications from projects based in the San Francisco Bay Area, California.
Application Review Process
You will receive an email from IAM staff within 5-7 business days to confirm whether your application package is complete.
Project leaders / Applicants will then be invited to a short meeting with IAM’s Executive Director to discuss your project and answer any questions.
IAM reviews applications based on:
- How well the project aligns with IAM’s charitable purpose, mission, and values
- Relevant experience and commitment of project leaders
- Clarity of project goals and plans
- Compliance with IRS guidelines for 501(c)(3) organizations
- Specific needs of the project and its organizational framework
For Model A Applicants:
IAM will also look at your strategies for fundraising and program growth, potential liabilities and personnel needs, legal considerations, and your understanding of the Model A relationship.
IAM is highly selective when approving Model A Affiliates and must be approved by the IAM Board of Directors.
We encourage most projects to first apply for Model C+ fiscal sponsorship, with the possibility of converting to Model A in the future.
Fall 2026 - Timeline & Next Steps
Application Deadline: Monday, August 10, 2026
Application Interviews: Completed by Tuesday, August 25, 2026
Decision Notifications: Sent by Monday, August 31, 2026 (Model A applicants notified by Thursday, September 4, 2026)
If Approved:
You'll be required to participate in a mandatory 3-session onboarding cohort.
Each 90-minute session will start at 5:30 PM (Pacific) and will be hosted virtually on Zoom.
Onboarding Session Dates & Topics:
September 10, 2026: Welcome & fundraising basics with IAM
September 17, 2026: IAM’s financial management systems
October 1, 2026: Overview of IAM’s supplemental services (workshops, promotional support, coaching, etc.)
If you have questions, concerns, or need additional accommodations for onboarding, please contact IAM's Affiliate Services Coordinator at Traka@artsandmedia.net.
Questions?
If you have any questions about IAM’s fiscal sponsorship services or the application process, please email us at Traka@artsandmedia.net. We’re here to help!
Get ready to start your journey as a fiscally sponsored project with IAM!