Fiscal Sponsors: How they can help launch your nonprofit

When starting a nonprofit, people sometimes they want to figure out if their idea will work before committing to a legal framework and IRS tax status. Other times they want to get the ball rolling before making that move. Still other times the work will be limited in scope and not seem to merit founding a legal structure. In cases like this, using a fiscal sponsor can be just the ticket. This session explores the idea of fiscal sponsorship including the benefits and pitfalls.

This meetup is open to all and designed for: • People with an idea who want to explore starting a nonprofit

• People who have recently started a nonprofit

• Board members, founders, and executive directors of new nonprofits

There is no cost to attend. Drinks and food are available from Zoiglhaus. (This is scheduled during their happy hour.) The venue is open to all ages and is kid friendly. We will gather around a table or possible take over a small room (depending on turnout and availability.)

I am Richard Seymour of Mahonia Consulting. I have worked with nonprofit organizations since the 1970s and helped found Free Geek, a nonprofit here in Portland where I worked for 15 years, most recently as Director of Operations. I have also helped establish nonprofits in Minnesota, and have worked with many such organizations over the years. I worked with the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, and am a member of the Nonprofit Association of Oregon and the Oregon chapter of the Organizational Development Network. I am here to facilitate a discussion between people and to point people toward resources.