Think you've got a good project for Umbrella?
Let's make sure before you apply.
Does "fiscal sponsorship" mean you can give my project money?
Nope. Fiscal sponsorship means that we incorporate your work into our mission which allows it to fall under our 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. That means donors will be able to write-off donations to your projects on their taxes.
I've got a troupe of dancing cats. We perform in Senior Centers all over Washington County...
Whoops! We've got to stop you right there. As cool as that sounds, we're an all-volunteer organization and, in order to be effective, we need to keep our focus tight. With very few exceptions, our projects are all 1) in the City of Portland and 2) street or public space-based.
This sounds too good to be true. What's the catch?
There are, basically, two catches:
1) In order to pay for our insurance and general overhead, we take a 10% fee from all donations made to your project. This does not include in-kind donations. So: if someone gives you ten bananas, you keep all ten. If someone gives you $10, we keep $1.
2) We ask that you include our logo on your promotional materials.
Deal. Sign me up! How do I apply?
If all of this sounds good to you, let's talk!