This page walks prospective applicants through the Department of Bioregion’s Fiscal Sponsorship Program (FSP). It covers eligibility, how to choose a sponsorship model, the application steps, and what to prepare before you apply.
If you are new to fiscal sponsorship, read What Is Fiscal Sponsorship first. That page defines the program, explains how Model A and Model C differ, and describes who fiscal sponsorship is designed to serve. This page assumes that context and focuses on the application itself.
Who can apply
The Department of Bioregion sponsors individuals, groups, and initiatives helping to create a world of bioregions and thriving bioregional movements. We welcome applicants whose work is rooted in place and aligned with our mission to regenerate local cultures, economies, and ecosystems through organizing, solidarity, and systems transformation.
We sponsor work that:
- Raises awareness of bioregions, their identities, ecosystems, cultures, and communities through education, learning, research, or storytelling.
- Grows bioregional movements, strengthens local resilience, and cultivates shared identity and belonging rooted in place.
- Promotes bioregionalism as a practical, place-based alternative to extractive systems.
- Protects what is special in each place: land, waters, species, languages, and cultural knowledge.
- Advances grassroots governance, stewardship, mutual aid, and ecological repair.
- Builds regenerative, non-extractive, place-based economic models, including cooperatives, local currencies, and land-based livelihoods.
- Centers frontline communities in climate and ecological justice, including Indigenous peoples, Black and Brown communities, LGBTQ+ communities, and those most affected by extraction and ecological collapse.
Geographic scope is universal. We sponsor projects across bioregions globally, not only Cascadia. Applicants do not need to be incorporated; individuals and unincorporated groups are welcome.
Choosing a model
DOB offers two fiscal sponsorship models. You do not need to decide before you apply, but it helps to come in with a working sense of which fits your situation.
- Model A (Comprehensive). Your project becomes an internal program of DOB. We handle accounting, payroll, insurance, compliance, and reporting under our EIN. Best for early-stage projects, individual organizers, and teams that want full backend support.
- Model C (Pre-Approved Grant Relationship). Your project is a separate legal entity with its own EIN. DOB receives funds and re-grants them to your organization under an approved scope of work. Best for established entities that want grant access and 501(c)(3) eligibility while keeping operational autonomy.
For a fuller comparison, see What Is Fiscal Sponsorship.
The application process
- Initial inquiry. Reach out to fsp@deptofbioregion.org or use the form below to introduce yourself and your project.
- Conversation with DOB staff. We schedule an introductory meeting to learn about your work, your team, and your goals, and to answer your questions about the program. Most applications move faster when this conversation happens before submission.
- Submit your application. Complete the intake form and any supporting attachments. Providing complete information ensures your application can be reviewed without delays.
- Materials review. DOB staff review your application, budget, and supporting documents, and may request clarifications.
- Board review and decision. Applications are reviewed by the DOB Board of Directors. We will follow up within one week of submission to confirm receipt and coordinate timing. Full review can take up to three months.
- Sign the agreement. Upon approval, you sign the fiscal sponsorship agreement that formalizes the relationship and the chosen model.
- Onboarding. We set up your project fund, payment intake, reporting templates, and any other shared infrastructure you need to begin operating.
What to prepare
Have the following ready before you submit:
- A clear project description, including charitable purpose, place-based scope, and how the work aligns with DOB’s mission.
- A project budget covering anticipated revenue and expenses for at least the first year of operation.
- Leadership information: who is responsible for the project, their bios or resumes, and the designated authorizing official for financial decisions.
- Timeline: key milestones, planned activities, and any current or anticipated funding commitments.
- Optional supporting materials: strategic or planning documents, fundraising plans, and marketing or promotional materials.
- For Model C applicants: governing documents, IRS Form SS-4 or equivalent, and proof of separate legal status.
What happens after acceptance
Once approved, your project becomes part of the Department of Bioregion’s 501(c)(3) umbrella. You gain the ability to receive tax-deductible donations and grants, access to a dedicated project fund and payment processors, insurance coverage where applicable, end-of-year tax reporting, mailing address use, and visibility through DOB’s communications channels. DOB applies a 10% administrative fee on incoming revenue to support shared infrastructure. No fee is charged on starting balances brought into the program.
You retain full rights to your work and the funds you raise. You continue to lead day-to-day operations, outreach, and programming. Either party can end the agreement if it is no longer a good fit.
Begin your application
Use the form below to start. You can also email fsp@deptofbioregion.org with questions before submitting. We strongly recommend a brief conversation with a DOB team member before you complete the form.
Application form placeholder. The intake form will be embedded here in the next site update.
If fiscal sponsorship is not the right fit
Not every project needs fiscal sponsorship, and we are happy to point you toward other paths. If you are exploring how to start or strengthen a bioregional team in your own area, write to us about the Bioregional Branches program. If you have a question, a partnership idea, or just want to introduce yourself, write to projects@deptofbioregion.org. We respond to every inquiry.