Open call for fiscal Sponsors
I. Executive Summary
Cedar Initiative (Community Empowerment for Development & Advocacy Resilience) is a high-impact, youth-led program dedicated to empowering communities through climate action, education, wellness, and innovation to drive sustainable progress globally. We are currently seeking a strategic partnership with an established 501(c)(3) or a registered non-profit to serve as our Fiscal Sponsor. This relationship will provide the critical legal and fiduciary framework necessary for the Initiative to receive tax-deductible contributions and grants, ensuring maximum programmatic impact and compliance while the Initiative pursues independent legal status.
This proposal outlines a framework for a fiscally responsible, mutually beneficial partnership based on compliance, transparency, and a shared commitment to youth & community development.
II. The Initiative’s Core Requirements (The Ask)
The following services and accommodations are requested from the Fiscal Sponsor to ensure the Initiative’s operational stability:
A. Fiduciary and Legal Oversight
Use of 501(c)(3) or Nonprofit Status: The Sponsor will extend its tax-exempt status to the Initiative, allowing us to receive grants and contributions that are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
Financial Stewardship: The Sponsor will manage all funds, process accounts payable, administer payroll (if applicable), and provide necessary financial reports, exercising exclusive fiduciary control over all funds received on the Initiative’s behalf.
Compliance and Reporting: The Sponsor will ensure the Initiative’s activities adhere to all federal and state regulations, including the proper allocation and use of funds in accordance with the Sponsor’s charitable mission and IRS/Local Government Taxation guidelines.
Transitional Support: The sponsorship is requested for a defined, renewable period, serving as a stable bridge to allow the Initiative to successfully achieve its independent non-profit registration.
B. Physical Resource Access (If available)
Scheduled Meeting Space: We request the pre-arranged use of a conference room for up to four (4) structured meetings per quarter, subject to the Sponsor’s internal scheduling policies and availability.
Event Venue Access: We request the potential reservation of the Sponsor’s event facility for up to two (2) annual, large-scale events, pending availability, a formal booking process, and adherence to all facility-use guidelines.
III. Value Proposition and Mutual Benefit
In exchange for assuming fiduciary responsibility, the Initiative offers a demonstrable return on investment through visibility, accountability, and direct in-kind support.
A. Brand Visibility and Credibility
Digital Partnership: The Sponsor’s logo will be prominently featured on the landing page and partnership sections of the Cedar Initiative website, acknowledging the vital role of the fiscal sponsorship.
Co-Branding on Initiatives: The Sponsor will receive co-branding on all public-facing materials, event signage, and media releases for programs conducted under this agreement.
Public Acknowledgment: The Sponsor will be verbally recognized and thanked during the opening or closing remarks of every public event hosted by the Initiative.
Social Media Synergy: A commitment to a minimum of one co-branded social media shout-out per month, highlighting the partnership’s achievements across all active platforms.
B. Accountability and Transparency
Total Financial Transparency: The Sponsor will receive full, comprehensive access to all financial reports, expense documentation, and grant reports, ensuring complete fiscal transparency and oversight.
Programmatic Consultation: The Initiative commits to providing the Sponsor with advance notification and consultation on all new projects, strategic decisions, and intellectual property development related to its activities.
Commitment to Program Integrity: The final agreement will affirm the Sponsor’s commitment to maintaining the specific mission, vision, and operational identity of the Cedar Initiative as the project lead.
C. Direct Reciprocal Support (In-Kind)
Skilled Volunteer Labor: The Initiative commits to providing the Sponsor with 20 hours per month of professional volunteer support from its leadership or youth cohort, offering high-value labor in areas such as event support, research, or communications.
IV. Proposed Financial and Compensation Model
We recognize the significant administrative and legal costs associated with fiscal sponsorship and propose a tiered structure to ensure maximum resource efficiency for both parties.
A. Administrative Fee Structure
Introductory Investment Rate: We respectfully request a time-limited administrative fee of 3% on all funds received during the first 12 months of the agreement. This reduced rate is proposed as an investment in a high-potential startup, enabling the Initiative to maximize its initial program funding and demonstrate rapid impact.
Standard Fee Transition: Following the introductory period, the administrative fee will transition to the Sponsor’s standard organizational rate for similar fiscal sponsorship projects.
B. Compensation for Direct Services
Project-Based Compensation: Compensation for any dedicated, hands-on programmatic support provided by the Sponsor’s staff (e.g., specific project management, grant writing, specialized consulting) will be negotiated separately. These fees will be explicitly itemized and budgeted within the relevant grant or project proposal, ensuring transparent payment for direct services, distinct from the administrative fee.
V. Conclusion
The Cedar Initiative presents a unique opportunity for your organization to partner with a high-potential, compliant, and rapidly growing youth movement. We are prepared to submit a detailed programmatic plan and budget for your immediate review and welcome the opportunity to discuss this proposal further.
Contact:
Md Shahriar Azad Evan
Lead of Program & Partnership
shahriar@cedar-initiative.org
+8801540405257
