ESAL serves as a fiscal sponsor for small grants that support local, mission-aligned activities. As a fiscal sponsor, ESAL becomes a partner in a project or event, providing administrative, operational, and advisory support for individuals, groups, or organizations who need a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit status in order to apply for grants. This arrangement is fitting for people and groups who have a local idea they want to pursue, have identified potential small grants to support their idea, and need a nonprofit partner to be eligible to apply for grants. We work with you to submit a proposal, administer a project, and submit grant reports.
ESAL can also serve as a fiscal agent for larger grants for mission-aligned groups or organizations. As a fiscal agent, ESAL extends its 501(c)3 status to groups who plan to lead all project activities but need some accounting services. This arrangement is fitting for groups who are pursuing larger program or operational grants and are willing to allot a fiscal agent fee to a nonprofit able to administer their grants. ESAL will provide accounting and administrative support, but project teams maintain ownership of and accountability for all programmatic decisions.
Active ESAL volunteers and paid network subscribers can apply for up to $250 per local project or event they support or lead in their state or community. ESAL's Civic Engagement Gathering guide and Local Engagement Playbooks are available to anyone looking for guidance to get involved.
