Simple to start.
Built to last.
Becoming an APC-sponsored organization is straightforward. Here's everything you need to know — from your first application to active sponsorship and beyond.
Apply
Submit your sponsorship request form
Get Approved
APC board reviews your application
Sign the MOU
Annual agreement signed by both parties
Receive Funding
Donations and grants flow through APC
Grow
We handle compliance so you focus on mission
Step by step, from application to active sponsorship.
Here's what each stage of the relationship looks like in practice — what you do, what APC does, and what to expect along the way.
The process is designed to be lightweight for your organization and fully compliant for your funders. Most sponsored organizations are up and running within a few weeks of applying.
Submit Your Sponsorship Request
Complete the APC Fiscal Sponsorship Request Form and tell us about your organization — your mission, programs, team, and financial situation. There are no trick questions.
What you doBoard Review & Decision
The APC board reviews every application personally. We look for organizations that are mission-driven, committed to the communities they serve, and ready to be accountable to a fiscal sponsor relationship.
What APC doesSign the Fiscal Sponsorship Agreement
Once approved, both your organization and APC sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) — a straightforward agreement that outlines the terms of the sponsorship. Renewed annually.
Both partiesStart Receiving Donations & Grants
Your organization is now active under APC's 501(c)(3) umbrella. Donors can make tax-deductible gifts and funders can direct grants to APC on your behalf. We forward 95% of all funds to you promptly.
What APC doesSubmit Quarterly Reports
Four times a year, submit a simple report covering your organization's activities, programs, and expenditures. Intentionally minimal — our clients consistently describe it as low-burden.
What you doWe Handle Compliance
APC files the annual IRS Form 990, completes the CPA audit, and manages all regulatory reporting to the Minnesota Attorney General. You focus on your mission. We handle the paperwork.
What APC doesOne flat fee. No surprises.
APC charges a single flat 5% administrative fee on all gifts and grants received on your behalf. That's it. No setup costs, no hidden charges.
This fee covers everything — banking, accounting, reporting, foundation interaction, CPA audit costs, and technical services. The remaining 95% goes directly to your organization.
A few things people often ask.
These are the questions we hear most often about how the process works. Visit our full FAQ page for more.
Does my organization need to be a nonprofit already?
No. APC serves emerging groups pursuing their own 501(c)(3) status as well as established organizations that want the support of a fiscal sponsor.
How long does the process take?
Once you submit your application, the board reviews it and responds with next steps. Timeline varies but we aim to keep the process moving quickly.
Does APC control how we spend our money?
No. APC is a flow-through sponsor — we process and forward your funds. Your organization manages and accounts for how money is spent in service of your mission.
Is there a time limit on the sponsorship?
No fixed limit. The MOU renews annually. Some organizations stay for years, others transition to their own 501(c)(3) — both are great outcomes.
Ready to apply for fiscal sponsorship?
Tell us about your organization and your mission. The APC board reviews every application personally — we'd love to hear what you're building.