FC offers low cost fiscal sponsorship to independent producers across the country.

Many foundations will not issue grants to individuals, only to non-profits, so as an alternative to starting their own 501(c)3 organization, filmmakers often align themselves with an already-established non-profit. This allows filmmakers to apply for funding to foundations and individual donors for their projects.

But FC is not simply a “pass through;” FC is a member organization that accepts and administers contributions made to our members’ projects, monitors reports to ensure that grant funds are spent in accordance with funder requirements, and acts as the liaison between foundations and filmmakers. FC also fosters a culture of collaboration among our filmmaker-members, offering an annual filmmaking conference, year-round workshops, rough cut screenings and sharing of resources, providing a listserv for easy communication. On a case by case basis we also offer our expertise as coordinating producers and executive producers, helping with production management and story consulting for above-the-line fees.

All creative control belongs to the filmmaker, who must operate as a separate legal entity with proper insurance coverage in place.

Why is FC Fiscal Sponsorship Different?

Selecting the right sponsor for your project is crucial because potential donors carefully consider the track record of your fiscal sponsor. Established in 1986, FC has managed more than $17 million in grants and donations and has sponsored over 100 projects. Many of our films have had national and international prominence, won awards and have been shown both on national television (e.g. PBS) and at festivals throughout the world.

Filmmakers Collaborative fiscal sponsorship covers film and video projects that fall within the following categories:

a) documentary films and other works of nonfiction;
b) narrative, experimental, and animated films;
c) films produced by first-time filmmakers.

How FC Fiscal Sponsorship Works

Once accepted, FC acts as the fiscal sponsor for the duration of your project.

Fiscal fees are currently as follows:

• fiscal fee is 5% of all production income requiring a 501(c)3

To apply, please click on “Eligibility/Application Process” on the left-hand column.