Become a Trust for Conservation Innovation Project FAQ
- Is my project right for the Trust for Conservation Innovation (TCI)?
- Why should I choose TCI as my fiscal sponsor?
- How do I become a TCI project?
- How long does the process take?
- How much does it cost?
- How do you decide which projects to accept?
- What do I get if my project is accepted?
- What if I still have questions?
Is my project right for the Trust for Conservation Innovation (TCI)?
Trust for Conservation Innovation (TCI) projects have a firm commitment to the environment and an innovative, detailed plan to create real, sustainable change on a large scale. If you are ready to move forward and carry out your vision, but are getting bogged down in the day-to-day administrative and financial aspects of managing your organization, TCI can help.
Why should I choose TCI as my fiscal sponsor?
Because TCI focuses solely on environmental projects, we are just as passionate about the environment as the visionary leaders we support. Our projects all benefit from being part of a family of organizations working towards similar goals. We are also small enough to offer customized, individual attention and get things started quickly, but large enough to offer a full range of fiscal sponsorship services at a competitive rate. Read more about fiscal sponsorship.
How do I become a TCI project?
Once you've reviewed our eligibility checklist, e-mail us at info@trustforconservationinnovation.org to set up an appointment to talk about your idea. If your project sounds like it's right for TCI, we'll ask you to fill out an application, which will immediately trigger our review process (no waiting until the next board meeting — we know your time is precious).
How long does the process take?
From the time you submit your application to TCI, it usually takes about a month for us to review it, meet with you, and submit it for review by our board. Applications are considered on a rolling basis, not just when the board meets. We're flexible. Be sure to let us know if you need us to expedite your request to meet a funding-critical deadline.
How much does it cost?
There is no fee for applying to become a TCI project. If your project is accepted, in exchange for tax-exempt nonprofit status and all of TCI's financial, administrative, grant management, and HR services, projects pay TCI 8% of the revenue they generate (12% of revenue from government sources). This fee structure is competitive, and compares favorably with our competition.
How do you decide which projects to accept?
First and foremost, projects must be working to further our mission to protect and conserve the natural environment. If your project is in line with our mission statement, then we look for preparedness and how much thought has gone into your plan to fund and meet your organization's objectives. Lastly, TCI is interested in projects that are committed to long-term, sustainable change on a large scale.
What do I get if my project is accepted?
TCI will not only provide nonprofit status for your project so that you can get the funding you need, we'll provide financial and administrative support, and help you navigate the tricky waters of legal and financial regulations. Our experts take care of the financial, administrative, and legal aspects of running a nonprofit for you so that you can focus on carrying out your mission. Read more about our services.
What if I still have questions?
Our Resources page includes links to outside resources that provide information about fiscal sponsorship and getting funding for your organization. If you have specific questions for TCI, please contact Carin D’Oliva at 415.421.3774 or carin@trustforconservationinnovation.org.