The Fiscal Sponsor Conversations Turns 5!

April marked a significant milestone in the fiscal sponsorship community: the fifth anniversary of Fiscal Sponsor Conversations (FSC). This weekly Zoom forum has become a vital space for connection, learning, and collaboration among fiscal sponsors nationwide.

Launched in April 2020 as the “COVID Conversations,” the forum was co-founded by Andrew Schulman of Schulman Consulting and Oliver Hack of Social Good Fund. It emerged as a rapid response to the confusion surrounding the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) during the early days of the pandemic. The inaugural session brought together 47 participants from across the country to share insights and strategies for navigating PPP complexities. The immediate value of this exchange led Schulman and Hack to continue the conversations weekly, rebranding the series as Fiscal Sponsor Conversations in 2022.

Over the past five years, the forum has evolved into a cornerstone of the fiscal sponsorship sector. As of early April 2025, more than 900 individuals have registered; sessions in the first quarter of 2025 drew more than 100 live attendees. This community now represents 360 fiscal sponsorship practices across 42 U.S. states and five countries.

FSC is free and open to all who work at an organization providing fiscal sponsorship. The forum's weekly sessions cover a broad spectrum of topics, including crafting effective fiscal sponsorship agreements and policies, understanding insurance risks, navigating IRS regulations, and addressing cybersecurity concerns.

The forum's success is also reflected in its inclusive and collaborative ethos. It has become a space where fiscal sponsors can openly discuss challenges, share best practices, and navigate the evolving landscape of nonprofit management. This spirit of mutual support has been instrumental in strengthening the sector's resilience and adaptability.

Beyond the weekly discussions, FSC has fostered deeper connections through its mentorship program, initiated just four months after the forum's inception. This initiative pairs experienced fiscal sponsors with newcomers for monthly one-hour meetings. To date, over three dozen such mentorships have been established, facilitating knowledge transfer and peer support within the community.

As Fiscal Sponsor Conversations celebrates its fifth anniversary, it stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives. What began as a response to an immediate crisis has grown into a sustained platform for professional development and sector-wide collaboration. Looking ahead, the forum is poised to continue its role as a vital resource for fiscal sponsors, fostering innovation and excellence in the field.

For those interested in joining or learning more about the Fiscal Sponsor Conversations:

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