Moving to OSC from Another Fiscal Sponsor

If you're currently hosted by another fiscal sponsor and considering a transition to Open Source Collective, here's what you need to know.

Already Have a Fiscal Host/Fiscal Sponsor?

If you're considering moving to Open Source Collective (OSC) from another fiscal host, please share why you believe OSC is a better fit for your project. Contact us to ensure we can support you quickly and appropriately.

Moving to Open Source Collective

Moving from another host that uses the Open Collective platform

If you are transitioning from an organization that uses the Open Collective platform, the process is relatively simple.

Moving from a host that does not use the Open Collective platform

If your project is currently with another organization that does not use Open Collective, the process will depend on that organization’s requirements. Generally, they will transfer your money to OSC and we will get you up and running on Open Collective.

Please be sure to communicate your plans to us within your application and your current organization in advance of your application to ensure a smooth transition.

Once you have tied up any loose ends with your current host, they can transfer the funds to us electronically. We can issue an invoice to them and sign agreements if needed. Our normal fees apply to funds transferred in.

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Moving from a 501(c)(3) Fiscal Host/Fiscal Sponsor

Key Differences between the nonprofit types

• 501(c)(3) — A c3 nonprofit is for public benefit.

• 501(c)(6) — A c6 nonprofit is for member benefit.

What does the difference between a c3 and a c6 mean to me and my project?

As a 501(c)(6), OSC's mission is to promote a sustainable and healthy ecosystem to sustain open source technology for the future, from its maintainers to its funders. Because we are a member-benefit organization, our primary purpose is to support our members.

• As a c6, we have a wider range for what type of open source projects we can accept than a c3 can. (please refer to our guidelines on what we need to accept a project)
• We have straightforward requirements around the documentation needed to process expenses. Please see our guides on what we need to see in expenses here.
• We are not restricted to a location. We can host open source projects around the globe and pay non-us-based maintainers.

That said, there are some things we won't be able to offer that 501(c)(3)s can, including:

• Tax-deductible receipts to donors

• Fundraising support