Granting from Outside United States Via a Fiscal Sponsor
We’ve discussed the political risks in the US and the need for funders to take action sooner rather than later. In this article we’re looking at how moving climate philanthropy funds abroad can provide a safe way to protect against future political restrictions and ensure climate groups in the US don’t find themselves suddenly cut off from all funding.
When you use a fiscal sponsor outside the US, you create a legally compliant, politically resilient channel for your climate philanthropy.
And you don’t have to build an international entity from scratch to do it.
How International Fiscal Sponsorship Works
A fiscal sponsor abroad — like The Social Change Nest, based in the UK — provides the infrastructure to:
- Receive your philanthropic funds securely
- Manage compliance with international giving laws
- Distribute funds to your climate grantees across borders
All while insulating your grants from domestic political risk.
This model allows for granting from outside the US, ensuring your impact survives any turbulence at home.
Why Funders Are Moving Climate Philanthropy Funds Internationally
- Stability: Countries like the UK offer more predictable environments for philanthropic funds.
- Security: Shield funds from sudden US regulatory changes.
- Speed: Avoid years of costly international setup processes.
- Focus: Spend your energy on supporting movements, not managing compliance headaches.
Protecting climate grant making is about resilience, strategy, and speed — and using a fiscal sponsor abroad delivers all three.
At The Social Change Nest, we’re proud to offer this bridge – a secure, flexible, politically aware home for your climate philanthropy, wherever it needs to go.
Want to explore international fiscal sponsorship today?
Get in touch and let’s start building resilience into your climate funding strategy.
