The process to become a stand-alone charitable organization, or 501(c)(3) status, can be a long and expensive endeavor. To enable RPI to begin operations and accept tax-deductible donations quickly, we sought out a fiscal sponsor. Under fiscal sponsorship, RPI is able to utilize the charitable status of an existing non-profit organization to apply for and accept grants, accept tax-deductible donations from the public, and carry out other tax-exempt activities necessary to execute our mission.

RPI chose Earth Island Institute, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, as our fiscal sponsor. Under the project agreement with Earth Island Institute, RPI is able to operate as a virtually independent charitable organization, enabling us to carry out our work for coral reef conservation.

 

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