Embarc Collective is a nonpartisan organization that encourages a diversity of perspectives and conversations on technology, innovation, and job creation.
Who will we let use the facility?
Embarc Collective welcomes elected officials and high-profile visitors of all political parties and perspectives to host their events at our facility. Embarc Collective uses its discretion when booking visitors based on availability and other factors, and Embarc Collective has the ultimate determination over who can rent space and when.
How much will we charge political visitors?
Elected officials visiting Embarc Collective in a campaign capacity are charged non-member pricing just as any other external organization.
Are third parties allowed to participate?
Not only are they allowed, third parties are encouraged to participate in these events. Often, the contract will be with a third party, who is hosting the political visitor at Embarc Collective.
Are all politicians or elected officials considered political visitors?
No. Per the IRS guidelines below, we consider political visitors to be politicians actively involved in a high-profile and highly visible campaign. Sitting elected officials coming in their business and governmental capacity are not subject to this policy. They are welcomed as any other visitor would be to the space, and Embarc Collective often hosts elected officials for no charge. The judgments on these matters are made by the Embarc Collective team.
Can politicians fundraise at Embarc Collective?
Absolutely not. No political fundraising takes place at Embarc Collective nor does Embarc Collective fundraise on behalf of any political candidate.
Will we let political visitors use the Embarc Collective brand on marketing materials?
Political events held at Embarc Collective are not cobranded. All marketing and promotional collateral surrounding the event does not include the Embarc Collective brand or logo. That said, while they are in the space, they receive the same level of superior customer service as any other visitor, but prior to the visit we are very cautious about communications and that Embarc Collective only appears as the location for the event.
Will we help promote their event?
If requested, Embarc Collective can promote political events according to the standard event promotion schedule and Embarc Collective’s communication guidelines. This can include regular social media posts and the Weekly Collective public newsletter.
Will we include a public disclaimer?
The following disclaimer will be listed on all public Embarc Collective event materials that involve political candidates:
Note: Embarc Collective offers an event venue that is available for open dialogue. Opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers. Embarc Collective believes that the above policy allows the organization to maintain an important role as a venue that welcomes dialogue while avoiding any threat to its nonprofit status.
The IRS Rule
The IRS uses what is called a "facts and circumstances" test to help it determine whether an organization has violated the prohibition on political campaigning. This means that the IRS will evaluate any potential misconduct within the context of the organization's other activities and the current political climate. So, an activity might be considered political campaigning two weeks before an election, but not two years before an election.
Some activities that the IRS has found to violate the prohibition on political campaigning include:
CONTACT US
If you have any questions about this policy, please contact us by email: contact@embarccollective.com.