# VigilData — Funder FAQ

## Is VigilData a 501(c)(3)?

Not at this time. VigilData currently operates as **VigilData LLC** and is
preparing a nonprofit conversion path. We do not yet claim recognized
501(c)(3) status. Donations are not represented as tax-deductible unless made
through a qualified fiscal sponsor. See /financial-transparency.

## Can a funder still support VigilData while it converts?

Yes — through several common pathways: project grants to the operating
entity, support routed through a qualified fiscal sponsor once configured,
or letters of inquiry/concept notes in a funder's preferred format. We
welcome both project grants and general operating support.

## Is VigilData partisan?

No. VigilData does not endorse candidates, parties, or ballot measures. The
platform is built to function the same regardless of who holds power.

## How is editorial independence protected?

Editorial independence, conflict-of-interest, and donor-independence policies
are published. VigilData declines donations conditioned on coverage,
priorities, or conclusions. VigilData's policy is to not rely on any single
funder for more than one-third of its operating budget where feasible.

## Does VigilData make legal findings or accuse anyone of corruption?

No. VigilData's outputs — including AI Watchdog signals — are research aids
linked to primary sources. Signals such as donor-influence signals,
contribution-to-policy correlations, accountability risk scans, and
elevated-review signals are not legal conclusions of wrongdoing.

## What does AI Watchdog actually do?

It surfaces source-linked summaries and categorical signals from public
records. It does not target private citizens, make legal findings, or replace
human review. See /ai-watchdog/responsible-ai.

## Who runs VigilData?

Currently led by its founder, Kwesi Keller. Other roles are planned but not
filled. Board formation is in progress. See /team and /governance.

## How are grant funds used?

Engineering, ingestion infrastructure, data verification, editorial review,
responsible-AI safeguards, and public-tool maintenance. Marketing and
overhead are deprioritized. See /funder/budget.md.

## What is the right contact for funders?

Grants: grants@vigildata.org. Initial conversations welcome. Concept notes,
LOIs, or full proposals can be provided in a funder's preferred format.