Form990
Click to see attachment
Department of the TreasuryInternal Revenue Service
Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax
Under section 501(c), 527, or 4947(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code (except private foundations)
MediumBullet Do not enter social security numbers on this form as it may be made public.
MediumBullet Go to www.irs.gov/Form990 for instructions and the latest information.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2019
Open to Public Inspection
A For the 2019 calendar year, or tax year beginning 01-01-2019 , and ending 12-31-2019
BCheck if applicable:
CName of organization
BALLOT INITIATIVE STRATEGY CENTER INC
 
 
Doing business as
 
 
Number and street (or P.O. box if mail is not delivered to street address)
1660 L STREET NW NO 605
 
Room/suite
City or town, state or province, country, and ZIP or foreign postal code
WASHINGTON, DC20036
D Employer identification number

04-3411708
E Telephone number

G Gross receipts $ 1,336,292
F Name and address of principal officer:
CHRIS MELODY FIGUEREDO
1660 L STREET NW NO 605
WASHINGTON,DC20036
I
Tax-exempt status: ( 4 ) LeftBullet (insert no.) or
J
Website:MediumBullet
WWW.BALLOT.ORG
H(a)
Is this a group return for
subordinates?
H(b)
Are all subordinates
included?
If "No," attach a list. (see instructions)
H(c)
Group exemption number MediumBullet  
K Form of organization:  
L Year of formation: 1998
M State of legal domicile: DC
Part I
Summary
Activities & Governance 1 Briefly describe the organization’s mission or most significant activities: TO STRENGTHEN DEMOCRACY BY BUILDING A NATIONAL PROGRESSIVE STRATEGY FOR BALLOT MEASURES.
2 Check this box MediumBullet
3 Number of voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1a) ........ 3 13
4 Number of independent voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1b) ..... 4 13
5 Total number of individuals employed in calendar year 2019 (Part V, line 2a) ...... 5 12
6 Total number of volunteers (estimate if necessary) ............. 6 13
7a Total unrelated business revenue from Part VIII, column (C), line 12 ........ 7a 0
b Net unrelated business taxable income from Form 990-T, line 39 ......... 7b 0
Revenues Prior Year Current Year
8 Contributions and grants (Part VIII, line 1h) ......... 1,690,856 1,048,989
9 Program service revenue (Part VIII, line 2g) ......... 353,561 280,776
10 Investment income (Part VIII, column (A), lines 3, 4, and 7d ) .... 0 0
11 Other revenue (Part VIII, column (A), lines 5, 6d, 8c, 9c, 10c, and 11e) 51,438 6,527
12 Total revenue—add lines 8 through 11 (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12) 2,095,855 1,336,292
Expenses; 13 Grants and similar amounts paid (Part IX, column (A), lines 1–3 )... 130,000 0
14 Benefits paid to or for members (Part IX, column (A), line 4)..... 0 0
15 Salaries, other compensation, employee benefits (Part IX, column (A), lines 5–10) 973,183 966,980
16a Professional fundraising fees (Part IX, column (A), line 11e) ..... 0 0
b Total fundraising expenses (Part IX, column (D), line 25) MediumBullet200,681    
17 Other expenses (Part IX, column (A), lines 11a–11d, 11f–24e).... 1,085,111 947,115
18 Total expenses. Add lines 13–17 (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) 2,188,294 1,914,095
19 Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 18 from line 12....... -92,439 -577,803
Net Assets or Fund Balances; Beginning of Current Year End of Year
20 Total assets (Part X, line 16)............. 1,450,670 961,603
21 Total liabilities (Part X, line 26)............. 116,603 205,339
22 Net assets or fund balances. Subtract line 21 from line 20..... 1,334,067 756,264
Part II
Signature Block
Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer (other than officer) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.
Sign Here
JumboBullet
Signature of officer Date
JumboBullet
Type or print name and title
Paid Preparer Use Only
Print/Type preparer's name
Preparer's signature
Date
PTIN
Firm's name MediumBullet

Firm's EIN MediumBullet
Firm's address MediumBullet



Phone no.
May the IRS discuss this return with the preparer shown above? (see instructions) ..........
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the separate instructions.
Cat. No. 11282Y Form 990 (2019)
Form 990 (2019)
Page 2
Part III
Statement of Program Service Accomplishments
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part III..............
1
Briefly describe the organization’s mission: BALLOT INITIATIVE STRATEGY CENTER, INC. (BISC) STRENGTHENS DEMOCRACY BY BUILDING A NATIONAL PROGRESSIVE STRATEGY FOR BALLOT MEASURES.
2
Did the organization undertake any significant program services during the year which were not listed on
the prior Form 990 or 990-EZ? .....................
If "Yes," describe these new services on Schedule O.
3
Did the organization cease conducting, or make significant changes in how it conducts, any program
services? ...........................
If "Yes," describe these changes on Schedule O.
4
Describe the organization’s program service accomplishments for each of its three largest program services, as measured by expenses. Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations are required to report the amount of grants and allocations to others, the total expenses, and revenue, if any, for each program service reported.
4a (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 463,209 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
STRATEGIC INITIATIVES: BISC STRENGTHENED BALLOT MEASURE CAPACITY AND LEADERSHIP IN STATES VIA A VARIETY OF FORUMS, CONVENINGS, TRAININGS AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE. IN ADDITION, WE COLLABORATED WITH NATIONAL AND STATE PARTNERS ON A NATIONAL LONG-TERM BALLOT MEASURE STRATEGY.
4b (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 316,681 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 20,400 )
TRAINING - BISC'S TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES EQUIP PEOPLE WITH ESSENTIAL BALLOT-MEASURE CAMPAIGN SKILLS, BEST PRACTICES, AND THE LESSONS WE'VE LEARNED FROM 20 YEARS OF ORGANIZATIONAL EXPERIENCE. EACH OFFERING FEATURES SPECIFIC RACE, EQUITY, AND POWER CHOICES AND TRAINS LEADERS WHO CAN RUN WINNING, TRANSFORMATIONAL CAMPAIGNS THAT LEAVE LEADERSHIP AND INFRASTRUCTURE IN STATES LONG AFTER ELECTION DAY.
4c (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 284,618 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 196,876 )
ROAD AHEAD: ROAD AHEAD IS AN ANNUAL CONFERENCE BRINGING TOGETHER MORE THAN 400 PEOPLE FROM 26 STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. ROAD AHEAD BRINGS TOGETHER PARTICIPANTS REPRESENTING A BROAD RANGE OF ISSUES, INCLUDING LABOR, REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH, GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION, LGBTQ EQUALITY, VOTING RIGHTS, CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM, IMMIGRANT RIGHTS, ECONOMIC JUSTICE AND THE ENVIRONMENT.
(Code:   ) (Expenses $ 357,578 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
OTHER PROGRAMS
4d Other program services (Describe in Schedule O.)
(Expenses $ 357,578 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
4e Total program service expensesMediumBullet1,422,086
Form 990 (2019)
Form 990 (2019)
Page 3
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules
Yes
No
1
Is the organization described in section 501(c)(3) or 4947(a)(1) (other than a private foundation)? If "Yes," complete Schedule A.....................
1
 
No
2
Is the organization required to complete Schedule B, Schedule of Contributors (see instructions)? Click to see attachment...
2
Yes
 
3
Did the organization engage in direct or indirect political campaign activities on behalf of or in opposition to candidates for public office? If "Yes," complete Schedule C, Part I.............
3
 
No
4
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization engage in lobbying activities, or have a section 501(h) election in effect during the tax year? If "Yes," complete Schedule C, Part II.........
4
 
 
5
Is the organization a section 501(c)(4), 501(c)(5), or 501(c)(6) organization that receives membership dues, assessments, or similar amounts as defined in Revenue Procedure 98-19? If "Yes," complete Schedule C, Part III..
5
 
No
6
Did the organization maintain any donor advised funds or any similar funds or accounts for which donors have the right to provide advice on the distribution or investment of amounts in such funds or accounts? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IClick to see attachment.........................
6
 
No
7
Did the organization receive or hold a conservation easement, including easements to preserve open space,
the environment, historic land areas, or historic structures? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IIClick to see attachment....
7
 
No
8
Did the organization maintain collections of works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets? If "Yes,"
complete Schedule D, Part IIIClick to see attachment..............
8
 
No
9
Did the organization report an amount in Part X, line 21 for escrow or custodial account liability; serve as a custodian for amounts not listed in Part X; or provide credit counseling, debt management, credit repair, or debt negotiation services? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IVClick to see attachment..............
9
 
No
10
Did the organization, directly or through a related organization, hold assets in temporarily restricted endowments, permanent endowments, or quasi endowments? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part V......
10
 
No
11
If the organization’s answer to any of the following questions is "Yes," then complete Schedule D, Parts VI, VII, VIII, IX, or X as applicable.
a
Did the organization report an amount for land, buildings, and equipment in Part X, line 10? If "Yes," complete
Schedule D, Part VI. Click to see attachment...................
11a
Yes
 
b
Did the organization report an amount for investments—other securities in Part X, line 12 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VIIClick to see attachment.......
11b
 
No
c
Did the organization report an amount for investments—program related in Part X, line 13 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VIIIClick to see attachment.......
11c
 
No
d
Did the organization report an amount for other assets in Part X, line 15 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IXClick to see attachment............
11d
Yes
 
e
Did the organization report an amount for other liabilities in Part X, line 25? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part XClick to see attachment
11e
Yes
 
f
Did the organization’s separate or consolidated financial statements for the tax year include a footnote that addresses the organization’s liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740)? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part XClick to see attachment
11f
Yes
 
12a
Did the organization obtain separate, independent audited financial statements for the tax year? If "Yes," complete
Schedule D, Parts XI and XIIClick to see attachment......................
12a
Yes
 
b
Was the organization included in consolidated, independent audited financial statements for the tax year? If "Yes," and if the organization answered "No" to line 12a, then completing Schedule D, Parts XI and XII is optional Click to see attachment
12b
 
No
13
Is the organization a school described in section 170(b)(1)(A)(ii)? If "Yes," complete Schedule E
13
 
No
14a
Did the organization maintain an office, employees, or agents outside of the United States? .....
14a
 
No
b
Did the organization have aggregate revenues or expenses of more than $10,000 from grantmaking, fundraising, business, investment, and program service activities outside the United States, or aggregate foreign investments valued at $100,000 or more? If "Yes," complete Schedule F, Parts I and IV.........
14b
 
No
15
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of grants or other assistance to or for any foreign organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Parts II and IV.....
15
 
No
16
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of aggregate grants or other assistance to or for foreign individuals? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Parts III and IV...
16
 
No
17
Did the organization report a total of more than $15,000 of expenses for professional fundraising services on Part IX, column (A), lines 6 and 11e? If "Yes," complete Schedule G, Part I(see instructions) ....
17
 
No
18
Did the organization report more than $15,000 total of fundraising event gross income and contributions on Part VIII, lines 1c and 8a? If "Yes," complete Schedule G, Part II............
18
 
No
19
Did the organization report more than $15,000 of gross income from gaming activities on Part VIII, line 9a? If "Yes," complete Schedule G, Part III...................
19
 
No
20a
Did the organization operate one or more hospital facilities? If "Yes," complete Schedule H....
20a
 
No
b
If "Yes" to line 20a, did the organization attach a copy of its audited financial statements to this return?
20b
 
 
21
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants or other assistance to any domestic organization or domestic government on Part IX, column (A), line 1? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and II.....
21
 
No
Form 990 (2019)
Form 990 (2019)
Page 4
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules (continued)
Yes
No
22
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants or other assistance to or for domestic individuals on Part IX, column (A), line 2? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and III........
22
 
No
23
Did the organization answer "Yes" to Part VII, Section A, line 3, 4, or 5 about compensation of the organization’s current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees? If "Yes," complete Schedule J.......................
23
 
No
24a
Did the organization have a tax-exempt bond issue with an outstanding principal amount of more than $100,000 as of the last day of the year, that was issued after December 31, 2002? If “Yes,” answer lines 24b through 24d and complete Schedule K. If “No,” go to line 25a...............
24a
 
No
b
Did the organization invest any proceeds of tax-exempt bonds beyond a temporary period exception?...
24b
 
 
c
Did the organization maintain an escrow account other than a refunding escrow at any time during the year
to defease any tax-exempt bonds? ...............
24c
 
 
d
Did the organization act as an "on behalf of" issuer for bonds outstanding at any time during the year?...
24d
 
 
25a
Section 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(29) organizations. Did the organization engage in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person during the year? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part I ....
25a
 
No
b
Is the organization aware that it engaged in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person in a prior year, and that the transaction has not been reported on any of the organization’s prior Forms 990 or 990-EZ? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part I.......................
25b
 
No
26
Did the organization report any amount on Part X, line 5 or 22 for receivables from or payables to any current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, creator or founder, substantial contributor, or 35% controlled entity or family member of any of these persons? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part II...........
26
 
No
27
Did the organization provide a grant or other assistance to any current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, creator or founder, substantial contributor, or employee thereof, a grant selection committee member, or to a 35% controlled entity (including an employee thereof) or family member of any of these persons?
If "Yes," complete
Schedule L, Part III.........................
27
 
No
28
Was the organization a party to a business transaction with one of the following parties (see Schedule L, Part IV instructions for applicable filing thresholds, conditions, and exceptions):
a
A current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, creator or founder, or substantial contributor? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part IV......................
28a
 
No
b
A family member of any individual described in line 28a? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part IV.....
28b
 
No
c
A 35% controlled entity of one or more individuals and/or organizations described in lines 28a or 28b? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part IV.....................
28c
 
No
29
Did the organization receive more than $25,000 in non-cash contributions? If "Yes," complete Schedule M..
29
 
No
30
Did the organization receive contributions of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets, or qualified conservation contributions? If "Yes," complete Schedule M .................
30
 
No
31
Did the organization liquidate, terminate, or dissolve and cease operations? If "Yes," complete Schedule N, Part I
31
 
No
32
Did the organization sell, exchange, dispose of, or transfer more than 25% of its net assets? If "Yes," complete Schedule N, Part II........................
32
 
No
33
Did the organization own 100% of an entity disregarded as separate from the organization under Regulations sections 301.7701-2 and 301.7701-3? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part I............
33
 
No
34
Was the organization related to any tax-exempt or taxable entity? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part II, III, or IV, and Part V, line 1.........................
34
 
No
35a
Did the organization have a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)?
35a
 
No
b
If ‘Yes’ to line 35a, did the organization receive any payment from or engage in any transaction with a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2 ...
35b
 
 
36
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization make any transfers to an exempt non-charitable related organization? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2.............
36
 
 
37
Did the organization conduct more than 5% of its activities through an entity that is not a related organization and that is treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part VI
37
 
No
38
Did the organization complete Schedule O and provide explanations in Schedule O for Part VI, lines 11b and 19? Note. All Form 990 filers are required to complete Schedule O. ............
38
Yes
 
Part V
Statements Regarding Other IRS Filings and Tax Compliance
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part V...........
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number reported in Box 3 of Form 1096. Enter -0- if not applicable ..
1a
17
b
Enter the number of Forms W-2G included in line 1a. Enter -0- if not applicable .
1b
0
c
Did the organization comply with backup withholding rules for reportable payments to vendors and reportable gaming (gambling) winnings to prize winners? ..................
1c
Yes
 
Form 990 (2019)
Form 990 (2019)
Page 5
Part V
Statements Regarding Other IRS Filings and Tax Compliance (continued)
2a
Enter the number of employees reported on Form W-3, Transmittal of Wage and
Tax Statements, filed for the calendar year ending with or within the year covered by this return ..................
2a
12
b
If at least one is reported on line 2a, did the organization file all required federal employment tax returns?
Note. If the sum of lines 1a and 2a is greater than 250, you may be required to e-file (see instructions)
2b
Yes
 
3a
Did the organization have unrelated business gross income of $1,000 or more during the year?...
3a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” has it filed a Form 990-T for this year? If “No” to line 3b, provide an explanation in Schedule O...
3b
 
 
4a
At any time during the calendar year, did the organization have an interest in, or a signature or other authority over, a financial account in a foreign country (such as a bank account, securities account, or other financial account)? ..
4a
 
No
b
If "Yes," enter the name of the foreign country: MediumBullet
See instructions for filing requirements for FinCEN Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR).
5a
Was the organization a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction at any time during the tax year? ..
5a
 
No
b
Did any taxable party notify the organization that it was or is a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction?
5b
 
No
c
If "Yes," to line 5a or 5b, did the organization file Form 8886-T? ............
5c
 
 
6a
Does the organization have annual gross receipts that are normally greater than $100,000, and did the organization solicit any contributions that were not tax deductible as charitable contributions? ...
6a
Yes
 
b
If "Yes," did the organization include with every solicitation an express statement that such contributions or gifts were not tax deductible? ......................
6b
Yes
 
7
Organizations that may receive deductible contributions under section 170(c).
a
Did the organization receive a payment in excess of $75 made partly as a contribution and partly for goods and services provided to the payor? ....................
7a
 
 
b
If "Yes," did the organization notify the donor of the value of the goods or services provided? .....
7b
 
 
c
Did the organization sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of tangible personal property for which it was required to file Form 8282? .........................
7c
 
 
d
If "Yes," indicate the number of Forms 8282 filed during the year ....
7d
 
e
Did the organization receive any funds, directly or indirectly, to pay premiums on a personal benefit contract?
7e
 
 
f
Did the organization, during the year, pay premiums, directly or indirectly, on a personal benefit contract? ..
7f
 
 
g
If the organization received a contribution of qualified intellectual property, did the organization file Form 8899 as required? ......................
7g
 
 
h
If the organization received a contribution of cars, boats, airplanes, or other vehicles, did the organization file a Form 1098-C? ..........................
7h
 
 
8
Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds. Did a donor advised fund maintained by the sponsoring organization have excess business holdings at any time during the year? ........
8
 
 
9
Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds.
a
Did the sponsoring organization make any taxable distributions under section 4966?........
9a
 
 
b
Did the sponsoring organization make a distribution to a donor, donor advisor, or related person?...
9b
 
 
10
Section 501(c)(7) organizations. Enter:
a
Initiation fees and capital contributions included on Part VIII, line 12 ...
10a
 
b
Gross receipts, included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, for public use of club facilities
10b
 
11
Section 501(c)(12) organizations. Enter:
a
Gross income from members or shareholders .........
11a
 
b
Gross income from other sources (Do not net amounts due or paid to other sources against amounts due or received from them.) ..........
11b
 
12a
Section 4947(a)(1) non-exempt charitable trusts. Is the organization filing Form 990 in lieu of Form 1041?
12a
 
 
b
If "Yes," enter the amount of tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the year.
12b
 
13
Section 501(c)(29) qualified nonprofit health insurance issuers.
a
Is the organization licensed to issue qualified health plans in more than one state? .........
Note. See the instructions for additional information the organization must report on Schedule O.
13a
 
 
b
Enter the amount of reserves the organization is required to maintain by the states in which the organization is licensed to issue qualified health plans ....
13b
 
c
Enter the amount of reserves on hand ............
13c
 
14a
Did the organization receive any payments for indoor tanning services during the tax year?.....
14a
 
No
b
If "Yes," has it filed a Form 720 to report these payments? If "No," provide an explanation in Schedule O..
14b
 
 
15
Is the organization subject to the section 4960 tax on payment(s) of more than $1,000,000 in remuneration or excess parachute payment(s) during the year? ....................
If "Yes," see instructions and file Form 4720, Schedule N.
15
 
No
16
Is the organization an educational institution subject to the section 4968 excise tax on net investment income? ..
If "Yes," complete Form 4720, Schedule O.
16
 
No
Form 990 (2019)
Form 990 (2019)
Page 6
Part VI
Governance, Management, and Disclosure For each "Yes" response to lines 2 through 7b below, and for a "No" response to lines 8a, 8b, or 10b below, describe the circumstances, processes, or changes in Schedule O. See instructions.
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part VI..............
Section A. Governing Body and Management
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number of voting members of the governing body at the end of the tax year
1a
13
If there are material differences in voting rights among members of the governing body, or if the governing body delegated broad authority to an executive committee or similar committee, explain in Schedule O.
b
Enter the number of voting members included in line 1a, above, who are independent
1b
13
2
Did any officer, director, trustee, or key employee have a family relationship or a business relationship with any other officer, director, trustee, or key employee? .................
2
 
No
3
Did the organization delegate control over management duties customarily performed by or under the direct supervision of officers, directors or trustees, or key employees to a management company or other person? .
3
 
No
4
Did the organization make any significant changes to its governing documents since the prior Form 990 was filed? .
4
 
No
5
Did the organization become aware during the year of a significant diversion of the organization’s assets? .
5
 
No
6
Did the organization have members or stockholders? ................
6
 
No
7a
Did the organization have members, stockholders, or other persons who had the power to elect or appoint one or more members of the governing body? ....................
7a
 
No
b
Are any governance decisions of the organization reserved to (or subject to approval by) members, stockholders, or persons other than the governing body? ...................
7b
 
No
8
Did the organization contemporaneously document the meetings held or written actions undertaken during the year by the following:
a
The governing body? .......................
8a
Yes
 
b
Each committee with authority to act on behalf of the governing body? ............
8b
Yes
 
9
Is there any officer, director, trustee, or key employee listed in Part VII, Section A, who cannot be reached at the organization’s mailing address? If "Yes," provide the names and addresses in Schedule O.......
9
 
No
Section B. Policies (This Section B requests information about policies not required by the Internal Revenue Code.)
Yes
No
10a
Did the organization have local chapters, branches, or affiliates? ............
10a
 
No
b
If "Yes," did the organization have written policies and procedures governing the activities of such chapters, affiliates, and branches to ensure their operations are consistent with the organization's exempt purposes?
10b
 
 
11a
Has the organization provided a complete copy of this Form 990 to all members of its governing body before filing the form? ............................
11a
Yes
 
b
Describe in Schedule O the process, if any, used by the organization to review this Form 990. .....
12a
Did the organization have a written conflict of interest policy? If "No," go to line 13.......
12a
Yes
 
b
Were officers, directors, or trustees, and key employees required to disclose annually interests that could give rise to conflicts? ..........................
12b
Yes
 
c
Did the organization regularly and consistently monitor and enforce compliance with the policy? If "Yes," describe in Schedule O how this was done...................
12c
Yes
 
13
Did the organization have a written whistleblower policy? ...............
13
Yes
 
14
Did the organization have a written document retention and destruction policy? .........
14
Yes
 
15
Did the process for determining compensation of the following persons include a review and approval by independent persons, comparability data, and contemporaneous substantiation of the deliberation and decision?
a
The organization’s CEO, Executive Director, or top management official ...........
15a
Yes
 
b
Other officers or key employees of the organization ................
15b
 
No
If "Yes" to line 15a or 15b, describe the process in Schedule O (see instructions).
16a
Did the organization invest in, contribute assets to, or participate in a joint venture or similar arrangement with a taxable entity during the year? ......................
16a
 
No
b
If "Yes," did the organization follow a written policy or procedure requiring the organization to evaluate its participation in joint venture arrangements under applicable federal tax law, and take steps to safeguard the organization’s exempt status with respect to such arrangements? ............
16b
 
 
Section C. Disclosure
17
List the states with which a copy of this Form 990 is required to be filedMediumBullet
MA
18
Section 6104 requires an organization to make its Form 1023 (or 1024-A if applicable), 990, and 990-T (501(c)(3)s only) available for public inspection. Indicate how you made these available. Check all that apply.
19
Describe in Schedule O whether (and if so, how) the organization made its governing documents, conflict of interest policy, and financial statements available to the public during the tax year.
20
State the name, address, and telephone number of the person who possesses the organization's books and records:
MediumBulletVICTORIA WARD1660 L STREET NW NO 605   WASHINGTON,DC20036 (202) 223-2373
Form 990 (2019)
Form 990 (2019)
Page 7
Part VII
Compensation of Officers, Directors,Trustees, Key Employees, Highest Compensated Employees, and Independent Contractors
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part VII..............
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees
1a Complete this table for all persons required to be listed. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current officers, directors, trustees (whether individuals or organizations), regardless of amount
of compensation. Enter -0- in columns (D), (E), and (F) if no compensation was paid.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current key employees, if any. See instructions for definition of "key employee."
RoundBullet List the organization’s five current highest compensated employees (other than an officer, director, trustee or key employee)
who received reportable compensation (Box 5 of Form W-2 and/or Box 7 of Form 1099-MISC) of more than $100,000 from the
organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former officers, key employees, or highest compensated employees who received more than $100,000
of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former directors or trustees that received, in the capacity as a former director or trustee of the
organization, more than $10,000 of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

See instructions for the order in which to list the persons above.
Check this box if neither the organization nor any related organization compensated any current officer, director, or trustee.
(A)
Name and title 		(B)
Average hours per week (list any hours for related organizations below dotted line) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W-2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W-2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; OfficerInd; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; FormerOfcrDirectorTrusteeInd;
(1) DANA LAURENT......................................................................
DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
 32.00
.................
  		        X   119,029 0 23,164
(2) JANE NORMAN......................................................................
CHIEF OF STAFF
 28.00
.................
  		        X   103,175 0 13,279
(3) CHRIS MELODY FIELDS FIGUEREDO......................................................................
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
 24.00
.................
  		    X       101,982 0 10,527
(4) ALISON K SCHWARTZ......................................................................
MANAGING DIRECTOR
 24.00
.................
  		        X   101,927 0 5,829
(5) DOUG BURNETT......................................................................
CHAIR
 1.00
.................
  		X   X       0 0 0
(6) GREG SPEED......................................................................
TREASURER
 1.00
.................
  		X   X       0 0 0
(7) BRANDON BOSWELL......................................................................
SECRETARY
 1.00
.................
  		X   X       0 0 0
(8) RICK DE LA FUENTE......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 1.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(9) JENNIFER EPPS-ADDISON......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 1.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(10) JORDAN FITZGERALD......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 1.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(11) JOHN LOREDO......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 1.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(12) DESMOND MEADE......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 1.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(13) ADEMOLA OYEFESO......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 1.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(14) SAYRE REECE......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 1.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(15) SUZANNE RUECKER......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 1.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(16) SARAH STANDIFORD......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 1.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(17) GAIL STOLTZ......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 1.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
Form 990 (2019)
Form 990 (2019)
Page 8
Part VII
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees (continued)
(A)
Name and title 		(B)
Average hours per week (list any hours for related organizations below dotted line) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W-2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W-2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; OfficerInd; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; FormerOfcrDirectorTrusteeInd;


























1b Sub-Total................MediumBullet
c Total from continuation sheets to Part VII, Section A....MediumBullet
d Total (add lines 1b and 1c)...........MediumBullet 426,113 0 52,799
2
Total number of individuals (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of reportable compensation from the organization MediumBullet4
Yes
No
3
Did the organization list any former officer, director or trustee, key employee, or highest compensated employee on line 1a? If "Yes," complete Schedule J for such individual ..............
3
 
No
4
For any individual listed on line 1a, is the sum of reportable compensation and other compensation from the organization and related organizations greater than $150,000? If "Yes," complete Schedule J for such
individual...........................
4
 
No
5
Did any person listed on line 1a receive or accrue compensation from any unrelated organization or individual for services rendered to the organization? If "Yes," complete Schedule J for such person ........
5
 
No
Section B. Independent Contractors
1
Complete this table for your five highest compensated independent contractors that received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
(A)
Name and business address 		(B)
Description of services 		(C)
Compensation
LINCOLN PARK STRATEGIES

611 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE SE
WASHINGTON,DC20003 		SURVEY AND STRATEGY 125,000
SUJATA TEJWANI

1920 L STREET NW SUITE 775
WASHINGTON,DC20036 		TRAINING WORKSHOP 115,093
2
Total number of independent contractors (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization MediumBullet2
Form 990 (2019)
Form 990 (2019)
Page 9
Part VIII
Statement of Revenue
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part VIII.............
(A)
Total revenue 		(B)
Related or
exempt
function
revenue 		(C)
Unrelated
business
revenue 		(D)
Revenue
excluded from
tax under sections
512 - 514
Contributions, Gifts, GrantAmt and OtherAmt Similar Amounts 1a Federated campaigns..1a  
b Membership dues..1b  
c Fundraising events..1c  
d Related organizations1d  
e Government grants (contributions)1e  
f All other contributions, gifts, grants, and similar amounts not included above1f 1,048,989
g Noncash contributions included in lines 1a - 1f:$ 1g  
h Total. Add lines 1a-1f.......MediumBullet 1,048,989
Program Service RevenueAmt Business Code
2a CONFERENCE 900099 260,376 196,876   63,500
b TRAININGS 900099 20,400 20,400    
c
d
e
f All other program service revenue.        
g Total. Add lines 2a–2f .....MediumBullet 280,776
OtherAmtRevenueAmt 3 Investment income (including dividends, interest, and othersimilar amounts) ......MediumBullet        
4 Income from investment of tax-exempt bond proceedsMediumBullet        
5 Royalties...........MediumBullet        
(ii) Personal (i) Real
6a Gross rents     6a
b Less: rental expenses     6b
c Rental income or (loss)     6c
d Net rental income or (loss).......MediumBullet        
(ii) Other (i) Securities
7a Gross amount from sales of assets other than inventory     7a
b Less: cost or other basis and sales expenses     7b
c Gain or (loss)     7c
d Net gain or (loss).........MediumBullet        
8a Gross income from fundraising events (not including $   of contributions reported on line 1c). See Part IV, line 18 ....
8a  
b Less: direct expenses ... 8b  
c Net income or (loss) from fundraising events..MediumBullet      
9a Gross income from gaming activities.
See Part IV, line 19 ...
9a  
b Less: direct expenses ... 9b  
c Net income or (loss) from gaming activities..MediumBullet        
10a Gross sales of inventory, less
returns and allowances ..
10a  
b Less: cost of goods sold .. 10b  
c Net income or (loss) from sales of inventory..MediumBullet        
Business Code Miscellaneous Revenue
11a REWARDS 900099 3,889     3,889
b REIMBURSEMENTS 900099 2,638     2,638
c            
d All other revenue ....        
e Total. Add lines 11a–11d ...... MediumBullet 6,527
12 Total revenue. See instructions.....MediumBullet 1,336,292 217,276 0 70,027
Form 990 (2019)
Form 990 (2019)
Page 10
Part IX
Statement of Functional Expenses
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations must complete all columns. All other organizations must complete column (A).Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part IX..............
Do not include amounts reported on lines 6b,
7b, 8b, 9b, and 10b of Part VIII. 		(A)
Total expenses 		(B)
Program service expenses 		(C)
Management and general expenses 		(D)
Fundraising
expenses
1 Grants and other assistance to domestic organizations and domestic governments. See Part IV, line 21 ....    
2 Grants and other assistance to domestic individuals. See Part IV, line 22 ...........    
3 Grants and other assistance to foreign organizations, foreign governments, and foreign individuals. See Part IV, lines 15 and 16. .............    
4 Benefits paid to or for members .......    
5 Compensation of current officers, directors, trustees, and key employees ........... 112,509 33,753 11,251 67,505
6 Compensation not included above, to disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B) .........        
7 Other salaries and wages........ 680,538 479,040 104,382 97,116
8 Pension plan accruals and contributions (include section 401(k) and 403(b) employer contributions) .... 31,687 23,773 3,590 4,324
9 Other employee benefits ....... 81,636 59,369 6,168 16,099
10 Payroll taxes ........... 60,610 39,664 9,723 11,223
11 Fees for services (non-employees):        
a Management ......        
b Legal ......... 1,575   1,575  
c Accounting ........... 54,270   54,270  
d Lobbying ...........        
e Professional fundraising services. See Part IV, line 17    
f Investment management fees ......        
g Other (If line 11g amount exceeds 10% of line 25, column (A) amount, list line 11g expenses on Schedule O) 397,251 369,854 24,096 3,301
12 Advertising and promotion ....        
13 Office expenses ....... 10,643 6,776 3,837 30
14 Information technology ...... 22,216 12,841 9,304 71
15 Royalties ..        
16 Occupancy ........... 83,759 48,905 34,586 268
17 Travel ............ 92,658 88,456 3,558 644
18 Payments of travel or entertainment expenses for any federal, state, or local public officials .        
19 Conferences, conventions, and meetings .... 244,668 243,313 1,345 10
20 Interest ...........        
21 Payments to affiliates .......        
22 Depreciation, depletion, and amortization .. 9,152 5,291 3,831 30
23 Insurance ... 5,059 2,924 2,119 16
24 Other expenses. Itemize expenses not covered above (List miscellaneous expenses in line 24e. If line 24e amount exceeds 10% of line 25, column (A) amount, list line 24e expenses on Schedule O.)
a PROF. DEVELOPMENT 11,943   11,943  
b SUBSCRIPTIONS 11,441 6,693 4,712 36
c DUES 1,229 713 512 4
d TAXES AND FEES 595 343 250 2
e All other expenses 656 378 276 2
25 Total functional expenses. Add lines 1 through 24e 1,914,095 1,422,086 291,328 200,681
26 Joint costs. Complete this line only if the organization reported in column (B) joint costs from a combined educational campaign and fundraising solicitation. Check here MediumBullet if following SOP 98-2 (ASC 958-720).        
Form 990 (2019)
Form 990 (2019)
Page 11
Part X
Balance Sheet
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part IX..............
(A)
Beginning of year 		(B)
End of year
Assets 1 Cash–non-interest-bearing ........ 850,652 1 593,094
2 Savings and temporary cash investments .........   2  
3 Pledges and grants receivable, net ...... 325,000 3 0
4 Accounts receivable, net .............   4  
5 Loans and other payables to any current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, creator or founder, substantial contributor, or 35% controlled entity or family member of any of these persons .......
  5  
6 Loans and other receivables from other disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)), and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B) ...
  6  
7 Notes and loans receivable, net ...........   7  
8 Inventories for sale or use ............   8  
9 Prepaid expenses and deferred charges ...... 33,669 9 68,447
10a Land, buildings, and equipment: cost or other basis. Complete Part VI of Schedule D 10a 94,977
b Less: accumulated depreciation 10b 62,936 38,863 10c 32,041
11 Investments—publicly traded securities .   11  
12 Investments—other securities. See Part IV, line 11 .....   12  
13 Investments—program-related. See Part IV, line 11 ..   13  
14 Intangible assets ...............   14  
15 Other assets. See Part IV, line 11 ........... 202,486 15 268,021
16 Total assets. Add lines 1 through 15 (must equal line 33)... 1,450,670 16 961,603
Liabilities 17 Accounts payable and accrued expenses ..... 46,903 17 78,406
18 Grants payable ...   18  
19 Deferred revenue ......... 0 19 8,000
20 Tax-exempt bond liabilities .........   20  
21 Escrow or custodial account liability. Complete Part IV of Schedule D   21  
22 Loans and other payables to any current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, creator or founder, substantial contributor, or 35% controlled entity or family member of any of these persons .........
  22  
23 Secured mortgages and notes payable to unrelated third parties ..   23  
24 Unsecured notes and loans payable to unrelated third parties ..   24  
25 Other liabilities (including federal income tax, payables to related third parties, and other liabilities not included on lines 17 - 24). Complete Part X of Schedule D 69,700 25 118,933
26 Total liabilities. Add lines 17 through 25.. 116,603 26 205,339
Net Assets or Fund Balance Organizations that follow FASB ASC 958, check here MediumBullet and complete lines 27, 28, 32, and 33.
27 Net assets without donor restrictions .......... 1,009,067 27 606,264
28 Net assets with donor restrictions ........... 325,000 28 150,000
Organizations that do not follow FASB ASC 958, check here MediumBullet and complete lines 29 through 33.
29 Capital stock or trust principal, or current funds .....   29  
30 Paid-in or capital surplus, or land, building or equipment fund ...   30  
31 Retained earnings, endowment, accumulated income, or other funds   31  
32 Total net assets or fund balances ........... 1,334,067 32 756,264
33 Total liabilities and net assets/fund balances ........ 1,450,670 33 961,603
Form 990 (2019)
Form 990 (2019)
Page 12
Part XI
Reconcilliation of Net Assets
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part XI..............
1
Total revenue (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12) ............
1
1,336,292
2
Total expenses (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) ............
2
1,914,095
3
Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 2 from line 1 ..............
3
-577,803
4
Net assets or fund balances at beginning of year (must equal Part X, line 32, column (A)) ..
4
1,334,067
5
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments ...............
5
 
6
Donated services and use of facilities .................
6
 
7
Investment expenses .....................
7
 
8
Prior period adjustments .....................
8
 
9
Other changes in net assets or fund balances (explain in Schedule O) ........
9
0
10
Net assets or fund balances at end of year. Combine lines 3 through 9 (must equal Part X, line 32, column (B))
10
756,264
Part XII
Financial Statements and Reporting
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part XII.............
Yes
No
1
Accounting method used to prepare the Form 990:  
If the organization changed its method of accounting from a prior year or checked "Other," explain in
Schedule O.
2a
Were the organization’s financial statements compiled or reviewed by an independent accountant?
2a
 
No
If ‘Yes,’ check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were compiled or reviewed on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:
b
Were the organization’s financial statements audited by an independent accountant?
2b
Yes
 
If ‘Yes,’ check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were audited on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:
c
If "Yes," to line 2a or 2b, does the organization have a committee that assumes responsibility for oversight of the audit, review, or compilation of its financial statements and selection of an independent accountant?
2c
Yes
 
If the organization changed either its oversight process or selection process during the tax year, explain in Schedule O.
3a
As a result of a federal award, was the organization required to undergo an audit or audits as set forth in the Single Audit Act and OMB Circular A-133?
3a
 
No
b
If "Yes," did the organization undergo the required audit or audits? If the organization did not undergo the required audit or audits, explain why in Schedule O and describe any steps taken to undergo such audits.
3b
 
 
Form 990 (2019)
Form 990 (2019)
Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
Form 990, Special Condition Description:
Special Condition Description
Schedule B
(Form 990, 990-EZ,
or 990-PF)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Schedule of Contributors

Arrow Bullet Attach to Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF.
Arrow Bullet Go to www.irs.gov/Form990 for the latest information.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2019
Name of the organization
BALLOT INITIATIVE STRATEGY CENTER INC
 
Employer identification number

04-3411708
Organization type (check one):
Filers of:
Section:
Form 990 or 990-EZ






Form 990-PF




Check if your organization is covered by the General Rule or a Special Rule.  
Note: Only a section 501(c)(7), (8), or (10) organization can check boxes for both the General Rule and a Special Rule. See instructions.
General Rule
Special Rules
......... Arrow Bullet $  
Caution: An organization that isn't covered by the General Rule and/or the Special Rules doesn't file Schedule B (Form 990,
990-EZ, or 990-PF), but it must answer “No” on Part IV, line 2, of its Form 990; or check the box on line H of its Form 990-EZ
or on its Form 990PF, Part I, line 2, to certify that it doesn't meet the filing requirements of Schedule B (Form 990,
990-EZ, or 990-PF).
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions
for Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF.
Cat. No. 30613XSchedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2019)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2019) Page 2
Name of organization
BALLOT INITIATIVE STRATEGY CENTER INC
  		Employer identification number
04-3411708
Part I
Contributors
Contributors (see instructions). Use duplicate copies of Part I if additional space is needed.
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
RESTRICTED
 
 
 
 
  ,    

$ RESTRICTED


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 
 

$  


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 
 

$  


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 
 

$  


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 
 

$  


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 
 

$  


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2019)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2019)
Page 3
Name of organization
BALLOT INITIATIVE STRATEGY CENTER INC
  		Employer identification number

04-3411708
Part II
Noncash Property (see instructions). Use duplicate copies of Part II if additional space is needed.
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(See instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(See instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(See instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(See instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(See instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(See instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2019)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2019)
Page 4
Name of organization
BALLOT INITIATIVE STRATEGY CENTER INC
  		Employer identification number

04-3411708
Part III
Exclusively religious, charitable, etc., contributions to organizations described in section 501(c)(7), (8), or (10) that total more than $1,000 for the year from any one contributor. Complete columns (a) through (e) and the following line entry. For organizations completing Part III, enter the total of exclusively religious, charitable, etc., contributions of $1,000 or less for the year. (Enter this information once. See instructions.) Arrow Bullet$  
Use duplicate copies of Part III if additional space is needed.
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b) Purpose of gift (c) Use of gift (d) Description of how gift is held
 
(e) Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
     
 
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b) Purpose of gift (c) Use of gift (d) Description of how gift is held
 
(e) Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
     
 
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b) Purpose of gift (c) Use of gift (d) Description of how gift is held
 
(e) Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
     
 
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b) Purpose of gift (c) Use of gift (d) Description of how gift is held
 
(e) Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
     
 
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2019)

Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
SCHEDULE D
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Financial Statements
SchDMd Bullet Complete if the organization answered "Yes," on Form 990,
Part IV, line 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, 11f, 12a, or 12b.
SchDMd Bullet Attach to Form 990.
SchDMd Bullet Go to www.irs.gov/Form990 for instructions and the latest information.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2019
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
BALLOT INITIATIVE STRATEGY CENTER INC
 
Employer identification number

04-3411708
Part I
Organizations Maintaining Donor Advised Funds or Other Similar Funds or Accounts. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 6.
(a) Donor advised funds (b) Funds and other accounts
1 Total number at end of year .........    
2 Aggregate value of contributions to (during year)    
3 Aggregate value of grants from (during year)    
4 Aggregate value at end of year ........    
5
Did the organization inform all donors and donor advisors in writing that the assets held in donor advised funds are the organization’s property, subject to the organization’s exclusive legal control? ............
6
Did the organization inform all grantees, donors, and donor advisors in writing that grant funds can be used only for charitable purposes and not for the benefit of the donor or donor advisor, or for any other purpose conferring impermissible private benefit? ...................................
Part II
Conservation Easements.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 7.
1
Purpose(s) of conservation easements held by the organization (check all that apply).
2
Complete lines 2a through 2d if the organization held a qualified conservation contribution in the form of a conservation easement on the last day of the tax year.
Held at the End of the Year
a Total number of conservation easements ...................... 2a  
b Total acreage restricted by conservation easements .................... 2b  
c Number of conservation easements on a certified historic structure included in (a) ..... 2c  
d Number of conservation easements included in (c) acquired after 7/25/06, and not on a historic structure listed in the National Register ... 2d  
3
Number of conservation easements modified, transferred, released, extinguished, or terminated by the organization during the
tax year SchDMd Bullet  
4
Number of states where property subject to conservation easement is located SchDMd Bullet  
5
Does the organization have a written policy regarding the periodic monitoring, inspection, handling of violations, and enforcement of the conservation easements it holds? ............
6
Staff and volunteer hours devoted to monitoring, inspecting, handling of violations, and enforcing conservation easements during the year
SchDMd Bullet  
7
Amount of expenses incurred in monitoring, inspecting, handling of violations, and enforcing conservation easements during the year
SchDMd Bullet $  
8
Does each conservation easement reported on line 2(d) above satisfy the requirements of section 170(h)(4)(B)(i) and section 170(h)(4)(B)(ii)? .............................
9
In Part XIII, describe how the organization reports conservation easements in its revenue and expense statement, and
balance sheet, and include, if applicable, the text of the footnote to the organization’s financial statements that describes
the organization’s accounting for conservation easements.
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 8.
1a
If the organization elected, as permitted under FASB ASC 958, not to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education, or research in furtherance of public service, provide, in Part XIII, the text of the footnote to its financial statements that describes these items.
b
If the organization elected, as permitted under FASB ASC 958, to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education, or research in furtherance of public service, provide the following amounts relating to these items:
(i)
Revenue included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 .........................SchDMd Bullet $  
(ii)
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ...............................SchDMd Bullet $  
2
If the organization received or held works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets for financial gain, provide the
following amounts required to be reported under FASB ASC 958 relating to these items:
a
Revenue included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 ..........................SchDMd Bullet $  
b
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ...............................SchDMd Bullet $  
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 52283D
Schedule D (Form 990) 2019

Schedule D (Form 990) 2019
Page 2
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets (continued)
3
Using the organization’s acquisition, accession, and other records, check any of the following that are a significant use of its collection items (check all that apply):
a
d
b
e
 
c
4
Provide a description of the organization’s collections and explain how they further the organization’s exempt purpose in
Part XIII.
5
During the year, did the organization solicit or receive donations of art, historical treasures or other similar
assets to be sold to raise funds rather than to be maintained as part of the organization’s collection?...
Part IV
Escrow and Custodial Arrangements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 9, or reported an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21.
1a
Is the organization an agent, trustee, custodian or other intermediary for contributions or other assets not
included on Form 990, Part X? ....................................
b If "Yes," explain the arrangement in Part XIII and complete the following table: Amount
c Beginning balance ............................. 1c  
d Additions during the year ............................ 1d  
e Distributions during the year .......................... 1e  
f Ending balance ................................ 1f  
2a
Did the organization include an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21, for escrow or custodial account liability? ...
b
If "Yes," explain the arrangement in Part XIII. Check here if the explanation has been provided in Part XIII ....
Part V
Endowment Funds.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 10.
(a) Current year (b) Prior year (c) Two years back (d) Three years back (e) Four years back
1a Beginning of year balance ....          
b Contributions ...          
c Net investment earnings, gains, and losses          
d Grants or scholarships ...          
e Other expenditures for facilities
and programs ... 		         
f Administrative expenses ....          
g End of year balance ......          
2
Provide the estimated percentage of the current year end balance (line 1g, column (a)) held as:
a
Board designated or quasi-endowment SchDMd Bullet  
b
Permanent endowment SchDMd Bullet  
c
Term endowment SchDMd Bullet  
The percentages on lines 2a, 2b, and 2c should equal 100%.
3a
Are there endowment funds not in the possession of the organization that are held and administered for the
organization by:

Yes
No
(i) Unrelated organizations .................
3a(i)
 
 
(ii) Related organizations .................
3a(ii)
 
 
b
If "Yes" on 3a(ii), are the related organizations listed as required on Schedule R? .........
3b
 
 
4
Describe in Part XIII the intended uses of the organization's endowment funds.
Part VI
Land, Buildings, and Equipment.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 11a. See Form 990, Part X, line 10.
Description of property (a) Cost or other basis
(investment) 		(b) Cost or other basis (other) (c) Accumulated depreciation (d) Book value
1a Land .....      
b Buildings ....        
c Leasehold improvements        
d Equipment ....   59,756 54,413 5,343
e Other .....   35,221 8,523 26,698
Total. Add lines 1a through 1e. (Column (d) must equal Form 990, Part X, column (B), line 10(c).)..SchDMdBullet 32,041
Schedule D (Form 990) 2019

Schedule D (Form 990) 2019
Page 3
Part VII
Investments—Other Securities.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 11b. See Form 990, Part X, line 12.
(a) Description of security or category
(including name of security)		 (b) Book value (c) Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value
(1) Financial derivatives.........    
(2) Closely-held equity interests........    
(3)Other
(B)
(C)
(D)
(E)
(F)
(G)
(H)
(I)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col. (B) line 12.)Small Bullet  
Part VIII
Investments—Program Related. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11c. See Form 990, Part X, line 13.
(a) Description of investment (b) Book value (c) Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
(10)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 13.)Small Bullet  
Part IX
Other Assets.
Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11d. See Form 990, Part X, line 15.
(a) Description (b) Book value
(1)DUE FROM BISC FOUNDATION 256,202
(2)DEPOSITS 11,819
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
(10)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 15.)...........Small Bullet 268,021
Part X
Other Liabilities.
Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11e or 11f. See Form 990, Part X, line 25.
1.(a) Description of liability (b) Book value
(1) Federal income taxes  
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 25.)Small Bullet 118,933
2. Liability for uncertain tax positions. In Part XIII, provide the text of the footnote to the organization's financial statements that reports the organization's liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740). Check here if the text of the footnote has been provided in Part XIII
Schedule D (Form 990) 2019

Schedule D (Form 990) 2019
Page 4
Part XI Reconciliation of Revenue per Audited Financial Statements With Revenue per Return. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 12a.
1 Total revenue, gains, and other support per audited financial statements ....... 1 1,336,292
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12:
a Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments .... 2a  
b Donated services and use of facilities ......... 2b  
c Recoveries of prior year grants ........... 2c  
d Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ............ 2d  
e Add lines 2a through 2d ..................... 2e 0
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1.................. 3 1,336,292
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b . 4a  
b Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ........... 4b  
c Add lines 4a and 4b.................... 4c 0
5 Total revenue. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 12.) ...... 5 1,336,292
Part XII Reconciliation of Expenses per Audited Financial Statements With Expenses per Return. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 12a.
1 Total expenses and losses per audited financial statements ........... 1 1,914,095
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part IX, line 25:
a Donated services and use of facilities ......... 2a  
b Prior year adjustments ............ 2b  
c Other losses ................ 2c  
d Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ............ 2d  
e Add lines 2a through 2d.................... 2e 0
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1................... 3 1,914,095
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part IX, line 25, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b .. 4a  
b Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ............ 4b  
c Add lines 4a and 4b..................... 4c 0
5 Total expenses. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 18.) ...... 5 1,914,095
Part XIII
Supplemental Information
Provide the descriptions required for Part II, lines 3, 5, and 9; Part III, lines 1a and 4; Part lV, lines 1b and 2b; Part V, line 4; Part X, line 2; Part XI, lines 2d and 4b; and Part XII, lines 2d and 4b. Also complete this part to provide any additional information.
Return Reference Explanation
PART X, LINE 2: FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2019, BISC HAS DOCUMENTED ITS CONSIDERATION OF FASB ASC 740-10, INCOME TAXES, THAT PROVIDES GUIDANCE FOR REPORTING UNCERTAINTY IN INCOME TAXES AND HAS DETERMINED THAT NO MATERIAL UNCERTAIN TAX POSITIONS QUALIFY FOR EITHER RECOGNITION OR DISCLOSURE IN THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
Schedule D (Form 990) 2019


Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  




SCHEDULE O
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Information to Form 990 or 990-EZ

Complete to provide information for responses to specific questions on
Form 990 or 990-EZ or to provide any additional information.
MediumBullet Attach to Form 990 or 990-EZ.
MediumBullet Go to www.irs.gov/Form990 for the latest information.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2019
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
BALLOT INITIATIVE STRATEGY CENTER INC
 
Employer identification number

04-3411708
Return Reference Explanation
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 11B THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS REVIEWS AND APPROVES THE AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, ALONG WITH THE FEDERAL FORM 990. BISC'S COUNSEL ALSO REVIEWS THE DRAFT VERSION OF THE FEDERAL FORM 990 PRIOR TO FILING WITH THE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 12C IN ORDER TO ADDRESS A CONFLICT OF INTEREST, AN INTERESTED PERSON MUST DISCLOSE THE EXISTENCE OF THE FINANCIAL INTEREST AND BE GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO DISCLOSE ALL MATERIAL FACTS TO THE DIRECTORS OR, IF APPLICABLE, TO THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE WHEN CONSIDERING THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION OR ARRANGEMENT. IF THE BOARD OR EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE HAS REASONABLE CAUSE TO BELIEVE A DIRECTOR HAS FAILED TO DISCLOSE ACTUAL OR POSSIBLE CONFLICTS OF INTEREST, IT SHALL INFORM THE DIRECTOR OF THE BASIS FOR SUCH BELIEF AND AFFORD THE DIRECTOR AN OPPORTUNITY TO EXPLAIN THE ALLEGED FAILURE TO DISCLOSE. IF, AFTER HEARING THE DIRECTOR'S RESPONSE AND AFTER MAKING FURTHER INVESTIGATION AS WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES, THE BOARD OR COMMITTEE DETERMINES THE DIRECTOR HAS FAILED TO DISCLOSE AN ACTUAL OR POSSIBLE CONFLICT OF INTEREST, IT SHALL TAKE APPROPRIATE DISCIPLINARY CORRECTIVE ACTION.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 15A PRIOR TO DETERMINING A COMPENSATION INCREASE FOR THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, A COMPENSATION ANALYSIS IS COMPLETED BY THE HUMAN RESOURCES CONSULTANT. THIS ANALYSIS IS COMPILED USING SALARY INFORMATION FROM FORM 990S AND SURVEYS FROM SIMILAR ORGANIZATIONS. THIS INFORMATION IS PROVIDED TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR THEIR USE IN DETERMINING A SALARY INCREASE FOR THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AS PART OF AN ANNUAL EVALUATION PROCESS. ANY INCREASE IN COMPENSATION FOR THIS POSITION REQUIRES APPROVAL OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS. THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS THEN PROVIDES A LETTER OR EMAIL TO THE HUMAN RESOURCES STAFF ON THE NEWLY APPROVED SALARY AND EFFECTIVE DATE.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION C, LINE 19 BISC MAKES ITS GOVERNING DOCUMENTS, CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY, AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC UPON REQUEST.
FORM 990, PART IX, LINE 11G OTHER CONSULTING: PROGRAM SERVICE EXPENSES 216,433. MANAGEMENT AND GENERAL EXPENSES 11,620. FUNDRAISING EXPENSES 3,217. TOTAL EXPENSES 231,270. RESEARCH: PROGRAM SERVICE EXPENSES 138,245. MANAGEMENT AND GENERAL EXPENSES 0. FUNDRAISING EXPENSES 0. TOTAL EXPENSES 138,245. PAYROLL SERVICE FEES: PROGRAM SERVICE EXPENSES 15,176. MANAGEMENT AND GENERAL EXPENSES 10,995. FUNDRAISING EXPENSES 84. TOTAL EXPENSES 26,255. BENEFIT PLAN ADMINISTRATION: PROGRAM SERVICE EXPENSES 0. MANAGEMENT AND GENERAL EXPENSES 1,481. FUNDRAISING EXPENSES 0. TOTAL EXPENSES 1,481.
FORM 990, PART V, LINE 2A BISC AND BISC FOUNDATION HAVE A COST SHARING AGREEMENT PURSUANT TO WHICH BISC FOUNDATION REIMBURSES BISC FOR BISC FOUNDATION'S SHARE OF ANY EMPLOYEE TIME DEVOTED TO ITS ACTIVITIES. EMPLOYEES RECEIVE A W-2 FROM BISC.
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 51056K
Schedule O (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2019


Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version: