[Trying to Help]

As another mentor on a 4-H FRC team, I can tell you that a recent IRS ruling has required our state's 4-H groups to apply for a GEN, as opposed to an EIn. All the application process is being handled at a state level and our only change will be how we handle the financial paperwork from here on out. I recently spoke with someone who works at the state level who said that new clubs would have trouble getting an EIN until this process is complete. Perhaps that's what's happening in your case?

That said, we've applied for several grants over the years where the organization couldn't use/find our EIN in their database. We've asked in those cases to use a state-level EIN. In one case, we had to use the University business office as our fiscal sponsor which meant sending all our original receipts to them and being reimbursed later. We do have to check with the state-level folks to use it because of conflict with other groups needing to use it for the same application but so far, we've been successful with our asking. Perhaps there's someone in your state/county office who could help you there?

That said, I'd definitely urge you not to give up your 4-H status. It's been a terrific partnership for our team. And I completely understand the small town, not a lot of resources aspects of having a FRC team in a rural or semi-rural area.

Best of luck!

-Trying to Help