[dricks]

The problem comes down to funding your entry fee and travel. Like many other school events, on team 704 we require our students to provide part of the cost. Last year each of our students were responsible for coming up with $270. We give them opportunities to raise funds. They can bring in a sponsor, raise funds through fund raising, or have mom and dad write the check. This amount pays for most of our travel expenses. We sell E-watt light bulbs, Hex Bugs and wind up robots. We work the refreshment stand at school district sporting events and work other fund raising opportunities.

Students work with mentors on corporate sponsorships. If a student (or group of students ) bring in a new sponsor they get credit against what they need to earn. Returning sponsorships go to team. We have a number of sponsorship in various dollar amounts. Students need to check with their parents employers, many companies will provide sponsorship for non profit activities their employees and their families are involved in. Car dealerships and insurance companies are another good source of sponsorships. Talk to all the companies in your area. They can't say yes if they are not ask.

Finally we do apply for grants. Corporations like Time Warner Cable often offer grants to groups in areas they serve. There may be companies in your area that give FIRST specific grants, but you can also find educational and other grants that might be available.

We attend two Regionals and we work on fund raising year round.