As a somewhat rural FIRST participant who works with many rural teams across WV, there are ways in which to raise the money. Statistically, WV is the most rural state in the US, as defined by the % of population residing outside town or city limits. So, naturally, FIRST growth has been very slow in WV. But it takes innovative and creative solutions to overcome those barriers, and there are many successful programs in WV who have done just that, and helped each other out in reaching that goal.
In short, it IS possible for a rural teams with limited budgets to compete effectively, and it is also possible for rural teams to have large budgets.
I refer you to this thread about Miss Daisy. Limited budget, but extremely successful program.
http://www.chiefdelphi.com/forums/sh...hreadid=116527