The FRC Fundraising Toolkit ought to have, literally, everything you need to know about fundraising.
http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprogr...aising-toolkit
FIRST recommends the lightbulbs, but don't do the lightbulbs. I may catch some flame for this, but the lightbulbs are a waste of time when it comes to a long term, sustainable fundraiser. You want your fundraising items to be (1) cheap and (2) expendable. I've seen teams that sell food, looms, etc.
Additionally, you can host car washes and other community service fundraisers. The benefit is two-fold; people may often donate large amounts to help out the team (one man donated $200!) and you will get to meet and talk to members of your community about the team.
You know, it can be argued that it's easier to solicit sponsorships from smaller companies and business rather than the larger ones. Lure them in by showing them the power of the program and ask them for small donations ($100 is $100). Over time, the little donations will build up, and overtime, sponsors may opt to increase their support.
The approach has to be elegant, but you'll want to get an "in" (from a parent who frequents the establishment and may know the owner/manager or someone who works there). After that, it falls onto your pitch and how well you sell the message.
- Sunny G.