[Chief Hedgehog]

I am assuming that you have already purchased your equipment - no matter what you settled on, it will be beneficial.

Now that the season is over, I hope you have a plan to bring in more sponsors. If not, you are already behind. Here is what you do:

Create three lists:
The first list should be of possible sponsors. Find a connection to each of these (members, parents that are involved on your team that know a person). Then go after them ruthlessly. Beg for a presentation by your team and then march out the best students that can spout the ethos of your program. Make certain you bring a working robot that they can see.

The second list is what you need to be competitive in the next five years. Once you know this, you can start knocking off the machines as you gain more sponsors.

The final list is of possible fundraisers and outreach events. Never discount the energy of your members and how creative they can be. Figure out ways to raise money and ways to get in front of the public.

Good Luck!