[EricH]

Originally Posted by zakk

one thing ive noticed is that alot of teams are sponsored by churches in their area, and like they said above, talk to teams around you.

I don't know about that. I only know of two teams sponsored by a church in any way (through the church's school, usually, and one is now no more). The other has their church as their biggest sponsor, not necessarily in terms of money, but in terms of space/time. Though the team does have to set up their calendar with the church as far in advance as possible. (And the church doesn't contribute money...it's the church members who donate that.) There could be more that I just don't know about.

Talking to teams around you is a good resource, as they may know of something you don't that is available. They may also share shop space and/or mentors with you. Come to think of it--you already are talking to teams around you via CD...

If you can find a machine shop, start twisting arms there (not literally!). You don't necessarily want money from them; rather you want a discount on parts you order from them. (Better: free parts. Start at a discount though. It shows that you are willing to pay. You can go for free parts later.) The same goes for metal stores and hardware stores.