[OScubed]

This is a presentation I did for raising money for not-for-profits. This particular presentation is not targeted specifically at FIRST (I did it for a local symphony orchestra) but the ideas are common no matter what kind of NFP you run. I serve on a number of not-for-profit boards.

Feel free to copy and distribute, or drop me a line if you'd like a "FIRST" customized version of it, or have any questions.

The big thing that new NFPs forget when they are raising money is to PUSH THEIR SPONSORS. These guys and gals GAVE you money. Mention them every place you can - whenever you have an interview, show the robot off, in your pits, on the robot itself, on your banners and T-Shirts, on TV etc. Think NASCAR. If you watch a NASCAR race you'll see the sponsors name on EVERYTHING. It's INSIDE THE HOOD in case the engine fails and they have a shot of the engine on TV. Give back at least as much as you get, and you'll get more money and better sponsors next year.

Your goal should be that the SPONSOR'S CUSTOMERS and PERFECT STRANGERS, come up to them and say "hey - I saw you sponsored a FIRST team! Can you tell me more about that?". I guarantee that if at least one customer comes up to them and says that each year - they'll sponsor again and again. And guess what - that fits into Woody's mission to "spread the word" about FIRST because by promoting your sponsors - you're also promoting yourselves.

Cheers,
Lee Drake