[EricH]

Ask. Many companies have outreach programs. Others may have grant money. Ask, apply, figure it out. Knowing employees can help, too.

Don't rely completely on one big sponsor, though. When they can't support you anymore, you need something to keep you going, and it's best if you already have some foundation. Also, that may help you, as the company sees "They aren't just trying to get money from us, they're getting it from xyz as well. This is a good thing."