[DonRotolo]

You asked how to approach a company for funds, what would they like to hear?

My recommendation is to pick two or three companies in the area - one large (nationally known), and one or two smaller ones. Ask if you can speak to their PR department or corporate giving department, and make it clear that you are NOT asking them for money. Instead, ask them those questions about approaching other companies.

It's not a sneaky way to get funding; it's an excellent way to get professional advice on a topic you need to learn about. Most company people will be happy to share their expertise.

One of our early sponsors had to drop out for financial reasons; we invited their corporate giving officer to meet with five students, to get advice on approaching other companies. We made it clear we weren't looking for funding, but advice. They were tickled pink to help, their advice was VERY valuable to us, and that company has remained peripherally involved with us four more years.

It takes some 'guts' to ask, but do it anyway.