sponsors and Fundraising

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The FRC Fundraising Toolkit ought to have, literally, everything you need to know about fundraising. http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprogr...aising-toolkit

Originally Posted by atucker4072

Are there any ideas on fundraisers that teams have had a huge success with? We do small things that generate small cash but would like to have a fundraiser that we are known for doing and make people want to donate to our team.

FIRST recommends the lightbulbs, but don't do the lightbulbs. I may catch some flame for this, but the lightbulbs are a waste of time when it comes to a long term, sustainable fundraiser. You want your fundraising items to be (1) cheap and (2) expendable. I've seen teams that sell food, looms, etc.

Additionally, you can host car washes and other community service fundraisers. The benefit is two-fold; people may often donate large amounts to help out the team (one man donated $200!) and you will get to meet and talk to members of your community about the team.

Originally Posted by atucker4072

We also live in a area where the are not many big name industries around like Boeing or lockheed. Are there any teams that have the same situation and how have you overcome it?

You know, it can be argued that it's easier to solicit sponsorships from smaller companies and business rather than the larger ones. Lure them in by showing them the power of the program and ask them for small donations ($100 is $100). Over time, the little donations will build up, and overtime, sponsors may opt to increase their support.

The approach has to be elegant, but you'll want to get an "in" (from a parent who frequents the establishment and may know the owner/manager or someone who works there). After that, it falls onto your pitch and how well you sell the message.

- Sunny G.