Funding Sources for the End Genocide Action Summit

Consider approaching the following funding sources for support. It is a good idea to provide a one-pager on the End Genocide Action Summit and where their donation will go when you make “the ask.”

1. Student Government and Student Programming Boards– Student governments and programming boards have the largest pool of funds directly available for programming events. Each has its own process for individual events. Usually they require the student or organization to show how the program or campaign will contribute to the overall educational environment of the campus. These funds are usually first come first serve, so you need to get your funding request in early in the semester!

2. Academic Departments and Faculty– Many academic departments have funds available for organizational programming. Often, individual professors have their own discretionary funds which can be made available to students. The important factor when approaching faculty for money is a clear connection between the program or event and the academic mission and goals of the particular department. Finally, get to know active faculty members on your campus. They can often provide assistance or the “inside track” on funds that are available from faculty. They may also require you write a journal or paper in order to receive the funds.

3. Student Government and Student Programming Boards– Student governments and programming boards have the largest pool of funds directly available for programming events. Each has its own process for individual events. Usually they require the student or organization to show how the program or campaign will contribute to the overall educational environment of the campus. These funds are usually first come first serve, so you need to get your funding request in as soon as you can! Need help estimating costs? Email jpolish@standnow.org.

4. Community Organizations and Religious & Faith-Based Groups– Community groups such as civil rights organizations, women’s groups, LGBTQ organizations, local unions, religious, and faith-based groups, and other community organizations are fabulous places to approach for donations. It usually takes a meeting with the local President or Executive Director and some good follow-up to receive a small amount of funding. They will usually ask that they be acknowledged as a co-sponsor on materials for events and campaigns. Your community fundraising efforts will be more successful if you have developed a working relationship with the organization you approach. It is important to community groups to see some investment in their work (beyond just asking for money). Check out our sample community partner invitation that will help your chapter engage community groups in the End Genocide Action Summit.

5. Local Businesses– Local businesses, especially those that serve student populations, are great potential End Genocide Action Summit donors! Start with businesses that have supported other events, either at your university or for other charitable causes. For example, you might ask a local restaurant to provide food for a fundraising event or to donate a percentage of its nightly profits to your End Genocide Action Summit trip fund. Businesses are often more willing to donate items than money, so you might also approach businesses to donate prizes for a raffle or silent auction.

6. Family and Friends– Start your fundraising with the people you know best. Family members and friends can be your biggest supporters. Many people feel uncomfortable about asking friends and family for money, but remember-- you are not asking for money for yourself, you are asking for money to support a cause that is very important to you. See our template letter and script for fundraising from friends and family.