Guidelines for Raising Funds to Attend Fab7

Asking for donations takes a lot of patience and preparations. Don't be intimidated or discouraged if the first few potential sponsors you approach say "no".

1. Do your research.

You will need to make a list of potential sponsors. Think about local companies, individuals, and organizations including your government that you might approach. Which ones support education, capacity building, small business generation? Make a list of these ideas, then use the internet or interview to find out:

  • What is the sponsor's mission? What are the kinds of activities they usually do or support?
  • Who to approach to get sponsorship and the format to approach them (letter, in-person meeting, email, etc)

    Don't forget to check back and see if Fab Foundation, Fab Folk, or Fab7 are accepting proposals!

    2. Get the facts and information.

    A general idea of the total you need to raise for one person to attend the conference is $3250, as shown below. The exact airfare is going to be different depending on from where you are flying. You should make a budget estimate like the one below and be prepared to present it to the sponsors.

    airfare $2000
    hotel $600
    ground transpo $100
    food (other than conf) $300
    conference registration $250

    Conference details are on the website at http://fab7.pe

    3. Write a letter or plan your phone call.

    If you are going to write an email, letter, or speak in person or over the phone, it is important to be ready with your proposal. Sponsors don't have a lot of time so you want to be efficient and succint and clear with your pitch. No matter which format you use it will be helpful to write down everything you are going to say. This will help you stay on track and not forget anything, especially if you get nervous.

    Guidelines for writing a letter (or making a phone call) to a potential sponsor:

  • introduce your local fablab and the conference
  • explain who are you and what your experience has been in the Fab Lab
  • say what you hope to get out of coming to the conference
  • explain how much money you are asking for and what it will be used for
  • explain why should the sponsor help you; how does your coming to the conference help their mission
  • tell them what you are going to promise in return for helping you get to the conference

    If necessary, you can include a letter of support from the Fab Foundation, which serves to confirm the details of the conference. Request this letter from fab7@fabfoundation.org.

    4. If you have gone through all the steps above and still need help, contact fab7@fabfoundation.org

    Be ready to show them all the information and materials you've gathered as described above.

    We really want to see you at the conference! If you have ideas on how Fab Folk can help raise money for attendees, email us!

    5. Write your thank you letter.

    If you have received money or support from any person or organization, you must send them a thank you letter. It is customary to include the specifics of what was contributed.

    You do not have to wait until after the conference to send the letter. Do not forget this important step!