Funding an event
Applying for funding
While student organizers are in the process of registering an event and identifying potential locations, it is also recommended that the students begin the funding process. Once a group has a fairly detailed budget for the proposed event, they should approach funding sources to request financial support. The most common financial supporter of student organization events is the dean’s office and the USG Projects Board. However, a number of funding sources may be available depending on the scope of your event and the co-sponsorships you have established. Please review the following options for the most common sources of student group funding:
The first place to go to apply for funding is the Undergraduate Student Government (USG) Projects Board. The Projects Board is the funding arm of the USG and gives out the majority of funds to student organization events. The Projects Board also distributes funds on behalf of ODUS, the Woodrow Wilson School Fund, Publications Fund and Venture Fund, and works jointly with the Pace Center to fund events focused on civic engagement. The Projects Board meets every Thursday when classes are in session at 4:30pm in Frist 204.
The University has set aside funds that are intended to support new initiatives that positively contribute to the quality of life at the University. These events must be social alternatives that take place on a Thursday, Friday, or Saturday night from 10pm to 2am or other historically high drinking times on campus. The committee meets approximately three times a semester to review grant proposals.
All recognized undergraduate and graduate student organizations, University departments and special interest centers are eligible to request cosponsorship for programs within the Frist Campus Center. A group must convey how the event will help fulfill Frist Campus Center’s mission to create an inviting, inclusive community.
Student organizations may apply for funding to attend conferences off-campus. Students will need to make an appointment with the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Students for consideration of these funds. Students should prepare a detailed budget that delineates all costs relating to the conference and identifies the potential attendees. Student groups should note that the funding amounts for this type of travel are limited. Preference is given to groups who can make a persuasive argument as to how attending this conference will benefit the greater campus community.
Academic Departments
Students organizations may contact academic departments for funding for events. Students should prepare detailed budgets that can be given to each academic department manager. Students working with the department manager should provide them with their project grant number so that funds can be properly credited to the student organization.
Here is an example of a funding request letter.doc to an academic department, courtesy of Akwaaba. You can also check out this detailed sample budget.doc from the Korean American Students Association.