Resource:How to engage alumni and secure funds to support your change efforts on campus

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So you have a project to create change in your community but you don't know how to get your school alumni on board? College alumni can be a big help and support system when it comes to getting your projects up and running. We spoke to UIF alum Rodolfo Romañach who now works with Stellup.com, a startup that connects alumni with their universities' need for crowdfunding. He said that most alumni want to help out their university, especially when they are engaged with their industry. They want to give back to their community by providing resources (not just money) and help the future of their industries. This wiki will explain the various ways that you can engage this want that alumni have with the needs your project will face.  

Introduction

Firstly, your funders should know exactly what your project is. The more specific you can be with statistics, figures, and plans, the better. Your funders want to know that you're gonna do it with or without their help. And if they really want to help you out, consider making them part of your advisory board. You shouldn't be afraid of your funders because this is your plan. If anything, they should be there to help you. "Never have fear," said Romañach, "just do it."  

Budget Research

As you approach your project, event, or club that you are attempting to gain funding for, you should create a budget to understand how much funding is necessary to receive. When starting, it may be tempting to make your budget the amount in which you can afford everything you want for your project or club to make it the best it can be, however, it is better to start small. You should first ask “what is the minimum amount of funds needed to create a viable project?” To reach this conclusion, make a list of the materials that are essentialto the project, event, or club. For example, if you were raising funding for a STEM makerspace, you may deem a 3D printer necessary for a successful, viable makerspace that students will use. The funds for 3D printer are then included in the minimum budget. As you reach your minimum budget, you may continue to raise and allot funds but it is important to be conservative on budget estimates. Start with the essentials for your project, club, or event and then work your way up from there.

When determining the budget, it is important to work with the faculty and administration of your school, the alumni who you will be seeking for funds, and the people that the club, event, or project is intended for to get a better understanding of what is necessary to include.

Identification

Reaching Out

seek out development offices, alumni affairs office, contact them through email, talk to professors

Staying In Touch

email lists, newsletters, social media

Tips for Success

• Always ensure transparency: alumni and funders should always know what their money is being used for
• Remember your main goals: 1) Find out who the alumni and funders are. 2) Engage the alumni and funders and cultivate a relationship with them. 3) Get the alumni and funders involved in the project, club, or event that you are using the funds for. 4) Involve the alumni and funders in fundraising efforts.
• Your main obstacle is time: the fundraising process takes a lot of time, whether your making videos or planning fundraising events, so make sure to schedule activities early and clearly.
• Measure the success of your projects: keep on-campus metrics and data to interest more potential funders and alumni to be involved in your project.
• Start early, gain traction on your project, and collect stats to get more funding to expand the project.

By: Dalton Nelson, Bridget Carey, Maxwell Barnes, and Kelly Rodriguez