Funding/Sponsorship

[MadCow2357]

As you know, Build Events can be particularly expensive. Especially Battery Buggy, or literally any other vehicle event. I've been tallying up my purchases this year, and well... let's just say that it's pretty darn high. I'm looking into making my own wheels - I know stupid me, since literally every expert has been warning me not to - but I have my reasons. Anyways, the cost of a pint of the material is $28. Ain't gonna work, I'm already way over budget.

I've been thinking of getting sponsors for a while, but not really sure how - I've contemplated going to a store like Home Depot or pigeon's Sporting Goods and showing my existing buggy to them, then asking for discounts or free parts in return for a "sponsor sticker" on the buggy. My coaches and team mates have laughed when I proposed this - but I'm seriously considering doing this. Also, how would you ask for a discount to a product online? Like in the case of certain materials, the companies don't post their prices - you need to contact them separately, which implies they might only take bulk order. Any people have experience in sponsorships?

I'd also appreciate some ideas on how to get funding in general.

[Crimesolver]

a) why are you getting new wheels didn't you do battery buggy last year?
b) In my opinion, I think online companies are much more nicer about giving discounts and stuff. You could probably email them about your device and ask them for a discount on their products in return of telling everyone about their company. Big bois like Home Depot will probably not listen to a middle schooler trying to get materials for a "car" that they are building at school unless some admin from your school backs you up. Another thing you could try is like fundraising?? Sell brownies or rip-off girl scout cookies or something in that field of thought.
I literally don't have any experience in funding deficiencies because I basically didn't build the buggy and our coach is pretty generous with supplies, but hopefully this input can help you get that wheel stuff!

[DatSciolyBoi]

Well I do ELG (The expenses are pretty high as well) and I have spent a lot of dough on it. When it came down to it, the best option is to ask your head coach for a reimbursement, and if that's not possible, ask for a partial reimbursement. Always ask the people on your team who used to do the event, they usually have spare parts lying around the house somewhere. I doubt getting a store to sponsor your buggy is a reliable way to get funded, as they might cut it off if you do poorly. As Crimesolver said, consider selling small items to your classmates. These are just the options that worked for me, I don't know about your school.
Good Luck!

[Things2do]

Just outta curiosity, why would you make your own wheels?

I agree with hitting up people who used to do that event or its equivalent for materials.

Maybe you could try a local hardware store, they'd probably be more likely do a sponsorship thingie than a national chain, although without spectators or televised competitions, the advertisement wouldn't be worth much... Maybe if you were to offer to put up bumper stickers on team members' cars {real cars...} or something, and make sure they know it's a school project that's helpful to your future et cetera...

[MadCow2357]

Just outta curiosity, why would you make your own wheels?

I agree with hitting up people who used to do that event or its equivalent for materials.

Maybe you could try a local hardware store, they'd probably be more likely do a sponsorship thingie than a national chain, although without spectators or televised competitions, the advertisement wouldn't be worth much... Maybe if you were to offer to put up bumper stickers on team members' cars {real cars...} or something, and make sure they know it's a school project that's helpful to your future et cetera...

The ones I had last year are too thick, and the ones I have right now are too small. Good point. I may be able to ask my local ace hardware since they also nationally sponsor scio.