Get Money
Money is an important aspect of event planning that must be considered. Here are some resources, suggestions, off-campus fundraising opportunities, and more that may provide useful as you begin to plan.
Important Tips
- Lead-time is important. Large events require a minimum of 3-4 month lead-time, if not more.
- ASSU funding is quickest and easiest - start here.
- Exhaust all on-campus options before considering off-campus ones.
- A thorough and detailed budget will make your job easier. Need help? See an OSE Intern for assistance.
- The University cannot confirm your requested space, approve your event or permit you to make contractual agreements without most of the funding in your account.
- Follow-up, follow-up, and follow-up on your requests. Check your progress regularly, especially when requesting funds from campus departments. Give all funders your deadline when you make your request.
- Read your ASSU account statement regularly to make sure the committed funds have been transferred. If not, follow-up.
- Write prompt funder thank yous. Prompt and grateful feedback can turn a one-time funding source into a regular one.
Build a Budget
Develop a good, detailed budget early to save time and avoid headaches. To minimize expenses and maximize revenue:
- Keep track of the relationship between income and expenses.
- Manage ticket prices.
- Get tech and production cost estimates (below) and ask for help in reducing costs.
- See Events Services to get cost estimates.
Free or Affordable Resources
Need a button maker, video camera, or some flyers, but don’t have a lot of money? We've created a table to share with our communities of places on campus to get these and other items free or at low cost.
On-Campus Funding Sources
Explore primary, secondary and tertiary sources of funding. Additionally, find information about the Solidarity Fund and the Stanford Fund Partnership Program.
Off-Campus Fundraising Guidelines
University policy governs all off-campus fundraising activities. Student organizations must receive prior university approval prior to soliciting corporations. Approval must be requested in Spring Quarter to fundraise for the next academic year. See the corporate fundraising timeline and steps for more information.
What Can You Fund?
All Stanford student organizations must follow federal, state and local laws as well as University and ASSU policies. All activities must take into consideration the university's non-profit status and educational mission. Student organization expenses should always be reasonable and appropriate for a voluntary student organization stewarding ASSU and university funds.
