Need advice on obtaining funds

[redshift1]

My local astronomy club has been given an awesome opportunity to use a planetarium at a local high school. We are currently approaching the school board for funds to upgrade and operate this facility for students and the local community. The facility is in excellent shape except for the projectors and computer software. They are in need of an upgrade. We need approximately 2500.00 per year to open the planetarium. Does anyone have information on grants that we can apply for? The school corporation has closed the doors of the planetarium because of budget constraints. It has been closed for the past seven years. Any advice is greatly appreciated. I didn't know if this was the appropriate place to post this this thread so forgive me if it's in the wrong place.

 

[annodomini2]

Which country you are in would be helpful <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> </div>

 

[ldyaidan]

You can also try doing fundraisers, like a carnival, or multifamily garage sale. This will also help get the community involved, and make them aware of your group. <br /><br />Rae

 

[redshift1]

United States

 

[summoner]

I would contact the nearest university that has an astronomy dept. They'd be able to point you in the right direction and may even donate a bit to your cause. <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> <br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width:271px;background-color:#FFF;border:1pxsolid#999"><tr><td colspan="2"><div style="height:35px"><img src="http://banners.wunderground.com/weathersticker/htmlSticker1/language/www/US/MT/Three_Forks.gif" alt="" height="35" width="271" style="border:0px" /></div>

 

[propforce]

$2,500 per year is not that much money. You can<br /><br />1) Charge club members for a "membership due"<br /><br />2) Having an annual raffle or charity event to raise fund<br /><br />3) Contact national astronomy societies for financial support<br /><br />4) Contact local and/or national individuals, companies & fundations for support and offer to name the planetarium after that highest donor, e.g., Bill & Melinda Gate planetarium, etc. <br /><br />Make sure you register your astronomy club as a "non profit organization" for donation's tax purpose so they can write it off. <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> </div>