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Fundraise for IU

Fundraise for IU

Fundraising for IU is a great way to make a lasting impact on the university you love. And there are a variety of ways to do it, from reaching out to your personal network to connecting with an alumni chapter to host an event. 

Put your passion to work: fundraising as an individual

What is it about IU you love? Is there an academic department you believe in? A school you support every time you get a chance? A scholarship program that helped you get where you are now? Whatever it is, you can further your impact by fundraising within your personal network.

It's easy to get started. Use our step-by-step guide and you'll be on your way to raising money for your favorite IU cause in no time.

Explore the volunteer fundraising guide

Putting your community to work: fundraising as an IU alumni chapter or group

As part of an IUAA chapter, you can come together with your peers to fundraise for your own scholarship fund or another IU program your group supports.  And as to how you do it? You're limited only by your imagination.

General fundraising tips

  • Build a balanced budget—make sure that your revenue outweighs your costs!
  • Have a “Give Now” button on your group’s web page and/or email messages.
  • Take advantage of special fundraising opportunities that IUAA offers (e.g. IU Day Crowdfunding opportunities). 

Fundraising for a chapter scholarship

Grow your chapter’s scholarship fund by running a scholarship fundraising campaign.

Hosting a fundraising event

Our alumni communities host a variety of events to benefit fundraising initiatives. Events like golf outings, scavenger hunts, lunches/dinners, and community service projects are fun ways to build community and friendships while raising funds for a worthy cause.

Raise money for your event with a sponsorship

Sponsorships can be a great way to raise the profile of your event and raise money for your chosen program faster. Before soliciting any business for donations and/or sponsorships, be sure to view the IUAA Sponsorship Policy.

Feel free to use and update the Sponsor Solicitation Sample Letter and the Sponsorship Agreement Form Sample. Don’t forget that all letters and forms must be reviewed and approved by the IU Foundation before sending. Please work with your IUAA liaison closely on this process.

Tips for finding a sponsorship:
  • Mine your personal networks or LinkedIn for established connections or relationships with local businesses.
  • Consider existing IUAA sponsor partnerships. The IUAA has established partnerships with several national sponsors. Contact your liaison to learn more about potential sponsorship conflicts and/or opportunities to capitalize on these existing relationships.
  • Some businesses operate on a calendar year instead of a July 1 to June 30 fiscal year. Know this information so you can ask for support early in their FY and/or during their budgeting cycle. Be sure to contact a business with plenty of lead time before the event. Last minute requests may not be able to be fulfilled.
  • Be prepared to tell the business what it will get in return for a donation (i.e.: free advertising on event materials, complimentary seats/table at the banquet, recognition before and during the event, etc.).
  • Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Flexibility and creativity can often lead to great partnerships. Just be sure to follow and comply with the IUAA Sponsorship Policy.

Once your event is over, make sure to thank your donors and sponsors. Check out our Alumni Volunteer Guide for ideas, tips, and tricks for engaging and thanking  the people who made your event great.