NASA Grant reviewers join us for a question-by-questionguide to completing and submitting a NASA FRC Rookie Grant.

Grant Application:https://robotics.nasa.gov/

This conversation covers essential aspects ofparticipating in the FIRST Robotics Competition and applying for the NASA Rookie team grant, focusing on NASA sponsorship, the importance of data collection, navigating awards, grant requirements, team structure, and community support. It emphasizes the significance of budgeting, marketing, and setting measurable goals for the robotics season, while also highlighting the unique contributions teams can make to their communities.

Chapters

00:00 NASA Rookie Grant Cram - Where to begin andQuestion 1

15:26 Question 2

22:50 Question 3

24:56 Question 4

26:21 Question 5

28:04 Question 6

31:41 Question 7 - final question

Summary

In this episode of FRC Outside the Bot, Patrick Kirby shares insights on effective fundraising strategies for robotics teams. Through role play, he emphasizes the importance of authentic communication and building connections with potential sponsors. The conversation highlights the unique position of students in fundraising, encouraging them to embrace their creativity and the curiosity they can spark in others. Kirby also discusses the need for a clear roadmap to guide supporters in contributing to their community, ultimately empowering students to succeed in their fundraising efforts.

Takeaways

• Authenticity is key in fundraising calls.
• Finding the right person to talk to is crucial.
• People are generally interested in supporting unique initiatives.
• Building robots sparks curiosity and interest in others.
• Fundraising is easier than it seems when you have a clear goal.
• Students should embrace their unique position in fundraising.
• A roadmap helps potential supporters understand how to help.
• Effective communication can lead to successful sponsorships.
• The importance of follow-up and continued engagement with supporters.
• Fundraising can be done without elaborate scripts or events.

Helpful Links:

• Do Good Better: https://www.dogoodbetterconsulting.com/
• More about FIRST Robotics Competition in Louisiana and Mississippi: www.frcla-ms.org
• More about FIRST: www.firstinspires.org
• Fundraise Like a 5th Grader on Amazon https://a.co/d/6kdckwy

In this episode, the hosts discuss effective fundraising strategies for robotics teams, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, relationship building, and clear communication with potential donors. They explore how to inspire donations through personal connections and the power of asking for support in a way that resonates with the audience. The conversation highlights the significance of gratitude and regular updates to maintain donor relationships, as well as the effectiveness of one-on-one asks over traditional fundraising events.

Takeaways

• The way you ask for donations matters; frame it positively.
• Storytelling can inspire donations; share your team's journey.
• Focus on building relationships with potential donors.
• Regular updates to sponsors foster stronger connections.
• Gratitude is essential; always thank your supporters.
• One-on-one asks are more effective than mass fundraising events.
• Involve students in fundraising efforts for better engagement.
• Transparency about needs can encourage support.
• Find common interests with potential donors to connect better.
• Practice makes perfect; prepare students for fundraising conversations.

• Helpful Links:

  • Do Good Better: https://www.dogoodbetterconsulting.com/
  • More about FIRST Robotics Competition in Louisiana and Mississippi: www.frcla-ms.org
  • More about FIRST: www.firstinspires.org
  • Fundraise Like a 5th Grader on Amazon https://a.co/d/6kdckwy

  
  

In this conversation, Patrick Kirby, the founder of Do GoodBetter, shares valuable insights on effective fundraising strategies for robotics teams. He emphasizes the importance of standing out to potential sponsors, engaging team members in the fundraising process, and buildingmeaningful partnerships with local businesses. The discussion also covers navigating grants, understanding the difference between grants and sponsorships, and crafting compelling asks. Patrick highlights the significanceof storytelling, targeting the right audience, and maintaining relationships with sponsors to ensure ongoing support. The conversation concludes with practical fundraising techniques and the power of one-on-one asks.

Takeaways

• Ask potential sponsors about their best sponsorshipexperiences.
• Engage team members, especially students, in fundraising efforts.
• Focus on building partnerships rather than just seekingmoney.
• Local businesses are often more accessible for sponsorships than large corporations.
• Less than 10% of all giving comes from corporate sources; focus on individuals.
• Chasing grants can be time-consuming; prioritize personal connections.
• Craft your ask to be about reaching a goal, not just asking for money.

• People are more likely to give when they feel a personal connection.

• Maintain relationships with sponsors through regular updates and gratitude.
• Involve students in fundraising conversations to make them more relatable.

Helpful Links:

• Do Good Better: https://www.dogoodbetterconsulting.com/
• More about FIRST Robotics Competition in Louisiana and Mississippi: www.frcla-ms.org
• More about FIRST: www.firstinspires.org
• Fundraise Like a 5th Grader on Amazon https://a.co/d/6kdckwy