How can local chapters raise funds?

There are several ways for your chapter to make money:

Membership fees: Don’t expect someone else to give your chapter money if your own members don’t think the chapter is worthy of their support. Some chapters survive solely on membership fees. 

Annual meeting and symposium: For most chapters, this is the only member service for which it is practical to charge money beyond the membership fee. Registration fees not only pay for the meeting, but are the main source of revenue for some SCB chapters. The key is having a consistently high-quality program, including events designed to build community, so that people come back year after year.

Fund-raising events: Raffles, rummage sales, t-shirt sales, and banquets can also serve as social events for the members. Most chapters engage in these activities only in conjunction with their annual meeting.

Competitive Grants: For North America the best directory is Environmental Grantmaking Foundations, updated in odd-numbered years (print or CD, ~$120, http://www.environmentalgrants.com/). Given the cost, you may prefer to borrow a copy from a local NGO. Many of the 1000 foundations listed here do not have web sites; the directory explains the funder’s mission and lists recent grants and grant sizes. We welcome suggestions for similar directories for other regions of the globe.  Some paramount rules: (a) Apply only to those foundations whose statements indicate they are a good match – you will NOT fool a funder by putting a spin on who you are! (b) Before you apply, telephone a program officer at the foundation, honestly explain your needs, and ask if it is worthwhile to apply. Program officers are friendly people who will give you frank advice to save your time and theirs. (c) Follow their application instructions to the letter!

Informal Local Grants: Approach local membership-based environmental groups, sporting good stores, manufacturers of outdoor equipment, or local eco-tourism industries, and ask them for support. In addition to money, they may provide food or raffle prizes for your annual symposium.