AuthorShreya Bhatia, State Treasurer Did you qualify for the State Leadership Conference or the National Leadership Conference? Are you applying for college? Do you want to attend an academic event that you do not have the funds for? Scholarships can be a game-changer, and it’s not hard to ask businesses or other institutions to help fund your academic goals. Large and small businesses often offer scholarships to support students like you. Here are a few ways to ask businesses for scholarships. Identify Potential Businesses: Start by researching local businesses or those in your field of interest. Some large corporations have special funds allocated to donating to students, while others are looking for opportunities to donate to local causes. Look for companies with a history of community involvement or corporate social responsibility programs. Research small and large companies to see your options, and gather a list of 5-10 to reach out to. Craft a Compelling Pitch: Create an email template that introduces who you are: your achievements, goals, and why you deserve their support. Explain how their scholarship will make a meaningful impact on your education and future career. When drafting this template, make it customization to each business. Address them by name and hand-pick a few specific qualities about each company that show your interest in that specific company. For example, explain how their values align with your aspirations or their community involvement aligns with your future career path or interests. Highlight Mutual Benefits: In your email template, emphasize how their scholarship can benefit the business. Depending on the type of scholarship, some companies can get a tax exemption for their involvement. Research different volunteering clauses- and if your scholarship meets the requirements- gather the relevant information on your FBLA chapter (or whatever cause you’re gathering the money for) for tax exemptions. Ensure that you get an adult to review your research and tax information (it would also be a good idea to have them CC’d on the emails going forward). Similarly, mention how your success can reflect positively on the business’ brand, potentially through media coverage or community recognition of some sort. Throughout your emails, make sure you maintain professionalism in your communication. Write a well-structured email or letter, proofread it carefully, and use proper etiquette. Follow Up: If you don't receive a response within a reasonable timeframe, follow up politely. Persistence can show your dedication and commitment. However, finding more businesses to contact would be a good idea if two or more weeks pass. Express Gratitude: Always thank businesses for considering your request, whether they provide the scholarship or not. A courteous attitude can leave a lasting impression. Remember, approaching businesses for scholarships requires confidence, persistence, and professionalism. With dedication and the right approach, you may find valuable financial support to help you achieve your educational dreams. Good luck! Comments are closed.
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