Days 1–7
Set the target
Write the amount, purpose, deadline, minimum viable outcome and consequence if not funded.
Fundraising plan
The 90-day club fundraising system.
A club needs a pipeline, not a panic. Use this as the operating rhythm for a committee, subcommittee or fundraising lead.
Days 8–21
Build evidence
Collect quotes, bank proof, photos, member numbers, community reach, legal status and outcome logic.
Days 22–50
Sell sponsors
Approach local businesses with packaged value. Use warm intros first, then direct outreach.
Days 30–90
Lodge grants
Match funders to project type, submit complete applications and track decisions/acquittals.
Funding mix
Do not make one funding source carry the club.
| Lane | Best use | Weakness | Operating rule |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grants | Equipment, programmes, facilities, community outcomes. | Slow and uncertain. | Keep a rolling 6-month pipeline. |
| Sponsorship | Operational support, uniforms, events, local business relationships. | Fails if benefits are vague. | Sell packaged value, not charity. |
| Events | Member engagement, community visibility, unrestricted cash. | Volunteer-heavy and easy to overestimate. | Run only with a written profit model. |
| Donations | Community campaigns, alumni/whānau support, project appeals. | Tax benefits depend on donee status. | Be clear whether receipts are tax-credit eligible. |
| Membership / merch | Reliable recurring contribution from people already connected. | Can create affordability issues. | Offer hardship support or tiering. |
Evidence pack
Build this once. Reuse it everywhere.
- Club legal name, NZBN or Incorporated Society number if applicable.
- Bank account verification and treasurer contact.
- Current committee list and conflict-of-interest process.
- Project budget with GST treatment noted.
- Two quotes for material purchases where possible.
- Photos of current need or facility/equipment condition.
- Member numbers, age groups, participation statistics and community reach.
- Safeguarding, health and safety, privacy and event risk notes.
- Post-funding reporting plan: photos, receipts, outcome measures.
Meeting cadence
One short meeting each fortnight.
Pipeline
Which funders or sponsors moved status since last meeting?
Evidence
What missing document, quote or approval blocks the next application?
Cash
What has been banked, committed, declined or still at risk?