Although frequently overlooked, the necessary funding may be right in your own neighborhood or community. Often local businesses donate to local projects as a way to pay back to the community for their support. Additionally, businesses or corporations will want to know how the project can benefit them. Sometimes it may be as simple as an acknowledgment in the form of a plaque signifying where the funding came from, or through a press release recognizing their contribution.

Local bank branches also frequently have designated funds at the discretion of the bank manager to give back to the community. The same quid pro quo can apply here by offering positive promotions for them in exchange for their donations. A little recognition can go a long way.

Another way of securing external funds from local sources is to form partnerships with local organizations, schools, etc. Local civic clubs such as Kiwanis International, Lion's Club, Rotary International, The Association of Junior Leagues, etc. often look for philanthropic causes. Contact information for these clubs can be found in the resources section on the last page of this monograph.