1. Ask.
Some people will give you money and some people won't but the most important part is asking. Remember, you are trying to raise money to FREE TIBET. You should be proud, not embarrassed, to give people the opportunity to support such a worthy and important cause.

2. Budget.
Estimate the costs of your fundraising project and add it all up before you begin. Make a budget and stick to it. If you spend more money on your fundraiser than you bring in, it's no longer a fundraiser!

3. Get things for free.
Note the first rule... you have to ask. Ask a restaurant to donate food for your fundraising party. Offer to make a sign to put on a table and tell them you'll thank them publicly-- they'll appreciate the exposure. And this isn't just for putting on a fundraiser... ask stores or individuals for necessary supplies for your chapter. Sometimes people would rather give away stuff than money.

4. Collect the money.
Whether it’s a cover charge for your event or the payment on the pledge someone made, don’t be afraid to collect. Again, see the first rule.

5. Say thank you!
This is VERY important—thank people for their contribution, or for whatever help they give. And even if you have said thank you, send them a thank-you note. If someone is especially generous with their time or money, consider giving them a small token of your appreciation, a book about Tibet or a gift from a Tibetan shop. People will be more willing to help again if they are thanked, and may NOT help in the future if they feel like their contribution was not appreciated.

6. Raise money and awareness at the same time.
Make fundraising part of all of your activities—even if it’s as simple as making sure there is always a donation jar on the table when you are doing outreach. Whether you’re hosting a speaker, holding a vigil, or conducting a teach-in, always let people know how they can help…and one important way is donating money.

7. Be specific.
Tell people what you’re raising money for—travel expenses for members of your chapter to attend a conference, postage for sending petition-postcards, materials for the planned protest of a Chinese official, etc.

8. Make it easy for people to support you.
Don't turn people off by being preachy or aggressive—just be yourself and speak from the heart about why you are working for Tibet, and why you need support. Be positive!

9. Network with other organizations.
Mix with the groups on campus or in your community doing similar work. Organize events to get to meet each other. These people are strong contenders to support you and join your efforts.

10. Ask again. (see rule #1)

Good luck!