Grants and Donations for a Summer Computer Camp?

Camp CAEN asks: "I work for a computer camp at the local university and I was wondering: how one goes about getting grants? We currently are funded by attendees but I thought it would be ideal to offer scholarships or assistance to those in need. Students who come to camp are middle school and high school students, we teach programming (C++, Java, DirectX), web technologies (HTML, PHP, MySQL), and other technology related topics (system administration, digital video production). The camp lasts two weeks and it can be quite pricey. I know there are plenty of people who would like to attend but can't afford it. Does anyone know of state (in Michigan) or Federal programs that give out money for technology instruction? Or any companies willing to donate equipment/software/books to our camp? Finally, are there any people in education or social work who have done grant writing before and have any good resources (either online or paper)? Anyone else have good ideas or suggestions? Thanks!"

Comments

Local knowledge will help you better than /.

[EnlightenmentFan]

There are people who really know how to do this--the university you're connected to will have a "development office" of people who work full-time raising money. Talk to them first because 1) they know how to do it, 2) you will need to coordinate with them so you don't step on each others' toes, and 3) you might be able to convince them that a camp-scholarship program will give them good publicity too.

My amateur experience: many little local groups (Rotary or whatever) will give you $100 for a good cause if you ask them nicely and thank them publicly--more if you get somebody who is in the group to ask them for you. We had a local women's college club that liked to interview high school seniors each year and give a $500 scholarship to the most creative and entrepreneurial. HTH--Good luck!