THINK BIG Introduction to Fundraising is a 12 week online learning mentoring program designed to develop foundational skills in community broadcasting income - grants, sponsorship, fundraising, events, and marketing.

The second cohort of the year finished in June with a pitch session to share their projects.

Ideas included: reviving a station subscriber-thon for the first time in six years, designing a whole new sponsorship structure, developing a regional network of stations to share resources, a Charity Golf Day Fundraiser in partnership with station sponsors, and a local live music event.

Over the 12 weeks, participants completed learning activities such as reviewing media kits, practicing a grant application, completing an event risk assessment, and creating a project timeline for a fundraising campaign. They worked in small groups with the guidance of experienced industry mentors.

On completing the program, participants reported increased confidence in pitching sponsorship proposals, powerpoint presentations, grant writing, and developing a media kit that reflects the organisation’s purpose and values. 

Overall, participants valued the experience and advice of industry mentors:

“I valued completing projects with regular mentoring that had practical relevance to my role a the station”

“Excellent program - thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and experiences”

The organisations involved: 

• National Indigenous Radio Service
• 1VFM Valley FM Canberra
• 2SWR Triple 9 Sydney
• 2MTM Coonamble
• 3PLS Geelong
• 3PFM Phoenix FM Bendigo
• 4DDB 102.7 Toowoomba
• 5EBI Adelaide
• 5PBA Salisbury 
• 6GME Goolarri Radio Broome
• Collie Community Radio WA

If you would like to be notified for the next course, sign up to our bulletin.