How to Ask for Donations...

[att159]

My science fair project this year is turning out to be pretty costly, so I've been asking various bioscience companies for donations. One offered a 20% discount on the selected product, and the other donated the product. All the others said no.
This is what I've been saying in my emails:
Hello,
My name is _____ and I am in the 8th grade. I am doing a science fair project about Alzheimer's disease -the effect of _____ on ______ production, and the inhibitory effects of various compounds. I am planning to use __________ (cat ______)from your company. However, as a student, due to the cost of other materials and lab space for my science project, I am finding it difficult to pay for everything by myself. If possible, would you be able to provide me with a discount on _________ or possibly a donation?

I would very much appreciate any help you are able to give me.
Thank you so much,
_____

Any suggestions for a better email? What would be more effective?

Thanks!!!

[amyC]

Hi - This question is a bit outside of the advice we offer at Ask an Expert. It sounds like you're taking a very proactive approach to helping fund your project and research, and that's great. I hope that some of the letters come through.

If you have questions as you are working on the project, please let us know.

Good luck!

Amy
Science Buddies

[deleted-42343]

We have a guide about finding a mentor, which is in some ways similar to what you are trying to do. You might read the following page and see if any of our tips apply to what you are doing:

https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... tors.shtml

I think the most important part on that page is the "funnel." Keep in mind that you are not going to get many "yes" answers. Good luck!

[donnahardy2]

Hi,

You have discovered that scientific supplies are expensive. Here's another idea that might help. Another approach that you can make is to look up the toll free number of the company that sells the product you need to use. Then call and ask for the technical support department and ask the representative if they would be willing to send you a small sample of whatever you need. If you do get a sample, be sure to acknowledge the donation when you write up your project.

Donna Hardy

[deleted-36600]

Hi!

I have a friend who was also struggling with the cost of his science project this year. He is very proactive as you seem to be. He is getting help from a local community college.
I would try to contact the science departments at the colleges in your city.
Most community colleges are very open to helping students with their projects by providing supplies as well as knowledge and help from professors.

Hope this helps!