Finances
Student Organizations are expected to be financially self-sustaining including generating and spending funds, establishing fiscal policies and procedures, as well as using financial resources in ethical ways that are aligned with the purpose and goals of the organization, and benefit the organization as a whole.
The following resources are related to financial management, funding, and fundraising.
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Financial Management
General Financial Management
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Financial Education: The Student Wellness Center offers a variety of opportunities to understand finances, including online modules, 1:1 coaching, presentations, and other resources. They can also talk to you about managing your budget.
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How to Write a Check: Learn the proper way to fill out a check.
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Sample Budget: Use this template to manage your org's budget.
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Vendor Set-Up Form: Complete this form before receiving CSA Funds
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Vendor Set-Up Form Instructions: Step-by-step walk through of how to fill out the Vendor Set-Up Form
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Student Organization Success Coaches: 1:1 support with funding questions, applications, usage, and audits.
Tax Information
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EIN: Employer Identification Number - An EIN can be obtained from the IRS by calling 1-800-829-4933 or by applying online
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Non-Profit Status: Student organizations can apply to be considered a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization (501c3). These organizations may be subject to additional restrictions per the IRS rules and regulations.
Funding
Funding Opportunities
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Coca-Cola Beverage Donation Program: Free Coca-Cola beverages may be donated to groups that qualify.
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Collaborative Programming Grant: Offered by the Center for Belonging and Social Change.
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Student Life Dining Services Donation Request
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Provides meals, snacks, beverages, and door prizes for free.
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Requests accepted on rolling basis.
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Due at least 30 days before an event.
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Pro Tip: Have an idea of the quantities of items you’d like to receive to write a strong request application.
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More info: go.osu.edu/DiningDonation
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CSA Funding
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Operating Funds: Can be used for expenses that help maintain your organization through general operations.
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Tutorial Video: How to Apply for Operating Funds
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Programming Funds: Can be used to fund on-campus programs open to all students or off-campus service projects
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Tutorial Video: How to Apply for Programming Funds
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Student Organization Guidelines: Guidelines on funding expenditures and what is and is not allowed to be purchased with CSA Funding
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USG Funding Request Form: Apply for supplemental funding support from the Undergraduate Student Government.
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Signature Event Funding
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If you host an annual event that you think has the potential to attract at least 1,000 students, start planning your application.
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Applications are accepted once every three years during the Student Activity Fee Review. Next applications open and review will occur in Summer 2025.
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Accepted programs are guaranteed funding for the following three years.
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Pro Tip: Partner with other organizations and departments to maximize your audience and resources.
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More info: go.osu.edu/SignatureEvents
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Fundraising
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Buckeye Funder: Tap into Ohio State's vast donor network by applying to host your fundraiser through this crowdfunding platform. Registered student organizations are eligible to utilize this resource.
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Fundraiser.osu.edu: Create a page for your fundraiser and start fundraising! Check out the Fundraising Tips page as well.
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Fundraising Resources and Recommendations: Learn best-practices for fundraising and some fundraising ideas, both general and specific to Ohio State.
Looking for more?
- Visit the Operations page for resources related to leadership transitions, governance, hosting events, communication, and general operations
- Visit the Relationships page for resources related to advisors, community outreach, partnerships, and collaboration.
- Visit the Membership page for resources related to recruitment, retention, wellness, leadership, and development