In all cases, student groups are held to specific standards and requirements whenever fundraising on- or off-campus. Depending on the type of fundraising that your group would like to pursue, there are certain University policies, but also local, state, and federal laws that must be adhered to.

Fundraising | Student Unions & Activities

Registered Student Organizations

Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) can fundraise and seek sponsorship for their group and/or activities. These actions are driven by the student group and the student members of the group. RSOs are inherently independent of the University and cannot claim the benefits of the University such as gifts that are tax-deductible. However, RSOs are able to apply for their own non-profit status with the IRS which can allow them to offer tax-deductible benefits. RSOs can accept donations directly from donors and sponsors and can dictate their own sponsorship/donor benefits (within appropriate legal limits).

Financial Management | Student Unions & Activities

Campus Life Programs

Campus Life Programs (CLPs) can fundraise and seek sponsorships for their group and/or activities. These activities must follow the policies and rules of the University and the University of Minnesota Foundation. CLPs are functionally a part of their sponsoring department/unit. This affiliation offers benefits including tax-deductible gifts for the donor/sponsor and potential support from the CSE External Relations Office (a professional team within the College that is focused on collegiate sponsorship and fundraising). CLPs must adhere to the policies of the University and should be aware of the differences between gift eligible sponsorships and non-gift eligible sponsorships. These differences will determine what sort of sponsorship/donor benefits are allowable and how funds will be processed.

Classifying and Recording Sponsorships for University-Hosted Events/Activities

Financial Management | Student Unions & Activities