The Business of FIRST Presented by: Michael Graham Paul Gianferrara

Overview The Components to Business Success in FIRST & Chairman’s Handbook/By-Laws Structure Business Plan Sponsor Packet Communications & Public Relations Community Outreach Demonstrations Chairman’s – Pulling it all together Q & A

The Components to Success in FIRST & Chairman’s Shift in focus from robot to business 2-5 year process Full team buy in Need to have a major end goal; 2-5 years from now (annual sustainability, see integration of robotics into curriculum, etc.) Need to have annual or bi-annual goal to measure progress

Handbook/By-Laws Gives definitive black & white standards and expectations of students, mentors, & parents Sets the tone for the upcoming seasong Again, measurable metrics! Lays out your structure, who is in leadership and supporting roles, how the team handles obstacles, etc. Team structure drives 75% of your handbook/bylaws Annual updates!

Structure Who is responsible for what Business structure Everyone contributes

Business Plan Major Components: Executive Summary Risk Analysis Planning & Assessment Description of Operations in Build & Off- Season Necessary for team sustainability

Sponsor Packet Explain FIRST to your potential sponsors Talk about your year to year achievements Sponsor Benefits – Why should a company sponsor you? Sponsorship is a 2-way street – not just about what sponsors can do for you

Communications & Public Relations Newsletters Facebook Twitter Website Keep communication with your support all year long! Thank you’s Sponsor of the Week

Community Outreach Community Outreach is a must – all partake Start with smaller projects! Try to find opportunities where you can show off FIRST and your robot As your team shifts to more of a business focus, up the ante!

Demonstrations Need to expose your team to the local community Best source of recruitment of new students Public needs to see what you do and what FIRST represents Many positive outcomes from demonstrations from sponsors to unique opportunities for your team

Chairman’s – Pulling it all together Chairman’s Essay & Video Judges are the investors in your business Why should they buy into your business? Presentation Approach Charisma & Conviction Presence in the room Attire Follow up Questions & Pit Presentations

Thank You! Q & A Session