jattyro

events

I am building a new chess center (Albany Chess Center). We want to run tournaments and community programs. Running events costs real money: venue, equipment, arbiters, insurance, trophies, printing. I do not want to rely only on entry fees. When entry fees are high, only a few people can participate. I want kids, new players, and adults to have access without cost being a barrier.

My question to this community is simple:

What is the best, most transparent way to raise funds for a project like this?

Here are some ideas I am considering:

1. Publish the full budget

List the line by line costs: venue, arbiters, prizes, printing, etc.

2. Accept support publicly (Lightning, Stripe, or similar)

All contributions go to the budget and nothing else.

3. Post results after the event
Share photos, final standings, receipts, and a short summary of money in and money out.

I am not trying to ask for donations in this post. I am interested in the process.

For anyone who has funded a community project here:

Do you publish the full budget first and then accept support?

Or do you collect initial support and post the budget later?

Is it better to set up a nonprofit sponsor before taking any money?

I am here to learn from people who have done public and transparent funding.

Thanks.
