[Chapter-delegates] Feedback Requested: ISOC Project Funding turn out

[Patrick Vande Walle]

Sivasubramanian Muthusamy wrote, On 6/11/08 20:11:

> "/ISOC chapters in general, are expected to raise funds from Industry
> and do a number of activities, and are not really expected to approach
> for government funding like other NGOs. It will not go well with ISOC
> also/."

Hi,

I have a similar story. Some years ago, while approaching the local
branch of a well known router and network equipment vendor for
sponsorship, I was answered that they already sponsored ISOC HQ and they
saw no need to contribute twice to the same organization.
Seems like there is a some work ahead for our communications department
to address these misunderstandings.

> Also, Louise Houle's Questions, "Is there a need for opening such a
> program with a limited period of time to apply ? Why isn't it just
> available ? " are quite valid. Why don't we make Chapter Funding an
> on-going process?

Speaking as a former member of the projects committee, I can say this:
The rationale behind the fact that we have 2 rounds of applications per
year is quite simple. The budget is limited. If it was an ongoing
process, this would mean "first come, first served" and we may end up
with the whole budget being used long before the end of the year.

Until recently, we received more proposals than there was money
available to cover them all. So, a selection process was needed, and the
project committee convened twice a year. Obviously, with an ongoing
process, comparing proposals is not possible.


Best regards,

Patrick Vande Walle