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FUNDING POLICY

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Funding Policy Effective Date: 1st January 2025

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DroneSportUK ("we", "us", or "our") is committed to transparency and accountability in how we manage the finances of our association. This Funding Policy outlines the sources of funding for the association, ensuring that all stakeholders are aware of how the association is financed and how funds will be managed to achieve our objectives of promoting and developing drone racing in the UK.

 

1. Sources of Funding
 

DroneSportUK will rely on a combination of funding sources to support the development and growth of drone racing as a legitimate and competitive sport. These sources include, but are not limited to:

 

1.1 Corporate Partners
 

  • Corporate Sponsorships and Partnerships: DroneSportUK aims to secure sponsorships and partnerships with leading companies within the technology, motorsports, gaming, and related industries. These corporate partners may contribute financially to support events, talent development, marketing initiatives, and general operational costs.
     

  • Brand Collaboration: We will seek collaboration opportunities with brands that share our values and have a vested interest in promoting sports, technology, and innovation. This includes seeking funding from companies with a focus on drone technology, consumer electronics, and digital media.

     

1.2 Event Sponsorship

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  • Sponsorship for Events: As a primary source of revenue, DroneSportUK will actively pursue sponsorships for our races and events. This includes securing title sponsors, event-specific sponsors, and media partners who wish to be associated with drone racing at both the national and local levels.
     

  • Commercial Activities: In addition to event sponsorship, we will explore opportunities for merchandise sales, ticket sales, and other commercial activities that can generate additional revenue for the association.

     

1.3 Government Funding
 

  • Potential Funding from Sport England: DroneSportUK is exploring opportunities to apply for government funding, including grants from Sport England, which supports sports organizations in the UK. Sport England provides funding for the development of sports, talent pipelines, and community outreach programs. It is important to note that no government funding has been secured at this stage.
     

  • Other Government or Public Grants: We will also explore funding opportunities from other public sector organisations that support emerging sports, technology initiatives, and educational programs, such as the National Lottery or other governmental bodies that provide financial support for youth engagement, STEM education, and sports development.

     

1.4 Membership Fees
 

  • Membership Fees: DroneSportUK will consider introducing a membership program for individuals and organisations involved in drone racing. Membership fees will be used to fund the operation and growth of the association, including providing access to member benefits such as discounted event entries, exclusive content, and other member-related perks.

     

1.5 Donations and Crowdfunding
 

  • Public Donations: We may engage with the public to seek donations to support the ongoing development of the association and its programs. Donations will be used transparently and will be directed toward initiatives such as event organisation, talent development, and infrastructure building.
     

  • Crowdfunding Campaigns: On occasion, DroneSportUK may launch crowdfunding campaigns to raise specific funds for a designated purpose, such as hosting a major event or providing scholarships to talented young pilots.

     

2. Management and Allocation of Funds
 

DroneSportUK will ensure that all funds raised through corporate partnerships, sponsorships, government grants, and other sources will be allocated efficiently and transparently to achieve the association’s goals. We commit to the following:
 

  • Financial Transparency: We will provide regular updates to our stakeholders on the use of funds, ensuring that all financial operations are transparent and accountable. Annual financial statements will be available to the public upon request.
     

  • Responsible Financial Management: We will manage funds prudently, ensuring that they are used to further the mission of DroneSportUK, particularly in areas such as:
     

    • Event organisation (race logistics, venue costs, marketing)

    • Talent development (training programs, bursaries for young pilots)

    • Infrastructure development (website, membership systems, event technologies)

    • Outreach and education (community engagement, STEM initiatives)
       

  • Grant Reporting: For any government funding or grants received, DroneSportUK will adhere to the reporting requirements set by the granting bodies, including Sport England and other government agencies. This will include providing detailed reports on how funds are spent and the outcomes achieved.

     

3. Fundraising Goals and Strategy
 

As of the effective date of this policy, no government funding has been secured, and DroneSportUK is in the process of seeking corporate sponsors, partners, and other forms of financial support. Our fundraising goals include:
 

  • Securing long-term corporate sponsors to support our events and activities.

  • Building a sustainable membership base to contribute to the ongoing operational costs of the association.

  • Applying for government grants to ensure that we can develop a formal infrastructure for the sport and provide opportunities for talented pilots.

  • Engaging with the public through donation and crowdfunding campaigns to support key initiatives.

     

4. Sponsorship and Funding Ethics
 

DroneSportUK is committed to maintaining high ethical standards when securing funding and sponsorships. We will ensure that all partners and sponsors share our values and do not conflict with our mission to promote a fair, inclusive, and exciting sport.
 

  • Ethical Sponsorship: We will avoid partnerships with organisations whose practices or products do not align with our values or the well-being of our community.
     

  • No Influence on Event Integrity: Sponsors and partners will not be permitted to influence the outcome of events or the conduct of races. DroneSportUK will maintain independence and integrity in all sporting matters.

     

5. Future Funding and Development
 

DroneSportUK is focused on building a long-term, self-sustaining organisation that is able to fund its own activities and growth. As the association matures, we will focus on:
 

  • Diversifying Revenue Streams: Expanding our revenue sources through additional sponsorships, partnerships, and services.
     

  • Developing Community-Focused Programs: Using funds to support grassroots programs, youth engagement, and STEM initiatives to foster the next generation of drone racing enthusiasts.
     

  • Expanding National and International Reach: Leveraging sponsorships and partnerships to bring drone racing to a wider audience, including potential opportunities for international competitions and collaborations.

     

6. Contact Us
 

If you have any questions regarding this Funding Policy or would like to discuss potential sponsorship or partnership opportunities with DroneSportUK, please contact us:

 

DroneSportUKEmail: events@dronesportuk.com

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