Finding funds to support implementation and maintenance of AED (automated external defibrillation) programs in the community is easier than many people realize. The first step is to estimate projected program costs. Annual costs can include the following:

Devices (about $1,000-3,000 per unit; remember to divide initial cost by the projected life of the device, usually five years)

• Peripheral equipment costs (about $75 per device)
• Maintenance (about $100 per device)
• Insurance (variable)
• Training costs (variable: includes personnel and equipment)
• Program management costs (variable)
• Event documentation costs (variable)
• Quality assurance tools (variable)
• Community-wide CPR training (variable)

The next step is to determine whether costs can be funded directly through community or agency budgets. This is the simplest, most direct approach and it may be all you will need to do. For example, a city council that has been educated about the serious public health problem of sudden cardiac arrest and the need for prompt universal access to defibrillation may simply vote to include AED program implementation costs in the next budget cycle.

If AED program costs cannot be funded directly, it is necessary to explore alternative funding sources, such as:

• Local corporations and industry
• Local civic organizations
• Private foundations
• Public charities
• Government grants
• Traditional fund-raisers

Regardless of the funding option(s) you pursue, consider the following tips:

• Investigate funding prospects thoroughly. Many funding opportunities go untapped each year because no one has taken the initiative to ask.
• Do not project an image of being a needy organization, but instead emphasize that you are proposing a partnership between your organization, other collaborating organizations and the contributor (and perhaps other contributors) designed to benefit the community as a whole.
• Recognize that contributors may be motivated by a combination of altruism and self-interest. Put yourself in the potential contributor’s shoes, ask yourself how the proposed AED program might benefit them directly (e.g., by projecting a positive image or increasing visibility in the community), and emphasize these added benefits.
• Seek funding from multiple sources. Never rely on a sole source of support.
• If you do receive funding, express your gratitude. If you do not, find out why. You may be able to strengthen your appeal before approaching other potential sources.
• Be patient, persistent and positive. Funding decisions can sometimes take months. More often than not, it is well worth the wait.

If your organization does not have tax-exempt nonprofit status, it may be advantageous to become affiliated with a nonprofit organization or consider forming one. This status provides a stronger incentive for potential donors, since donations to nonprofit organizations are tax deductible.

Resources for creating non-profit organizations are available through:

• National Center for Nonprofit Boards: www.ncnb.org
• Support Centers of America: www.igc.apc.org
• American Society of Association Executives: www.asaenet.org
  

Some potential funding sources will require you to write a formal proposal. The proposal should be designed to convince reviewers not only that the proposed AED program is vitally important for your community, but also that it would make the best use of charitable dollars. (Remember, you are competing with other grant applicants.) Your proposal should be accompanied by a brief cover letter and should include the sections listed below:

• Executive summary: Present an overview of the entire proposal. This is the most important section. It must be well-written and succinct so that reviewers feel compelled to read on. It should never exceed one page.
• Statement of need: The statement of need should describe the problem of sudden cardiac arrest and how it plays out in your community. Make sure your facts are accurate. Avoid making overstatements and excessively emotional appeals. Explain why the proposed AED program is necessary. Explain why your agency is well-suited to implement the AED program. Present a picture of hope, pointing out the positive impact of other AED programs, especially those in similar or neighboring communities. If you think your program could become a model for others to emulate, say so, especially if you think the contributor may be interested in its applicability elsewhere.
• Program description: Describe exactly how the program would be implemented. This section should list objectives, or measurable outcomes. For example, you might say, "Through the proposed AED program, we expect to respond to victims of cardiac arrest an average of four minutes sooner than current response times and we expect to save (x) additional lives each year." Describe the methods you will use to achieve your objectives. Introduce the personnel who will implement the program and their qualifications. If you plan to partner with other community agencies or groups, highlight your plans for collaboration. Describe your plans to evaluate the impact of the proposed AED program and report periodically on progress to contributors. Reports may not be required, but they will be appreciated. Provide a timetable for implementation.
• Budget: Estimate projected costs for the proposed AED program and how much you are seeking from this contributor. If you have secured (or expect to secure) funding from other sources, refer to these resources. Be sure to state how your AED program will be sustained after the funding period.
• Organizational information: Briefly describe your organization or agency, its mission, structure, programs, accomplishments and expertise.
• Conclusion: In one or two paragraphs, summarize what you want to accomplish and why it is important. End the proposal with a strong statement designed to make a memorable impact.
• Attachments: Attach letters of support from program partners and community leaders (optional).

As you develop your proposal, bear in mind that grant makers will evaluate applications based on several key criteria:

• Does the proposed program fits into the scope of the foundation?
• Is there is a need for the program in the community?
• Is the program unique and creative?
• Is the budget realistic?
• Is the timetable reasonable?
• Can program concepts be applied in other locations?
• Will the program continue after the funding period is up?
• Is the organization committed to the program?
• Is there evidence of collaboration and support for the program?
• Is the organization likely to "take the money and run" or keep in touch with the contributor on how things are progressing?
• How likely it is that the program will make a difference in the community?

It is essential to find financial support to get your AED program up and running. Many communities are able to obtain sufficient funds through agency or community budgets. Others must seek additional sources of funding. There are several sources to consider for additional funding: local corporations and industries, local civic organizations, private foundations, public charities, government grants and traditional fund-raisers. Many times, simple appeals, such as letters or presentations to community groups, may be all that is needed to generate funds. Other times, more extensive efforts may be required. Communities need not be intimidated by the funding process. Educational resources to help communities raise funds abound. And, there are plentiful financial resources available to support community service projects such as AED programs. Communities should be patient, persistent and positive in the pursuit of funding for AED programs. Don’t give up! Remember that the life this AED saves could be your own!