Funding is an important element in the success of your projects. As a baseline amount, course materials fees will provide each project with $100/quarter for each officially enrolled student in that MAE 189 project. You should also speak to your advisor as he/she may have additional fund for your project through discretionary funds, research contracts or grants and/or donations.

Do not hesitate to talk to vendors about discounts. Many companies offer educational discounts. Sometimes individuals are happy to participate in your academic journey and creative work, and will give you free product and advice. It never hurts to ask. Note that you have a higher chance to negotiate discounts and donations when you talk to someone either in person or on the phone. E-mail is not a good way to develop a good relationship with a vendor or sponsor.
Below are more formal, direct sources for funding.

The aim the SDP-Fund is to provide financial assistance to those teams who can demonstrate need and successful execution of projects with additional funding. The SDP-Fund can be used to support the costs of participation, materials, equipment, and fees. Travel expenses are not eligible.

The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) encourages and facilitates creative activities by undergraduates from all schools and academic disciplines at UCI. UROP provides grants in support of UCI faculty-mentored undergraduate research and creative projects. The two separate calls for proposals for these grants are announced in the Fall and Spring Quarters of each school year. If your project crosses school boundaries, you might also be able to support your project with a Multidisciplinary Design Program (MDP) grant. SDP students have had good success in securing UROP funding. It should be noted that UROP funds require participation in UROP activities. Click on the image above for more information.

From time to time, companies and private entities may be interested in providing funds via donations for your project. Shana Chance, Director of Corporate Relations, can help you make arrangements to receive the donations and pass it on to your project’s account. The school places a 5% handling fee on all donations. Shana’s contact information is listed below.

Shana Chance
Director of Corporate Relations
5236 Engineering Hall
Irvine, CA 92697-2700
Phone: 949-824-3977
Email: schance@uci.edu