Template: Chapter Budget for Make Music Vermont

A budget template for local Make Music Vermont chapters, with sample budgets and Vermont-specific guidance.

Overview

This template provides a framework for planning your local Make Music Day chapter budget. A Make Music Vermont chapter can run effectively on a modest budget — or even minimal funds. Adapt the line items to fit your community's needs and available resources.

Sample Budget: Small Chapter (~$4,500)

Based on Make Music Hartford FY20

Expenses

Sample Budget: Medium Chapter with Stipends (~$4,500)

Based on Make Music Long Beach FY22

Expenses

Revenue

Vermont Adaptations

What You Might Not Need

• Insurance fees — If you're operating under an existing organization (arts council, municipality), insurance may already be covered
• Venue fees — Make Music Day typically uses free locations: porches, parks, sidewalks, general stores
• Sound equipment — Most events are acoustic; gear can often be donated or provided in-kind

Vermont-Specific Considerations

• Smaller scale — Rural Vermont chapters may have significantly smaller budgets
• Travel/mileage — Vermont's spread-out geography may require mileage reimbursement for organizers
• Weather contingency — Consider modest funds for backup indoor locations

Vermont-Specific Funding Sources

Potential Sponsors

• Vermont Arts Council grants
• Local Select Boards/City Councils
• Regional Development Corporations
• Local businesses and credit unions
• Community foundations
• Tourism boards

In-Kind Support

• Local radio stations for media partnerships
• Print shops for discounted materials
• Volunteer photographers/videographers
• Local venues providing space
• Music shops for instrument loans

Budget Planning Tips

Key Considerations

1. Musician Stipends — Consider whether to offer stipends. Some chapters pay performers; others rely entirely on volunteers. Both models work.
2. Fiscal Sponsorship — If your chapter isn't a registered nonprofit, consider partnering with a local arts organization as your fiscal sponsor (typically 5-10% fee).
3. Printing Costs — Many print shops offer nonprofit discounts. Ask!
4. MMA Fee — The Make Music Alliance fee provides access to the national platform, marketing materials, and sponsor benefits. This is optional but recommended.
5. Buffer — Always aim for revenue slightly above expenses for unexpected costs.

Cost-Saving Tips

Photography & Video

• Recruit emerging photographers looking to build portfolios
• Keep with the volunteer spirit of Make Music Day
• Provide photo credit and social media exposure as compensation

Printed Materials

• Partner with local print shops for sponsorship or discounts
• Use digital promotion to reduce print needs
• Design simple materials that can be photocopied locally

Venues & Equipment

• All locations should be free — that's the Make Music Day model
• Gear donations from local music shops or musicians
• In-kind contributions from venue partners

Blank Budget Template

Expenses

Revenue

Key Takeaway

A Make Music Vermont chapter can run effectively on a modest budget. Focus spending on visibility (banners, printing), volunteer appreciation, and essential fees. Let the community provide the rest through participation and in-kind support.

Adapted from Make Music Hartford and Make Music Long Beach budgets for Make Music Vermont