How to fundraise correctly
- 1Budget the project — figure out what money or materials you actually need.
- 2Check the source test — if everything comes from the "inside" circle, no application needed.
- 3If any outside source is involved, complete the Fundraising Application.
- 4Get it approved in writing by the beneficiary, unit leader, and council — before asking anyone.
- 5Solicit and collect transparently; keep records for the report.
- 6Give leftover funds or materials to the beneficiary — never keep excess.
The source test
- No application needed if contributions come only from the candidate; their parents, guardians, or relatives; the unit or its chartered organization; members or parents of the unit; or the beneficiary.
- Application required for money, materials, supplies, or donations from any other (outside) source.
- Leftovers — all money left over, regardless of source, goes to the beneficiary.
Notes & integrity
- Don't solicit before approval — asking for donations before the application is approved violates the rules and can jeopardize the project.
- The scout doesn't profit — no leftover money goes to the candidate; excess belongs to the beneficiary.
- The project can't be a money-raiser — a fundraising drive is not itself a valid Eagle project.
- Someone other than the scout usually holds the funds — typically the beneficiary or the unit; confirm local practice.
Going deeper
- Ask permission before asking for money. No donation request until the Fundraising Application is approved in writing — by beneficiary, unit leader, and council.
- Leftovers aren't yours. Whatever's left over — cash or materials — goes to the beneficiary.
- Family and troop money is simplest. If you fund it from yourself, family, the unit, or the beneficiary, you skip the application entirely — outside donations are what trigger it.
Official source
Eagle Scout — Scouting America →Fundraising rules are paraphrased. Verify the exact "inside sources" list, approver list, and excess-funds rule against the current Eagle Scout Service Project Fundraising Application and Guide to Advancement.