I have written several letters like this. First thing and very importantly. You will need a copy of your budget. You need to itemize it. If you don’t know how look it up or ask for help. Attach this to your letter along with your tax ID number (can obtain from university) and where they can send checks to. In your letter there are important essential elements: You want to state what your organization is. You want to state why your organization is important to the local community and why it is important in general. You want to state what your organization needs money for and that you have attached a budget. You need to state how local companies can help (ex: monetary donations or in-kind/supply donations). You need to state how you will help them. Perhaps you will send out an annual newsletter with companies names on it to help advertise your contributors. Remember that probably only 10% of people you send letters to will respond favorably. You can increase that response by following up with phone calls. Feel free to ask me more questions on this.