The purpose of launching the VSO Collaboration Initiative is to encourage the many student groups that are active on Stanford University's campus to work together to create unique programming that reflects their common missions. There is a plethora of quality programming that is created by hardworking students, however, the pitfalls of over-programming, increasing pressure of budget constraints, and the need for creative marketing strategies complicates the process for student groups. To support this initiative, the ASSU is offering money to student group teams that apply and qualify for collaboration funds to help realize their goal. The Dean of Students Greg Boardman has also graciously pledged that he will match whatever funds the ASSU distributes for this purpose. One of the central purposes of the VCI is to build bridges between groups with similar general purposes or similar programming interests, and to encourage them to pool their financial and human resources together to brainstorm bigger, better and more inclusive events. This reduces the number of rooms needed, opens up new avenues for marketing, and in general saves a lot of money. Groups are encouraged to keep the planning of their annual, staple events within the group, however new projects can be made more successful the first time around through the collaboration process. A second but no less important purpose for the VCI is to increase the student attendance at all student events and to broaden the number of students who develop an interest in and appreciation for other groups. The hope is that this will encourage social interaction amongst students and develop planning, leadership and networking skills. If you submit an application by 12pm Thursday of a given week, you can sign up for 20 minute interviews on Friday from 3pm - 4.15pm. Interviews are required. Anyone from the groups can interview - we like to see key organizers and one financial officer. It takes at least 2 weeks for our funding to transfer to your account should your program receive a grant.

The ASSU recognizes that not all VSO's do programming, or may be in need of this fund. However, we encourage all groups to consider unique ways of collaborating and to talk to committee members for inspiration. Whether or not a student group needs funding or receives funding through this process, we highly encourage networking and collaboration among all the VSO?s at Stanford.