Budgets

One of your first steps will be to create an Entertainment Certification Form (downloadable from the Business Services website), which includes anticipated expenses, the chartstring(s) funds will be attributed to, and signatures of the event host (chartstring approver) and Event Planner Card (EPC) holder.
 
Please also review UC Berkeley Events – Meetings & Entertainment Policies to ensure your purchase choices fall within campus guidelines.

Expenses

Below are approximate event-related costs to help you plan your budget. For guidance on recommended payment methods for various expenses [bluCard, BearBuy, Event Planner Card (EPC), etc.], please see the Purchasing and Payment Method Matrix provided by the Controller’s Office and Supply Chain Management.

CATERING

Please refer to the Maximum Meal Expenses page on the UC Berkeley Controller’s website to ensure that your budget is within the per-person maximum allowable expense limits. 

Breakfast ($8 to $27)
Lunch ($10 to $47)
Breaks ($4 to $19)
Dinner ($20 to $81) 
Reception ($8 to $19)
Service Charges (15% to 20% – included in per person limit)
Taxes (9.25% in Alameda – included in per person limit)

TRAVEL

Please refer to UC Berkeley’s Travel Policy in a Nutshell

Parking Passes ($10 to $20)
Hotel ($110 to $275)
Flights ($120 to $750 domestic)
Taxi Service ($64 OAK; $96 SFO – both one way)
Shuttles ($30)

GENERAL EXPENSES

Outside Space Rental (~$500)
Graphic Design (~$1500)
Printing (~$750)
Mailing (~$500)
A/V and Technical Support (~$1500 with technician)

A sample Excel budget for a two day conference can be found on the Event Templates page. 

If you have any questions regarding allowable expenses and how to pay vendors, please contact Business Services by emailing inquiries@law.berkeley.edu.

To access ESU’s vendor list of venues, caterers and more please email esu@law.berkeley.edu.

Income

FUNDRAISING

If you plan to solicit financial support for your event from external individuals, law firms, or other organizations you must consult with the Berkeley Law Alumni Center before you contact potential donors.

If you plan on hosting your fundraising event on campus, please review our Room Reservation policies and guidelines.