The business subsystem must obtain reliable sources of revenue so the team can make its necessary purchases. One of the most important roles of the business subsystem is to manage the team’s budget. At the beginning of each year, a budget is developed to create a breakdown of the year’s expenses based on the designs that are created for the vehicle. From these numbers, subsystem budgets are derived and subsystem leads are responsible for using those monies appropriately. Generally, the business subsystem helps these leads throughout the year to ensure money is used appropriately for the leads’ desired design goals.

In addition to creating these budgets, the business subsystem must also monitor the team’s current balances and make decisions about when purchasing should be made. This is a result of how the team gets money. Sponsors do not donate money at the same time. Different companies will make their donations throughout the year, which results in a team balance that can fluctuate throughout the year. Therefore it is vital to maintain proper relations with sponsors and continually seek out prospective sponsors. 

In addition to managing sponsor relations, the team must successfully coordinate marketing tactics to best promote the team across social media and the school. Business designs t-shirts, polos, and jackets for each competition year, follows through on sponsor benefits packages, and maintains the team’s social media and website to apprise alumni and sponsors of progress. Any material posted should present the team positively and professionally and reflect well on the team.