Starting a club made simple

Find your people today!

So, you’ve been scrolling on TikTok for hours, bonding with strangers over niche hobbies—stamp collection, language learning or competitive UNO, you name it. You maybe even dropped a Reddit post in hopes of finding people with the same interests as you, and now you’re thinking, “Man, if only I could start a club for this IRL.”  

Good news, everyone: you can! With IGNITE, your passion doesn’t have to be online or pinned in your notes. You can join an IGNITE Club or even start your very own and build a community right here on campus.

Yes, you heard that right. You can be a founder of the next best club and the reason a bunch of students meet every week to hang out or nerd out. Host exciting events, meet new people and inspire others to try out a different activity or learn about different communities.

We understand that starting a club can seem very intimidating—but don’t worry, it is way easier than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to start a club and a chance to be the founder of the next big thing.

#1 Recruit your team

Man saying "Everyone's got a hobby, right?" — *Via GIPHY*

Every club starts with a passion. Ask yourself, “What interests me?” Whether it’s dancing, painting, typology or the latest K-drama series, your imagination is the limit.

Once you figure out the interest, recruit at least 10 people.

Can’t find them? Don’t worry, they don’t have to be just your friends. Ask your classmates (free snacks are always a yes), post about it on your socials or even start a conversation with students on campus— intimidating but so worth it!

Additionally, you’ll also need two executives (aka you and your day ones).

Pro-tip: Funny friends are always the vibe, but go for the reliable friend who won’t ghost you when it’s time to host.

#2 Make it official

person taking photo of woman doing paint artwork — *Picture by Rahul Jain via Unsplash.*

Yay! You got your members and executives. Now, let’s make it official.

Head over to the IGNITE website, where you will find the application form, the club policy and the club handbook.

The application form is where you’ll fill in all the details. This includes the name of the club, the list of members and the fun activities you plan on doing. If you can explain it in one sentence, you’re golden.

Here’s an example for an art club: “We will meet every week to explore art and art styles, and share paintings with each other.” Easy peasy.

Once you’ve submitted your must-haves, keep an eye out as a club coordinator will reach out within three business days.

#3 With great clubs comes great responsibility

Spiderman holding up a thumbs up — *Via GIPHY*

Congratulations, you got your club approved! Epic events are now just one step away.

As exciting as starting a club can be, executives must know how to maintain and run its events. That’s why executives must complete mandatory training.

Don’t worry, it’s not scary—just a quick training session to make sure you know how to run a club (and not burn out halfway through).

#4 IGNITE support

A man holding a piece of paper is looking at a woman with a smile on his face, while another woman is looking at him. — *Picture by IGNITE*

Here’s the part where IGNITE makes your club dreams real. Once you’re approved, IGNITE helps you with funding, promotion and guidance (so you’re not figuring things by yourself).

Basically, IGNITE helps you turn your idea into a real thing. You’re not just a Pinterest board anymore—you’re official!

You’re all set!

Now for the fun part, get ready to host and post! Organize meetups, plan events and start discussions your members are excited about. You can host tournaments or even just cozy weekly hangouts.

Did it even happen if we don’t Instagram it?

Start an official account for the club and post about the events. Sharing about your club on social media through stories, highlights and posts makes your club visible.

The passion, the people

The coolest part of a club isn’t just the activities, it’s the people you meet.

Your passions and interests deserve a space to shine and reach others. And with IGNITE, starting a club has never been easier. A simple idea and an apply button can go a long way to be unforgettable.

So, what are you waiting for? That club isn’t going to start itself. Good luck!

Feature image courtesy of Brooke Cagle via Unsplash.

Still not convinced? Check out more benefits of joining an IGNITE club!