Event Budget Calculator
Enter your line items to get a complete budget breakdown — with tax and contingency included.
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Join the WaitlistFrequently Asked Questions
How do I create an event budget?+
Start with your major cost categories — venue, catering, audio-visual, staffing, marketing, and a contingency line (usually 10–15%). Enter your event size and this calculator produces a full line-item budget breakdown you can adjust and export.
What percentage of an event budget should be contingency?+
Set aside 10–15% of your total budget as contingency for unexpected costs — last-minute AV needs, weather backups, or price increases. For first-time events, lean toward 15% because estimates are less reliable.
What are the biggest costs when planning an event?+
Venue and catering are usually the two largest line items, often 50–60% of the total budget combined. Audio-visual, marketing, and staffing follow. Sponsorship revenue can offset much of this — which is where a strong sponsorship package helps.
Is the Event Budget Calculator free?+
Yes — completely free, no account or email required, with an instant line-item breakdown. Built for Canadian event organizers by SponsorMatch.ca.