Total expenses for the Institute are projected to be $5-10 million for the first year, increasing to $17 million in the fourth and fifth years. A major goal will be to minimize tuition and fees and maximize faculty salaries by eliminating unnecessary programs and activities such as intercollegiate sports and the construction of large and expensive sports facilities. The focus of SMI must be on its mission.

SMI is now initiating a major fund raising campaign and has recently been approved for 501(C)(3) (tax-exempt) status. Donations are now fully tax deductible and should be sent to the address above (Section VII) and checks should be payable to: Southern Military Institute.