B1 or B2 for Non-Profit founder

[Gupps Jon]

Hi
I am the founder and trustee of a 2 year old Indian NGO. I don't receive any salary from my NGO.
An American citizen (who is also my close friend now) has a NGO registered in USA.
We want to partner and work together - so he has invited me to meet with his American NGO Board and Donors.
I'll live with him and they'll pay half of the travel cost.

(I am married with 1 child, I have a regular stable 7 year old job with a software company and I earn well. )

1. Does b1 VISA seem appropriate to meet American NGO leaders and their donors ?
2. What should i keep in mind ? (Any other advice) ?

[peace999]

Yes, B1 is the right visa.
You can claim half funding by them later but for visa purpose show that you are self funding in full.
You can show your friend as the contact person. Get an invitation from him on his NGOs letterhead.
Also, your income from your job would be important in the decision.

[Gupps Jon]

Yes, B1 is the right visa.
You can claim half funding by them later but for visa purpose show that you are self funding in full.

Thank you Peace999 for the helpful reply.
Does self funding give a better impression over sponsored ?

[peace999]

yes, self sponsored tells the officer that you have strong financial ties to home country and you are likely to return.

[Gupps Jon]

Thank you once again.