Hi Staci,
One thing that may be helpful is if you have a quick summary about your PTO. You could either provide a written copy of this to the business manager or owner or use it yourself for "talking points'' so the folks you meet understand what your group is all about. You can try stopping into area businesses, asking for the manager, and then asking when would be a good time for you to have a conversation. (People usually don't like when you just start talking when they are right in the middle of something.) If the person has a few minutes, be direct (they don't have a lot of time and won't appreciate it if you are dragging it out) and ask if they would be interested in supporting your PTO's efforts to support the school. If you are trying to fund a particular thing (iPads for the school, outdoor recess equipment, etc.), it is helpful to let folks know what the money would be used for. THey may not want to make a decision on the spot, which is fine. Ask if you can follow up with them by phone or email in a few days.

Hope this helps! Please follow up if you have other questions,

Rose C