Getting a marketing budget increased? It may sound like something out of an episode of Mission: Impossible. But it can be done, even in a tough economy.

You’ve heard it before: Marketing is an investment, not an expense. If you’ve spent wisely in the current fiscal year and can show beneficial results, you’re in a much better position. If you can demonstrate strong competitive pressures that can be addressed through additional marketing spend, all the better.

Here are five steps to kick-start that all-important request for additional funding.