Get ahead by finding a sponsor in advance.
A sponsor provides financial support or a free service, such printing of posters, for an event. In exchange, the sponsor receives free advertising which enables him to publicize his business to a specific audience. Finding someone to sponsor an event can be a challenge, if you lack experience or understanding in this business area. However, you can put yourself one step ahead if you allow yourself plenty of time to find a sponsor, and persuade him to support you.
Instructions
1. Define exactly how you want the sponsor to be involved and what you can offer her in return for her help. Write a list if it helps you. For example, if you want a sponsor to provide center pieces for a dinner, decide the style of the pieces, and how many you need. This gives you a clarity and focus when you communicate with potential sponsors.
2. Brainstorm specific types of businesses, organizations or individuals who would be suitable to sponsor your event. The sponsor needs to have a business interest in the event, otherwise they would gain nothing from providing support. For example, a hotel could sponsor a luxury get-away weekend as a prize at a charity auction. Or, a book shop could sponsor a creative writing contest.
3. Go through the directory inquiries book. Find the name and contact details for the businesses that could sponsor the event. Also, look online for a direct contact number for the director or head office to get through to the decision maker.
4. Walk around your town or city, and speak with local businesses and managers directly about potentially sponsoring your event. Tell them about it, and how they could benefit from being involved.
5. Check "The Business Journal" or "Foundation Center" database for companies looking for sponsorship opportunities. For example, you can search for companies who offer grants through the "Foundation Center"- offering a sponsorship to them might tempt them to give you the cash.
6. Re-connect with current or previous clients, customers or companies with whom you have worked in the past. Re-engage those who are familiar with your event or services as that may work in your favor when requesting sponsorship funds.
7. Contact the potential sponsors. Speaking with the individual in charge of marketing and public relations or with the director is best, as they will be most likely to make such a key decision.
8. Deliver your pitch. Outline the event, then sell him on the reasons the sponsorship is good for his business. Explain the marketing opportunity you are prepared to offer, and the type of exposure he should expect to receive from the event. Confirm that his business can hit its target audience through its presence at your event.
9. Follow up the call with a letter, and provide a leaflet or flyer about the event. Then, call the potential sponsor again a few days later once she has had a chance to review the material.
Tags: your event, could sponsor, Foundation Center, potential sponsors, sponsor event