How to Ask for a Donation or Sponsorship

If your nonprofit organization is having a fundraising event, you can solicit a for-profit corporation to sponsor the event or to give a donation. Sponsoring and donating are similar but not equivalent. A business gives a donation without expecting anything in return; a sponsorship is given in exchange for advertising space or publicity. Asking for help from companies is beneficial because it provides necessary funds for your cause. Raising money for your organization depends on your ability to ask for and successfully obtain a donation or a sponsorship.

Instructions

1. Research potential companies to ask for a donation or sponsorship. Choose companies with the same interests as yours or that have donated to similar causes.

2. Identify the correct person with whom to speak about the donation or sponsorship. Directing your request to the wrong person hinders your efforts.

3. Call several companies to gauge the interest in sponsoring your event. This precludes mailing letters to businesses with no interest in working with you. Make a list of companies to solicit, based on the outcome of your phone calls.

4. Write a letter specifying the type of donation or sponsorship needed, why you need it and the benefit to the business that you are soliciting. Include the date and location of your event and state if your organization has 501(c)(3) status.

5. Deliver the letter in person whenever possible. Present a favorable image by dressing professionally.

6. Follow up with companies that have not yet responded to your request. Find out if there are any questions that you can answer to help them make a decision.

7. Send a thank-you letter after receiving the donation or sponsorship. Stay in touch with potential sponsors, via newsletter or postal mail updates, in preparation for your next event.

References

• Morrisville, North Carolina, Official Website: Sponsorships vs. Donations
• Wright State University: A Practical Guide to Obtaining Donations From Private Organizations and Companies; Aaron Dowd, et al.; Fall 1999
• StartUpBizHub: How to Approach Businesses for Donations
• Idealist.org; How Can I Find Sponsors for an Event?; Rebeca Mojica and Jayne Cravens