How to Get Sponsorship for an Endeavor

Getting sponsorship is crucial to providing funds for charities, events and activities. Follow these guidelines to get the money flowing.

Instructions

1. Start with family and friends. This should be your first avenue for sponsorship money. It is important to sit your family down and explain what the money would be used for.

2. Contact all the people and companies you do business with. People and companies to whom you provide money and patronage will be more willing to repay the kindness with a donation or sponsorship.

3. Look to businesses who have a stake in the enterprise you are raising funds for. Car parts manufacturers and engine builders may want to provide funding for a car race and hospitals may want to donate to organizations that raise money for health-related items.

4. Identify corporate sponsors who associate with certain events. Beer distributors and sportswear manufacturers often contribute to help put on sporting events.

Tips & Warnings

• Let the sponsor know what they get in return, i.e., advertising (where, what type and how much).

• Ask if sponsors are willing to provide gifts instead of or in addition to money.

• Start as early as you can seeking sponsorship from larger companies. Many companies plan their sponsorship for the entire year a year ahead of time.

• Ask to speak with the person in charge of comsumer relations or sponsorship.

• Always be polite.

• Make the giving a win-win situation. Show the company or person how they will benefit by sponsoring.

• Don't give up. Be creative in finding new sources for sponsorship.

• Provide information such as a brochure on event or charity to potential sponsors.