How to Sponsor a Singing Contest

Singing contests have become popular over the years due to many televised reality show contests such as "American Idol." Consider sponsoring a large or small contest to promote your business while donating your time and money to a fun and worthy cause.

Instructions

1. Find an organization hosting a singing contest. Look at colleges, community centers, local radio stations and music stores for information about the latest event. If nothing is happening, partner with one of these centers to create a contest.

2. Know the specific details of the contest. Ask about the age group allowed to participate, whether they need to be a part of certain group and whether the event will be hosted on a live stage, will be televised or will appear on the Internet.

3. Donate prizes for the winners and other participants. Consider cash prizes, voice lessons, tickets to a concert, time in a recording studio or coupons for free music for the winners and runners-up of the singing contest.

4. Create posters and other advertisements with the host and co-sponsors to give attention to your participation with the project. Place your business logo anywhere you are able and post a blog entry or ad on your website.

5. Include gift bags for all participants or audience members with your sponsorship. Give discount coupons to your store or free promotional items such as CD cases and informational brochures to the host to distribute.

6. Create and deliver press releases to the media announcing the event and inviting the community. Post these releases on your website as well and keep representatives from your company posted among the crowd and backstage to direct media professionals through the contest.

Tips & Warnings

• Give gift cards, coupons or physical prizes rather than money when you can. You want people to come into your business, not take the money and shop elsewhere.

• Know your budget. Donate what you can with money, but remember that donating your time can be just as important. Help with setup, MC the event or task your staff with greeting guests.

• Avoid sponsoring the singing contest with your business's direct competitors. Instead, ask that you be the only business sponsorship in your market or find another competition.

• Avoid false advertising. If you say you're giving away a cash prize, make sure you give what you promised. Cover yourself legally so as not to find yourself in a lawsuit.

• Never fix or falsify any results of the singing contest. This is unethical and illegal and can get you in serious trouble with penalties, fines or even jail time.