What is an event sponsor?
Event sponsors (sometimes referred to as a corporate sponsor) are companies, organizations or individuals that offer funding to support particular events. This is usually done in exchange for a certain level of promotional benefits depending on the terms of your particular sponsorship and contract.
The benefits of partnering with event sponsors
Partnering with event sponsors provides key benefits that can make your fundraising efforts all the more impactful. Working with sponsors:
- Can provide additional financial support
- Can increase the credibility and visibility of your event/fundraiser
- Can increase attendance and engagement
- Means that more of the money that’s raised can go toward your cause
1. Outline your event in detail
Make a detailed list of what you want for the event. Include things like:
- Where the event will be held
- What activities there will be (such as entertainment or games)
- If there will be food and drinks
Use this list to plan your event budget. The more details you include, the easier it will be to get the right sponsors and reach your goals.
2. Decide how much funding is needed
Figure out how much money you'd need from sponsors to reach your event goals. For big events, you can create different levels of sponsorship. This way, several companies or organizations can help. For example, title sponsors would give the most funding, while presenting sponsors would give the next most funding and so on.
3. Research organizations
Now it's time to begin researching organizations or people who would be most appropriate to sponsor your event. While it’s important to consider how the company or person connects back to your event and cause, make sure you aren’t counting anyone out simply because there isn’t a direct connection.
Pro-tip: Consider reaching out to companies that have already sponsored similar events.
4. Create personalized proposals
Once you’ve decided who you would like to contact for support with your event, begin creating personalized proposals that explain:
- What you are looking for in a sponsorship
- Why the sponsorship is important (e.g., the impact it will have)
- What benefits the company or person will get from this opportunity
5. Build relationships
Once you've secured your event sponsorships, keep building those relationships with regular updates about the event, its progress and its impact. Building strong relationships with your sponsors can lead to more support for future events, networking opportunities and more.
Looking for more information about fundraising or charity events?
Questions about how to get corporate sponsors
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You should ask potential event sponsors at least 3 to 6 months in advance. This allows sponsors time to review your proposal, secure approvals, and plan their involvement.
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Yes, small businesses can sponsor fundraising events. They may contribute financially, provide in-kind donations, or offer services and promotional support, making them valuable partners for charity events.
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Event sponsors help cover event costs, increase credibility, expand reach, and ensure that more funds raised can go directly toward supporting St. Jude patients and families.
Help St. Jude cure childhood cancer
Because of your support, we can provide children with cutting-edge treatments not covered by insurance, at no cost to families. Unlike other hospitals, the majority of funding for St. Jude comes from generous donors. Join us and be part of our mission to save more lives.
St. Jude patient Hazel and father
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