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How to get sponsors for an event

When planning a charity or fundraising event for St. Jude, event sponsors can help take it to the next level. Check out our how-to guide to finding event sponsors.

Learn How to Get Sponsors Find More Fundraising Tips

 
 

What is an event sponsor?

Event sponsors, sometimes referred to as corporate sponsors, are companies, organizations or individuals that offer funding in support of an event. This is typically done in exchange for promotional benefits, depending on the terms of the sponsorship agreement. 

The benefits of partnering with event sponsors

Partnering with event sponsors may provide benefits that make your fundraising efforts more impactful. Working with sponsors:

  • Can provide additional financial support
  • Can increase the credibility and visibility of your event or fundraiser
  • Can increase attendance and engagement
  • Helps ensure that more of the funds raised can go toward your cause
 
 

How to find sponsors for an event

 

1. Outline your event in detail

Make a detailed list of what you needfor the event. Include details like:

  • Where the event will be held
  • What activities there will be (such as entertainment or games)
  • Whether food and beverages will be provided

Use this list to plan your event budget. The more details you include, the easier it will be to identify potential sponsors and reach your goals.

 

2. Decide how much funding you'll need

Your funding needs will depend on the specifics of your event. For larger events, you can create different levels of sponsorship, which creates the opportunity for several companies or organizations to help. For example, title sponsors would give the most funding in exchange for including their name in the title of your event. A presenting sponsor would give the next most funding for a lower level of name recognition, and so on.

 

3. Research organizations

Research can help you find the organizations or people most appropriate to sponsor your event. Don't rule out potential sponsors simply because they don't have a direct connection to your event or cause. You never know until you ask.

Pro tip: Consider reaching out to companies that have already sponsored similar events.

 

4. Write personalized proposals

Once you’ve identified potential sponsors to contact, you can create personalized proposals that explain:

  • What you're looking for in a sponsorship
  • Why the sponsorship is important (e.g., the impact it will have)
  • What benefits the sponsor will receive from this opportunity
 

5. Build relationships

After you've secured your event sponsorships, continue building those relationships by providing 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 fundraising or event-planning information?

See Our Fundraising Guide

 
 

Questions about how to get corporate sponsors

 

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. Event sponsors help cover event costs, increase credibility, expand your reach and ensure that more funds raised can go directly toward supporting St. Jude patients and families.

 
 

 Why should I fundraise for St. Jude? 

Every child deserves a chance to live their best life and celebrate every moment. When you support St. Jude, you can help make cures possible for kids with cancer. Together, we can save more lives.

Fundraise for St. Jude

 
 

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