How to Find (and Keep!) Event Sponsors

Hosting an event can be a great way to bring people together and create memorable experiences, but it can also be a costly endeavor. That's why finding sponsors for your event can be an important step in ensuring its success. Sponsors can provide financial support and other resources that can help you offset the costs of your event and make it more successful.

Here are some steps you can take to find sponsors for your event:

• Identify your target audience: Before you start reaching out to potential sponsors, it's important to have a clear understanding of who your target audience is. This will help you determine which companies and organizations are most likely to be interested in sponsoring your event. The more specific you can be about the demographics your event serves, the better chance you’ll have at capturing a sponsor’s interest.

• Research potential sponsors: Once you have a clear understanding of your target audience, you can start researching potential sponsors. Look for companies and organizations that align with your event's mission and values, and that have a history of sponsoring similar events.

• Create a sponsorship package: Once you have identified potential sponsors, it's time to create a sponsorship package. This should include information about your event, including the dates, location, and expected attendance, as well as the benefits that sponsors will receive by supporting your event. Be sure to include different levels of sponsorship, with varying benefits. Don’t forget digital benefits as well, these can be extremely valuable to potential sponsors and the data can serve as selling points for next year’s sponsors.  Determine price point, but don’t include it in the messaging itself.

• Reach out to potential sponsors: After you have created your sponsorship package, it's time to start reaching out to potential sponsors. Personalize your approach and be sure to mention the benefits that they will receive by supporting your event. Follow up with them and make sure they received your message.

• Negotiate and close the deal: Once you have received interest from potential sponsors, it's time to negotiate the terms of the sponsorship. Be sure to clearly communicate the benefits that they will receive and the expectations you have for their involvement in the event. Once you have agreed on the terms, be sure to put it in writing and have both parties sign the agreement. Once you know more about exactly what the prospect wants and the value to that sponsor, price the specific proposal for that sponsor. Package deals are not worth the same amount to every sponsor. You may be leaving money on the table.

• Show your gratitude: After the event, be sure to thank your sponsors for their support and provide them with any materials they may need. This will help to build a positive relationship and increase the chances that they will sponsor your event again in the future.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of finding the right sponsors for your event. Remember, it's important to be proactive, personalize your approach and be grateful for their support. With the right sponsors in place, you can create a successful event that will be memorable for all the right reasons.

Are you overwhelmed by the prospect of attracting sponsors? Are you wanting support and guidance from a sponsorship professional? Check out our consultation page to see if an hourly consultation or project-based sponsorship package could be right for you.