1. Look at your budget and determine how much money you will need to raise in sponsorship dollars.
2. What can you offer sponsors? For example, their logo in the program, banners, links on your website to theirs, promotion in event advertisements, recognition at the event, etc.
3. Calculate how much exposure sponsors will receive from each marketing opportunity. How many people will see the logo? How many people will attend the event? etc.
4. What are the levels of sponsorship and what recognition will each level receive? It is important to make sure that each level is distinct from the other.
5. Determine the sponsorship level dollar amounts. You want to keep costs reasonable, but competitive.
6. Make a list of who you are going to approach for sponsorship. Personal and local contacts are always a good start. Remember, you must clear this list with the Foundation before going out to solicit sponsorship.
7. Approach sponsors early. Send a personalized letter and sponsorship package and follow up with a meeting in person when possible.
8. A sponsorship package should include the following:• cover letter introducing yourself, your committee, the event and why you are holding it;
- proposal, including event background, the cause and how the sponsor will fit into it all; and
- list of benefits, including how much money you are asking the sponsor to consider.
9. Once a company has agreed to sponsor your event, we recommend having the sponsor complete and sign a confirmation form. Also ask if they require an invoice.
10. Say thank you. It is important before, during and after the event to say thank you and get feedback from the sponsor about the event and their recognition. Provide sponsors with pictures from the event, programs and other collateral materials. Be sure to invite your sponsors to the event!
© 2010 Markham Stouffville Hospital
