What is event sponsorship and what are sponsors looking for in an event
Event sponsorship is a mutually beneficial relationship between a company and an event organiser. In exchange for financial or in-kind support, the sponsor receives marketing and branding opportunities from the event. Sponsors are looking for events that will give them exposure to their target market. They want events that are well-organised and have a solid track record of success. They also look to sponsor events with large attendance numbers and media coverage.
Types of event sponsorships
There are a variety of different types of event sponsorships that companies can get involved with. Some of the most common sponsorships include:
Title sponsorship
This is the most sought-after type of sponsorship, and it gives the sponsor exclusive rights to the name of the event.
Event sponsorship
This involves providing financial or in-kind support for an event in exchange for marketing and branding opportunities.
Venue sponsorship
The sponsor pays for the use of a venue in exchange for branding and marketing rights.
Ticketing sponsorship
The sponsor pays for tickets to be given away or sold at a discounted price in exchange for branding and marketing opportunities.
Prize sponsorship
The sponsor provides financial or in-kind support in exchange for having their products or services featured as prizes.
Media sponsorship
The sponsor provides financial or in-kind support in exchange for media exposure before, during, and after the event.
How to reach out to potential sponsors
There are many ways to reach out to prospective sponsors or corporate sponsors for your event. Here are a few of the most effective methods:
Contact the company directly
This is the most direct way to reach a potential sponsor, and it allows you to tailor your proposal specifically to their needs. Be sure to include information about the event, such as the date, location, and target audience, as well as what sponsorship opportunities are available.
Contact a sponsorship agency
There are several companies that specialise in event sponsorship, and they can be a great resource for finding potential sponsors. They have extensive databases of potential sponsors and can help match you with the right partner.
Use social media
Social media is a great way to connect with potential sponsors and spread the word about your event. You can post about your event on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and you can also use hashtags to attract attention.
Networking events
Attend networking events and meetups where you can meet people from the business world who may be interested in sponsoring your event. This is a great way to get direct feedback about your proposal and learn more about what sponsors are looking for in an event.
What to offer sponsors for an event
When proposing sponsorship for an event, be sure to offer potential sponsors a package that includes a variety of sponsorship benefits. Some of the most common benefits include:
Product Giveaways
Sponsors can give away their products or samples at the event. This is a great way to introduce attendees to new products and create excitement about the sponsor’s brand.
Speaking opportunities
Sponsors often have the opportunity to give a brief presentation or speech at the event. This gives them a chance to introduce their company to the attendees and share their unique perspective on the industry.
Complimentary tickets to the event
Sponsors often receive a certain number of free tickets to the event. This allows them to bring clients, employees, or friends and family members to see what the event is all about. For some sponsors, the opportunity to attend the event and network with attendees is more valuable than any other benefit.
Exclusive rights to an event or certain areas of an event
This can be a great way to get sponsors more involved in the event and give them more exposure to their target market. For example, a sponsor may want to be the exclusive provider of food or drink at an event.
Logo placement in event marketing materials
Many sponsors are interested in having their company name and logo included in event marketing materials, such as email newsletters, website banners, and social media posts, or printed materials. This type of sponsorship provides ongoing exposure for the sponsor leading up to and during the event.
What to include in your event sponsorship proposal
When proposing sponsorship for an event, be sure to include the following information:
- The event name, date, and location
- The purpose of the event and the target audience
- Details about the event, such as the size, event attendees, scope, and format
- Provide information about past events and how successful they were.
- Information about the sponsor, such as their target market and marketing objectives
- Details about the sponsorship packages, including what is included and what the sponsor will receive in return
- Your contact information and any other pertinent information
- A proposal budget
If you’re not sure how to create a proposal for an event sponsorship, check out these event sponsorship examples & proposal templates. This will give you a better understanding of what sponsors are looking for in an event.
The best ways to follow up with them
Once you’ve reached out to potential sponsors, it’s important to follow up with them in a timely manner. Here are a few tips for following up with them:
- Send a thank-you note or email after your initial meeting. This is a nice gesture and it shows that you’re interested in working with them.
- Send periodic updates about the event as it gets closer. This helps keep them in the loop and reminds them of their commitment.
- If you haven’t heard back from them, reach out again. It’s possible that they didn’t receive your previous communication, so don’t be afraid to follow up!
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to securing sponsorship for your next event!
Tips for securing sponsorship for your upcoming event
When it comes to securing sponsors for your event, it’s important to make a good impression and put your best foot forward. Here are a few pro tips for securing sponsorship:
1. Start early
The sooner you start reaching out to potential sponsors, the more time they’ll have to consider your proposal. Don’t wait until the last minute!
2. Be organised
When you reach out to potential sponsors, be sure to have all of the information they need at hand. This will make it easier for them to make a decision.
3. Follow up
Don’t forget to follow up with potential sponsors after you’ve reached out to them. This shows that you’re interested in working with them and that you’re serious about securing sponsorship.
4. Be persistent
If a potential sponsor doesn’t respond right away, don’t give up! Keep reaching out to them until they either say yes or tell you they’re not interested.
5. Be creative
Come up with creative ideas for how the sponsor can get involved with your event. This will help make your proposal more appealing to them.
6. Stay in touch
Once the event concludes, be sure to thank your sponsors and stay in touch with them for future events.
So there you have it! Securing sponsorship for your next event can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to securing the sponsorship you need to make your event a success. Stay organised, follow up with potential sponsors, and be persistent in your efforts. By putting your best foot forward and reaching out to potential sponsors in a professional manner, you’re sure to secure the sponsorship you need for your next event.