DON'T BE AFRAID TO ASK!! The #1 reason why groups or businesses don't participate and give $$ is that no one ASKED them. 9 out of 10 groups you approach may say "no" but it is that one "yes" that counts!!
DON'T BE DISCOURAGED BY A "NO" Play detective and investigate if "no" means "not right now". This could be an opportunity to start building a relationship with a potential funder to find out more about their philanthropic objectives, policies, and the key gatekeepers with whom you need to stay in touch.
"PITCH" TO THE BOTTOM LINE When compiling your sponsorship levels, remember you are not just asking the sponsor to cover the cost of your event's budgeted items such as t-shirts, banners etc. Rather, you are selling a sponsorship package that is worth much more - a direct affiliation with the community; the greatest and most in-demand resource for a corporate sponsor. When possible, specify the projected number of attendees and emphasize the anticipated number and types of impressions that the sponsorship will achieve for the sponsor. For example, if your event draws 500 participants, the sponsor can anticipate 500 impressions by placing its logos on the event programs.
PLAN AHEAD Most businesses and groups have a finite grants/sponsorship budget that they distribute according to a set giving cycle. You should also remember that your organization is most likely competing with other organizations for those funds. It pays to plan ahead before your LIGHTS ON AFTERSCHOOL event will take place to confirm the potential sponsor's giving cycle in order to meet the set deadlines.
BAND TOGETHER LIGHTS ON AFTERSCHOOL is a great opportunity to team up with other local organizations to compete for sponsorships or grants. This team approach will benefit both you and the sponsor: lower costs for maximum exposure.
WHAT'S IN A NAME… Attract potential sponsors with creative media-savvy ways to publicize a partnership with your organization and to increase the number of impressions for the sponsors. See our list of 32 Ways to Give Sponsors Exposure at your Lights On Afterschool Event for ideas.
DON'T FORGET YOUR THANK YOUS Be sure to personalize your thank yous! For example, instead of just sending a thank you card, create an "afterschool champion" award ceremony to honor your sponsor's corporate citizenship and include your organization's children in the ceremony to present the award. Another example of making the thank you more meaningful is by having the children create their own thank you cards to the sponsor.
ALWAYS STAY IN TOUCH Be sure to keep the door open for future asks by sending your sponsor periodic updates on your organization.
