It's About Time
What is the best way to put together a solid sponsorship package?
Kate Baker Frawley - We make our sponsorship packages customizable so that each sponsor gets what is best for their business. For example, it may not be important for a sponsor to have their name printed on DFK materials. However, they may find two event booths more appealing. We look at sponsorship as an ongoing relationship; we consider what will work best for both parties and what will keep the relationship strong and growing. Although we have sponsorship levels (i.e., $15,000 included in all print materials, $1,000 and below included in event day signage and/or table at event), we customize our packages to fit their needs.
Bridget McDonald - Begin planning early; know who was supportive the year before; and have them help you identify one of their friends who might want to help with the current year project. Have kids help with the pitch to the sponsor. When appropriate, have a young person go along to explain the event and its importance.
What is your planning committee's role in securing sponsorship?
Kate Baker Frawley - The committee chair and I do most of the work. However, we ask each committee member to think about potential sponsors, and when it is appropriate, join us in reaching out to them.
Bridget McDonald - Again, because we still hold separate events at each of our branches rather than one large organization-wide event, the committees really consist of Club staff. They are all responsible for helping with the event at their respective branches, including finding sponsors.