Know-How Exchange : Other

Ok...I am not making a judgement on what you do. However, you may find that businesses don't want to be associated with the event because OTHER people might make a judgement about that business.

Try to focus on restaurants or bars or gas stations or business that are just looking for name recognition....not brand building.

Michael

michael has a point there. That could be part of it.

The other part is that you may be "begging" for the sponsorships instead of explaining the BENEFIT of sponsorship to your potential sponsors. If they can't clearly see what's in it for them, they're not likely to participate. Tell them what they'll get for their money, and why it's in their best interests to sponsor the event.

Don't dwell on what you do or what you need or on how many times you'll mention their names. Tell them how the sponsorship will actually generate sales for them. Remember, they are in the same economic environment you are. Times are tough, and they're probably watching every dollar themselves.

If you can show them how a sponsorship will benefit them, and even be more cost-effective than some of the obvious alternatives for their marketing funds, then you have a chance to get them to consider you.

I would like to ask you some very simple questions...

You stated you were a non-profit, I am going to assume it is a 501 c 3, and not a variation of any of the otehr 501's that offer non-profit status type registration with he TRS? And you are NOT a provisional Non-profit.

I am going to give you a brief , quick lesson in funding for non-profits, in particular with corporate funding. They want to know what is the return on their investment with your organization and most rarely if ever are willing to take on something that isn't tried and true and proven over and over.. although occasionally you do get one who will try something off the cuff. (This I doubt is one).

What type of community based support have you built wit the community around you, what services, ideas, educational programs and interaction have you built with them so that you have come together to support each other?

How long have you been a 501 c ? Actions in non profts, community involvement, activism, and community support for your organization count alot .

If you can give me some of the answers i can perhaps give you some solid directions to go . or whether you even have a direction to go.

Krista

Do you have a story to tell about the wonderful things you've accomplished? If so, share it with potential sponsors - they're looking to ensure that their business is in front of the right people and aligned with the right message.

Also, are you sending out a personalize request, explaining specifically how sponsoring you would help THEM? If you don't know how it can/would, then you need to do some research first.