How Do I Approach Possible Financial Sponsors For Non-Profit Event

December 16, 2018 1:41 PM

I am producing an awesome TED-like event on the current influence of Buckminster Fuller. I am looking for sponsors to cover costs, speakers honorariums, etc. I can cold call and email small businesses for product donation and event support. How would I go about asking larger businesses or non-profits for financial assistance. 1) How do I approach them (email, cold call, etc) 2) What language would I use 3) How much can I reasonably ask for?
posted by goalyeehah to Media & Arts (2 answers total)

In my experience, it works well to have a solid budget ready to go.

Some organizations will have a formal application process. Some you'll need to go through hr.
Most will want a way to write off this donation, so be ready with a receipt with your 503c info.

In my experience, companies will be more inclined to give stuff versus money which is less useful of course. But if there are things that you need donated, like catering, go for those first.
posted by k8t at 2:25 PM on December 16, 2018

Budget budget budget. Sponsors love to know what they are paying for. Help them know whether this is a donation or a marketing expense. Good to create two brochures, one for general marketing, and another with more detailed information about the perks of being a sponsor. Think about what benefits will carry on after the event and create a tier for that. Many organisations forget about post-event marketing.
posted by parmanparman at 2:29 PM on December 16, 2018